Tea Tree Oil Benefits

Malaleuca Oil, commonly known as tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the tree called Malaleuca alternifolia that can be found in New South Wales and Southeast Queensland in Australia. Tea tree oil is generally used in skin washes and cosmetics, but has also been proved to treat various medical conditions. You should bear in mind that this oil must not be taken by mouth because it’s toxic. However, it can be used in numerous other ways.

Heals Minor Cuts and Abrasions

If you have a minor wound or cut, you should first clean the area very well and then apply 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil directly on the bruise. If the cut is bigger, you can dab a cotton ball in a few drops of oil and then bandage it for a better effect. The tea tree oil is antibacterial and antimicrobial and will speed up the healing process, preventing any bacterial infection.

Treats Allergies

Even though tea tree oil cannot be taken orally, it can still be used topically by simply massaging it into the abdomen, the feet’s reflex points or chest. It has antiviral and even expectorant properties and can kill viruses. At the same time, its active compounds will penetrate the skin to cure allergies and strengthen the immune system.

Acne Treatment

This is probably the most common use of tea tree oil. Numerous anti-acne creams and washes contain this wonderful oil simply because it has the capability of treating this condition. Besides being antimicrobial and antibacterial, it is also cicatrizing, diminishing and neutralizing the scar marks that are often caused by acne. You can add 1 or 2 drops of tea tree oil to your regular cream or, for an even better result, you can apply the oil directly on the acne breakouts. If you’re using a face wash, you can add up to 40 drops of tea tree oil in it to see the annoying acne disappear.

Reduces the Arthritis Symptoms

Arthritis is often accompanied by pain, triggered by swelling and inflammation. To reduce pain, you can make a mixture of grapeseed (2 ounces) and tea tree oil (20 drops) and massage it into the affected area. Repeat the procedure up to three times per day.

Treats Bladder Infections

Add up to 15 drops of tea tree oil to a shallow bath and then sit in that water for up to 5 minutes. Repeat two times per day for a better effect. The antibacterial properties of the tea tree oil will be extremely useful for this condition.

Treats Bronchitis

Boil a pan of water and then add up to 2 drops of tea tree oil in that water. Put your face over the pan and cover your head with a towel so that you can inhale the steam. Another solution would be to massage a few drops of tea tree oil on your chest. Tea tree oil is a powerful expectorant and it will immediately offer you relief.

Tea tree oil can also be used externally to treat and heal burns, chicken pox, cold sores, dandruff, cough, dermatitis, eczema, flea bites, nail fungus, sinusitis or sun burns.