The Healing Effects of Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca Alternifolia tree. It has been harvested and used for medicinal purposes as far back as the 1700’s. Tea Tree oil is unique because it has the ability to combat bacterial, fungal and viral infections. A natural infection fighter with properties that also boost the immune system, Tea Tree oil can be used to treat anything from acne to a yeast infection. Today you can find Tea Tree oil in everything from toothpaste to dog shampoo.
What makes tea tree oil so popular? It is 100% natural and does not have the side effects of some of the products that modern medicine has produced today. You can safely treat skin infections and abrasions but it should never be taken internally. Their have been some cases of allergic reactions but they have been very limited.
How can you safely use Tea Tree oil in your family medicine cabinet?
Skin Infections and Rashes
Tea Tree Oil can be applied directly to the skin to treat minor cuts, burns, infected
toenails, acne and sunburn. Apply a couple of drops directly to the infected area up to
three times a day.
Congestion and Colds
Put two drops of Tea Tree oil in a pot of steaming water. Cover your head with a towel and
inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. This is great for chest congestion, bronchitis or
fighting the common cold.
Yeast Infections
If you have never had a yeast infection, you should see your Dr. to confirm a
diagnosis before proceeding. To treat the yeast infection, put a few drops of the Tea
Tree oil into a douche and use daily until symptoms are no longer present. You may
also administer by coating a tampon with KY Jelly and then a few drops of tea tree
oil. The coating of KY Jelly will prohibit the Tea Tree oil from being absorbed into
the cotton of the tampon.
Arthritis
Putting 2-3 drops of Tea Tree oil into a warm bath is a great way to alleviate the joint
pain associated with arthritis. The joint pain can also be treated with a direct
application of the tea tree oil. If irritation occurs mix a few drops of almond oil with
the tea tree oil before applying to the skin.
Lice
Over the counter lice treatments contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. A
great alternative is to add five to ten drops into your child’s shampoo every day until
the eggs are no longer visible. In between shampooing, a few drops of oil should be
massaged into the scalp and left without rinsing. Make sure that all bedding and other
linens are cleaned as well. Add a couple of drops to tea tree oil to a sink full of water
and soak all combs, brushes and hair accessories.
Dental Hygiene
Gingivitis, bad breath and mouth ulcers can all benefit from a gargle of warm water
and a few drops of tea tree oil. Hold this in your mouth as long as possible without
swallowing. Swish around the mouth before spitting it out. Do not ingest this mixture.
