Tea tree oil has been known for centuries for its antibiotic properties. It is a popular remedy for acne and athlete’s foot, but can also be used against colds.

Tea tree oil It can be applied directly to the skin, or as part of mixtures in creams or shampoos. We explain what it helps against and how you can use it correctly.

The origin of tea tree oil

Natural essential oil of tea tree It is obtained from the leaves and twigs of the tree scientifically named Melaleuca alternifolia by steam distillation. The leaves are harvested in the Australian summer, that is, between November and June.

The aborigines, The indigenous people of Australia have used the healing properties of tea tree oil for many generations. When the botanist Joseph Banks arrived in Australia around 1770 with the navigator James Cook, he observed how the indigenous people used it to heal wounds and skin inflammations and brought it to Europe.

properties of tea tree oil, what is it for?

The spectrum of effects of Australian tea tree oil is very broad. The following active ingredients are responsible for the numerous positive properties of tea tree oil:

• The monoterpenes They have analgesic, stimulating and anti-inflammatory effects. The most abundant is terpinene-4-ol, which has regenerating, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects.
• In addition to terpinen-4-ol, tea tree oil also contains other terpene compounds, such as cineole, terpinolene and alpha-terpineol, which also have beneficial properties.
• Monoterpene oxide 1.8 cineole It has a liquefaction effect and promotes the secretion and expectoration of mucus.
• The sesquiterpenes They are responsible for good skin tolerance.

Because of these active ingredients, tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for inflammation, acne, psoriasis, nail fungus, and colds. Since the essential oil fights bacteria, viruses and fungi, it is recognized as a natural antibiotic.

Tea tree oil for warts

Tea tree oil has proven its effectiveness against warts. The strong antiviral properties can reduce its growth. It can also dry them out and cause them to fall.

Tea tree oil also prevents warts from becoming infected and speeds up the healing process. The oil can also relieve pain and itching, which are often associated with warts. For wart treatment, you can apply tea tree oil directly to the affected area of ​​skin.

You can follow the following procedure:

Tea tree oil can be an effective treatment for warts due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are the steps to use tea tree oil to treat warts:

1. Wash the affected area with warm water and mild soap to clean the skin.

2. Apply a small amount of tea tree oil directly to the wart, using a cotton swab or applicator swab.

3. Cover the wart with a bandage to prevent the tea tree oil from evaporating quickly and increase its effectiveness.

4. Repeat this process 2 times a day, for at least 2 weeks or until the wart disappears.

It is important to note that tea tree oil can be irritating to some people, especially if applied to sensitive areas of skin, such as the face or genitals. If you experience irritation, redness or itching, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Tea Tree Oil for Athlete’s Foot and Nail Fungus

Thanks to its antifungal effect, tea tree oil has proven to be an effective weapon against athlete’s foot and nail fungus, as it inhibits fungal growth.

To treat athlete’s foot:

1. Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap to clean the skin.

2. Dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel and make sure they are completely dry before continuing.

3. Apply a small amount of tea tree oil directly to the affected areas, using a cotton swab or applicator swab.

4. Gently massage the oil into your skin for a few minutes to help it absorb.

5. Let the oil dry completely before putting on socks or shoes.

6. Repeat this process 2 times a day, for at least 2 weeks or until symptoms disappear completely.

You can also do a foot bath: put a maximum of 5 drops in a tub of warm water and keep your feet in the footbath for about 15 minutes.

To treat nail fungus:

Follow the same procedure as to treat athlete’s foot, but applying the oil to the affected nails.

Tea tree oil for colds

Tea tree oil is widely used as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory ailments. It can help relieve symptoms such as a sore throat by soothing the mucous membrane and reducing inflammation. Tea tree oil contains antimicrobial properties that help fight bacteria and viruses.

Aromatherapist Annabelle Stieger recommends tea tree oil for colds, for example as a mouthwash and gargle:

1. Add 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil to a small glass of warm water. It is important not to exceed the recommended amount of tea tree oil, as it can be irritating to the throat and mouth.

2. Stir the water so that the tea tree oil disperses in the water.

3. Take a sip of the solution and gargle for 30 seconds, making sure the liquid reaches the back of your throat.

4. Spit out the liquid and repeat the process until you finish the contents of the glass.

5. Wash your mouth with fresh water to rinse out the taste and avoid irritation.

6. Repeat this process 2 or 3 times a day, or as needed to relieve sore throat symptoms.

It is important to note that tea tree oil should not be ingested, as it can be toxic in large quantities. If you experience any type of irritation or adverse reaction, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Inhalation is not entirely advisable since there are oils that work better such as Eucalyptus radiata. Asthmatics should be careful when handling these oils and should consult a doctor or aromatherapist before using them.

Also You can make a balm to apply to the chest at night using coconut oil to which about 3 drops of tea tree oil are added. It can also be applied to the back.

Can you use tea tree oil on your genitals?

Not recommended Apply tea tree oil directly to the genitals or sensitive areas of the body without diluting it properly.

Tea tree oil is a concentrated essential oil that can be irritating to the skin and cause sensitivity or adverse reactions in these sensitive areas. Also, apply undiluted tea tree oil to the genitals. can alter the natural balance of the vaginal flora and cause infections or irritations.

If you want to use tea tree oil to treat a genital condition, you may want to talk to a doctor for specific recommendations and how to apply it safely. In general, it is recommended dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil, before applying it to your skin.

It is also recommended to test a small area of ​​skin (on the inside of the elbow, for example) before applying tea tree oil to a larger area to make sure there are no adverse reactions.

Can you ingest tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil It is not suitable for internal use. The intake of essential oils is not recommended, therefore, taking the oil is not up for discussion.

What side effects can tea tree oil have?

When used correctly, the risk of side effects from tea tree oil is very low. It is important that do not use it on open wounds and avoid contact with your eyes.

Also You should perform a tolerance test before use, as tea tree oil can trigger allergies. To do this, apply a drop to the inside of your arm. If there are no side effects such as skin redness after an hour, you can assume that you tolerate the tea tree oil.

However, You must wait 24 hours to rule out an allergy. The allergy only develops through frequent or prolonged contact with the essential oil and is noticeable through severe redness.

Buy tea tree oil

When purchasing, you should trust pure (without additives) and organic tea tree oil. There are many brands available in the market.