Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea Tree Essential Oil: Melaleuca Alternafolia

This oil has a really strong, pungent, almost antiseptic type of aroma. It has centuries of historical use in herbal remedies mainly by the Australian Indigenous Aboriginal population. Arthur Penfold brought it to a more global recognition in the 1920s.  He was interested in investigating the antiseptic properties.

This oil has been said to clear the mind, and to be purifying and bracing. It can also be used on hair to improve scalp health.

In skin care it blends beautifully with lavender or other florals which can negate the harshness of the straight tea tree while still creating an effective blend for soothing the skin or foot soaks.

Tea tree essential oil  is commonly blended with oils such as Peppermint, Eucalyptus or Rosemary to create a clean scented environment which may be helpful with respiratory distress associated with coughs and colds.

It can be sensitising so should be used in limited amounts and, as it is toxic if ingested, kept far out of reach of pets and children. This oil can also be used as an effective insect repellent. Therefore this oil is a good all rounder to keep in the home first aid kit.

Never ingest or apply undiluted essential oils to the skin.