Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiviral, Cough relief (inhaled)
Terpenoids (terpinen-4-ol), Essential oil
This Site is for Educational Use Only: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am not a licensed medical professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any medicinal plants, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
Tea tree oil was a household staple at my Nana's house. Tiny cut? Tea tree. Bug bite? Tea tree. Any perceived threat to skin integrity whatsoever? She was already reaching for the bottle. It would dry our skin out something fierce but in her mind that was a small price to pay. She was right too... I suppose. I now carry tea tree oil in my purse. I am becoming her. Nobody tell her.
Tea tree has a long history in Aboriginal Australian medicine, where the leaves were crushed and inhaled or infused to treat infections. It's both antifungal and antiseptic, which covers a impressive range of everyday skin situations. Bug bites, small cuts, acne (used sparingly! unlike my Nana), and fungal issues are all fair game. For acne specifically, a little goes a long way and the keyword is sparingly. It will dry your skin barrier out if you go overboard, and a compromised skin barrier is its own problem you don't need.
Some people use it for ear infections by dabbing a diluted amount on a cotton ball and holding it near the ear rather than putting anything directly inside. There are also diluted preparations and even suppositories used for vaginal infections like thrush. For anything in that territory please dilute properly and be smart about it. Your girl is sensitive down there and deserves careful treatment accordingly.
Safety note: Tea tree oil cannot be taken internally. Contact dermatitis is possible, especially in concentrated amounts, so always dilute and patch test first. More is not more with this one.
Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1360273/
Tea tree oil https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-tea-tree-oil/art-20364246
Tea Tree Oil https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tea-tree-oil
Herbal Remedies by Andrew Chevallier
Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No provider-patient relationship is created by use of this site. The author makes no representations regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and assumes no liability for any adverse effects resulting from the use of plants or remedies described herein.
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