There are a variety of natural methods available for treating infection, and one of the very best of them is tea tree oil, an essential oil extracted from the leaves of a plant known scientifically as melaleuca alternifolia – which is native to Australia, New South Wales in particular. Tea tree oil has many valuable properties such as antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic and antifungal. In fact, the antibacterial function of tea tree oil is so effective, it has been observed eliminating severe staph infections such as MRSA.
Historically, of course, the use of tea tree oil for medicinal purposes is attributed to the aborigines who used it for healing wounds and burns. The leaves were crushed, applied to the area(s) in need of treatment, and held in place with mud.
Tea tree oil in undiluted form is quite strong, and can be irritating to those with sensitive skin, so it’s best to perform a patch test in a small area prior to using it on larger areas. For those who do experience irritation, the oil is also effective when prepared in a ratio of 5 parts tea tree oil to 95 parts water. Tea tree oil should never be taken internally, in any amount, for any reason.
Here are a number of the various ways tea tree oil can be used for natural health treatments.
Blemishes
Tea tree oil kills the bacteria in skin which causes acne. Apply the oil topically to affected areas. After performing the patch test, you may decide to dilute it in water as directed above, or, you also have the option of mixing it with pure aloe vera gel – about two drops of oil per one ounce of gel.
Boils and Carbuncles
If your skin can tolerate the undiluted tea tree oil, it’s best for this purpose to use it at full strength, if not, go ahead and use the dilute formula, applying directly to the problem spots(s) with a cotton ball or swab at least twice a day until clear. Make sure to dispose of the used implements when you’ve completed each treatment, as these type of skin problems contain infection that can be spread to healthy skin.
Athlete’s Foot and Toenail Fungus
Once each morning and each night, again, using full strength oil if possible, apply to the affected area(s) using a cotton ball. Results are usually evident within a weeks time. For continued therapy and prevention, apply tea tree oil diluted in pure aloe vera gel (as outlined above) to the feet after each shower.
Oral Problems
Such as thrush due to candida and periodontal disease. Dilute one tablespoon of tea tree oil in 12 ounces of water. Use as a mouth rinse three times per day. In addition, the oil can be applied a drop at a time to your toothbrush and applied directly to the teeth after brushing, but before rinsing with clear water.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Since areas of the skin affected with these conditions will be extremely sensitive, do not attempt to apply tea tree oil undiluted. Use a carrier oil such as olive or almond oil, and begin with 5 drops of tea tree oil per two tablespoons of carrier oil, and increase up to 10 drops per, as tolerated when applied directly to the affected area(s).
Warts
If warts are located on the feet it’s typically okay to go ahead and use the tea tree oil full strength as skin on the feet tends to be thicker and less sensitive. For all other areas, use either water or pure aloe vera gel and tea tree oil in a 50/50 solution. Adjust the strength if necessary according to the skins sensitivity.
Insect Bites
Apply to the bite full strength using a cotton swab. Tea tree oil is also a very effective insect repellent. Mix with water or pure aloe vera gel as described above and apply to exposed areas of the skin.
Arthritis and other Body Aches
Use tea tree oil in the bath to soak painful muscles and joints due to Arthritis, or any form of stress-related aches and pains. It is also effective when massaged directly into the painful areas daily, as needed. An added benefit is tea tree oil’s natural effectiveness at eliminating body odor.
This list is just a brief description of several ways tea tree oil can be useful. There are many books and additional resources that outline ways to take advantage of the healing properties of this important natural remedy. Make sure to keep a supply on hand in your home so it will be available to you if needed.
Preparing for and planning a wedding can be stressful, but don’t let the stress take away the potential fun and excitement. Visit Weddingcakes.org.uk for great articles – about more than just wedding cakes, but plenty of those if that’s what you’re seeking!
