Tea tree oil also known as melaleuca oil is one of the essential oils that has umpteen health benefits. Imbued with powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties, this oil is extremely useful in preventing infections, bacterial and fungal skin conditions and also helps in wound healing.

Unlike, its name, tea tree oil is not obtained from tea leaves, instead extracted by a steam distillation method from the leaves of the tea tree which goes by the botanical name Melaleuca alternifolia. Although the tea tree is native to Australia, South-east Queensland and Northeast coast of New South Wales, they are also commercially grown all over the world.

Coined as the ‘knight in shining armour’, the essential oil acts as a shield against all kinds of bacterial, fungal and other microbial infections including acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis and even insect bites and stings.

The holistic science of ayurveda strongly advocates the use of this essential oil as a form of traditional remedy from the primeval times. The tea tree oil effectively balances all the Tridoshas i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha Doshas and holds high significance in soothing the body and uplifting the overall health of an individual.
Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta And Kapha Doshas

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5 Health Benefits Of Using Tea Tree Oil

Augments Skin Health

Being a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential properties like anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, tea tree oil effectively reduces skin inflammation, treats skin infections like acne, pimple, dermatitis, itching and promotes overall skin health. It also facilitates wound healing, stimulates the growth of new cells and effectively reduces scars and marks by removing dead skin cells from the body.
Also Read: Top 5 Essential Oils To Revamp Your Skin Health

Apply 1-2 drops of tea tree oil mixed with any other essential oil using a moistened cotton, on the wounds and scars to speed up wound healing and obtain a spotless skin.

Boosts Immunity and Prevents Infections

The potent anti-microbial properties of tea tree oil help to thwart off infections and act as a protective shield by strengthening the body’s immune system. The bio-active components in this oil boost immunity and reduce the risk of various bacterial and fungal infections like psoriasis, bedsores, herpes, genito-urinary infections, cystitis, vaginal thrush, insect bites, abscess, diaper rashes, cold sores, deep wounds, ear infections and cough and cold symptoms.

Prevents Dandruff and Lice

The most common cause of dandruff is the dry scalp, humidity in the air and lack of hygiene which eventually leads to itching and flaking. The potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of tea tree oil help fight against dandruff and head lice. Also having a slightly high specific gravity, it seeps deep into the scalp and prevents dry scalp and itching.

Massage 1-2 drops of tea tree oil mixed with coconut or almond oil before going to bed to achieve best results. 

Beneficial For Respiratory Disorders

The abundance of anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects of tea tree oil make it an extremely valuable component for respiratory health. Being a potent expectorant, it helps clear mucous and phlegm deposits in the nasal passage, provides relief from a sore throat, chest congestion and also soothes a dry, irritated throat. It also serves as a potent remedy for asthma, bronchitis, sinus, headache, tuberculosis and pharyngitis.

Promotes Oral Health

Imbued with strong anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties, tea tree oil holds high significance in treating inflammatory oral conditions like toothache, gingivitis, bad breath, etc. It removes germs from the gum and prevents gum infection and tooth decay.

Spectacular Life Hacks Using Tea Tree Oil

• Infuse 10-15 drops of tea tree oil in a glass of water to create a mouthwash solution that kills bacteria while freshening your breath.
• Combine 2 drops of tea tree oil in a cup of luke-warm water and gargle with it to get relief from sore throat and inflammation.
• Concoct a mixture of 15 drops of tea tree oil, 10 drops of citronella essential oil, 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel and water. Spray the solution before going out or while staying outdoors to ward off mosquitoes, fleas and other insects and pests.
• Soak your feet in a mixture of warm water, tea tree oil, lavender essential oil and a tbsp of bath salt of choice for 15 minutes, twice a day to get rid of bad foot odour.
• Lubricate a tampon with a mixture of ½ tbsp of coconut oil, and 2 drops of tea tree oil to treat a yeast infection naturally at home.

Conclusion

The host of essential bioactive components present in tea tree oil is extremely beneficial for the body. Regular use of this oil benefits one by evading infections, preventing dandruff and lice, preventing cough and flu and also relieving stress.