Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Main Facts about Tea tree

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Melaleuca alternifolia is a small tree with a bushy crown and whitish, papery bark, native to Australia. It grows along streams and on swampy flats. It is the primary species for commercial production of an essential oil, Tea tree oil (melaleuca oil), a topical antibacterial. Tea tree oil has been long valued for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

Using Tea tree

Tea tree oil is used to treat acne and blemishes, heal and soothe sunburns, insect bites, works as an antiseptic on small cuts. It helps skin infections to heal naturally. Tea tree oil has been found effective as a remedy for warts. It relieves itchiness from rashes as well as helps reduce rashes, treats psoriasis and other skin conditions. To relieve asthma or other breathing conditions add a few drops of the oil to a humidifier. Tea tree oil is helpful in lessening chest and head congestion, stuffy nose, and other symptoms of colds and flu, especially when used in steam inhalation. Just add a few drops to a steaming bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the fumes for five to 10 minutes. Tea tree oil is a natural cure for bad breath, halitosis. It can be used in a homemade toothpaste recipe. To relieve earache mix 1 drop of Tea tree oil with 1 tsp olive oil, drop mixture into the ear and then remove by tilting head. Also famous for its antifungal property it is used to cures toenail fungus and Athlete’s foot as well as for cuticle care and relief from cracked nails in manicures and pedicures. Tea tree oil is a naturally-effective, chemical-free way to help reduce odor. It is used as laundry freshener (try adding a few drops in your washing machine to scent your clothes) and as homemade natural deodorant. Adding a few drops of the Tea tree oil to your shampoo will prevent lice and make your hair perfectly clean. Tea tree oil can be used as an all-purpose cleaner in your house (fill a spray bottle with water and add 1-2 tsp of Tea tree oil). With a mix of apple cider vinegar and Tea tree oil you can clean mold. A few drops of the oil will keep fleas away from house pets. It can help removing ticks from your skin.

Tea tree is a remedy for: Cold and flu

Caution!

May cause skin irritation. Do not use in undiluted form. Use it in gel, cream, or lotion instead. Not for internal use.

Cooking with Tea tree

Not for internal use.
Black Tea
Thyme (wild)