Essential Oil of the Month: Tea Tree

Edited by Lisa J. Chadderdon

Common Name: Tea Tree

Scientific Name: Melaleuca alternifolia

Description of odor: Fresh, clean, slightly camphorous

Method of extraction: Steam distillation

Where it grows: Tea Tree is native to Australia, where it grows primarily in New South Wales.

Introduction:
Tea Tree is an effective remedy for many ailments, and has been used for centuries by the aboriginal peoples of Australia. Extensive research conducted by scientists during the past ten years has resulted in very positive findings. According to Julia Lawless, author of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, Tea Tree has been shown to be effective in fighting against all three varieties of infectious organisms: bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is also a very powerful immuno-stimulant: when the body is exposed to an infectious organism, Tea Tree helps increase the body's ability to respond. Tea Tree is considered non-toxic, and very rarely is an irritant, making it suitable for nearly everyone.

Tea Tree essential oil is one of the most versatile essential oils, and is a must-have for any home medicine cabinet. If you are new to aromatherapy, Tea Tree is an excellent introduction to essential oils. (Another excellent beginner’s oil is Lavender. Click here for more information about Lavender essential oil.)

How to use Tea Tree:

• First Aid. Place one drop of Tea Tree directly onto minor cuts or scrapes before applying a bandage. Tea Tree’s anti-infectious properties help to heal the wounds and prevent infection.
• Ringworm. For a small area, simply put one drop directly onto the affected skin. For larger areas, mix 3 drops of Tea Tree with 1 Tablespoon of carrier oil (such as Sesame or Jojoba) and apply it directly onto the affected area. Repeat 2-3 times a day until the infection is gone.
• Acne. Apply sparingly to the affected area twice a day until the acne is gone.
• Disinfectant. Take an 8 oz. spray bottle, fill with water and add 25 drops of Tea Tree oil. Shake well, and spray directly onto faucets, doorknobs, bed linens, or into the air as a disinfectant. This is also an excellent spray to use in a sick room.
• Athlete’s foot. Apply Tea Tree oil directly to the affected area twice a day. Remember – one drop goes a long way. If the athlete’s foot infection is found between all of the toes, use the same dosage as above for large ringworm infections, and apply directly to the affected areas.
• Gargle. To combat sore throat, or for an effective mouthwash, put two drops of Tea Tree essential oil into a glass of water, then swish and gargle. It doesn't taste very good – but it's very effective!
• Respiratory aid. For mild coughs or chest congestion, combine 1 drop of Tea Tree oil with 1 drop of Lavender oil, and mix the combination into 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Rub the mixture onto the chest and back. Repeat every 3-4 hours as needed.
• Itchy scalp. To soothe itchy, flaky scalp, add 15 drops of Tea Tree to your favorite 8 oz. bottle of shampoo. Wash and rinse as usual.
• Sore muscles. Tea Tree helps to flush the body of uric acid build-up. Just add 2 drops of Tea Tree and 1 drop of Lavender to 1 Tablespoon of carrier oil, and rub the mixture onto any sore areas.
• Nail fungus. Add 5 drops of Tea Tree essential oil to a basin of warm water, and soak nails (hands or feet) for 10 minutes. If the problem is acute, try rubbing 1 drop directly into the nail bed.

Safety:
Tea Tree essential oil is safe for nearly everyone. We do not recommend that you use Tea Tree oil on babies, and use it only when extremely diluted for children under the age of 5. It is one the few essential oils that is safe to apply neat – or straight onto the skin -- without the use of a carrier oil for individuals over the age of 5.

As with many essential oils, Tea Tree is safe to use as long as it is not abused. Use common sense when using essential oils. When following a recipe that calls for Tea Tree oil, use the exact amount called for by the recipe – do not exceed the recommended amount. If an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately; if symptoms persist, consult your physician.

Additional Resources:

There are dozens of other Tea Tree oil recipes that help fight a myriad of maladies. Two books you can reference for additional recipes and information are The Aromatherapy Book (by Jeanne Rose) and Aromatherapy an A-Z (by Patricia Davis).

You can purchase Tea Tree essential oil right here on greenfeet.com.