Tea Tree
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Tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia, SD, Cult., Australia. |
Essential oil for use in aromatherapy
Characteristics and Uses
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is derived from
the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. The tree is native to North East
Australia, where it has been used for hundreds of years for its antiseptic and
antifungal properties. The trees grow in wooded areas and on the edge of water
and swamps. The oil is extracted from the leaves of the tree through a steaming
process. Tea tree oil extract has a powerful odor similar to camphor. Despite
its name, tea tree oil is not actually from a tea tree, as the Melaleuca
alternifolia is a paperbark tree.
Tea tree oil has a variety of anecdotal and scientifically proven uses. It has been studied for its ability to inhibit external infections. The practical uses of tea tree oil range from preventing dandruff and acne, soothing bites and rashes, and treating ear infections. Indigenous Australians have been using tea tree oil for years for these very reasons. The leaves were chewed to alleviate various ailments while other parts of the plant were used for non-medicinal purposes. Today, tea tree oil extract has found its way into numerous products, from antifungal cream to toothpaste. The pure oil extract can be purchased as well, but it is generally advised to dilute the oil before using.
There have been several notable studies of tea tree oil in relation to athlete’s foot, fungal infection, dandruff, and acne. In general, tea tree oil was found to be as or more effective than more commonly used treatments. A study that compared tea tree oil with the common treatment of benzoyl peroxide for acne concluded that while tea tree oil was not as effective as peroxide, it caused far fewer side effects. In comparisons to antifungals, tea tree oil was generally found be just as effective in treating conditions.
One of the benefits of tea tree oil extract is that it is very safe when used properly. When used externally, there are very few side effects associated with tea tree oil. Possible side effects include skin rashes and other skin problems. Care should be taken with especially strong concentrations of the essential oil, as it can easily cause skin irritation. Tea tree oil should never be taken internally, as it may cause immune and nervous system damage. One should exercise caution when dealing with products such as toothpaste and mouthwash that contain tea tree oil in order to be sure they do not consume any.
Melaleuca alternifolia, M. linariifolia, M.uncintata
- Family - Myrtaceae
- Region = Australia
- Color = Brown
- Aroma = Camphoraceous
Tea tree essential oil is a powerful antiseptic, fungicide and anti-viral oil. Tea Tree is one of the few essential oils that can be used directly on the skin, without diluting. But as alway test on a small area to determine your own sensitivity to the oil. This essential oil is useful in oral hygiene, relieves gingivitis, mouth ulcers, periodontal disease and toothaches. Tea Tree essential oil can help to rid animals of fleas and humans of head and body lice. It can reduce the inflammation, irritation and reaction caused by insect bites. It is effective in the control of dandruff and other scalp problems. As a fungicide, Tea Tree Essential oil can kill the organisms that cause tinea, ringworm and candida. Tea Tree essential oil is also useful in the treatment of burns because its solvent and penetrating properties can help reduce pain and inflammation and its proven anti-microbial activity can lessen the possibility of infection.
Tea tree essential oil is good for acne, cold sores, warts, and burns. Ideal for vaporizing to kill germs. Useful cleansing agent for skin. Helps combat foot odor and athletes foot.
Source: leaves and stems
production method: steam distillation
aromatherapy class: energizing, toning,traditional use: insect repellent, antiseptic
Perfume Note=Top
Blends with: lavandin, lavender, clary sage, rosemary, geranium, marjoram, clove, nutmeg
Main constituents:- Terpinene-4-ol, cineol, pinene, terpenes, cymene.
Precaution = mild skin irritant
Note: This information is a summary of data from books and articles by various authors. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.
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