Brief History of Tea Tree Oil

Melaleuca alternifolia, better known as tea tree oil, is an essential oil brought to us through the steam distillation process of some leaves from a native plant of Australia. Often hailed as a “cure all” for everything from allergies to acne, tea tree oil is a wonderful addition for many people looking for an easy solution for their medicine cabinets around the home or office.

Where does tea tree oil come from?

Most commonly, we find tea tree in the form of pure essential oil. This can be purchased in a bottle, or you will find people utilize tea tree oil in their shampoos, soaps, lotions, ointments, and creams. However you look at it, this is one substance that has gained in popularity and can be found in home across the world thanks to the medicinal benefits of just a simple touch.

What makes tea tree oil so beneficial?

Traditionally used by aboriginals in Australia, this pure essential oil was used to ward off infection, soothe and heal burns, and to disinfect skin abrasions and cuts. Today, people understand that this substance has antiseptic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties.

Here are just a few conditions where tea tree oil has proven effective:

-- Acne

-- Dandruff

-- Athlete’s foot

-- Thrush

-- Periodontal disease

-- Vaginitis

-- Sinus infections

-- Lice

-- Boils

-- Yeast infection

-- Eczema

-- Psoriasis

Is there a specific grade to look for?

There are a variety of grades when it comes to tea tree oil. Knowing which grade is best for your needs will insure you get a pure product that has been added to an appropriate carrier in some cases. The grading of this substance has been extremely controversial, but the fact is there are better grades than other.

How about side effects?

Tea tree oil, if left undiluted, can cause skin irritation, itching, blistering, and redness. In addition, you should never take tea tree oil internally. Even minute amounts can cause drowsiness, sleepiness, diarrhea, and be potentially fatal leading to nervous system depression.

In addition, some people may have a natural sensitivity to tea tree oil even from mild dermatitis contact. If this is the case, you will want to avoid the substance all together for safety concerns.

Finally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consider removing tea tree oil from your lifestyle.

Is tea tree oil safe for animals?

This is a natural pesticide which means it can be great for repelling fleas, ticks, and lice. Many people will drop a few dropped of tea tree oil on a scarf and utilize as a natural flea collar for dogs. However, it is not suggested to use tea tree oil on animals.

Even a small amount of tea tree oil can be fatal to cats. Never, under any circumstances, use tea tree oil in a household where a cat resides unless you insure the bottle is in a closed cabinet when not in use, and do not touch your cat until you have thoroughly washed your hands. In addition, you will want to insure your cat does not lick you in places where tea tree oil may be present.