Tea tree essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree of the myrtle family.
Historically, the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia were used to heal cuts, wounds, and skin infections.
Today, tea tree essential oil is commonly used to help support the body when dealing with acne, allergies, aneurysm, bacterial infections, boils, candida, canker sores, cavities, chicken pox, cold sores, cuts, dermatitis, ear infection, gum disease, hepatitis, infection, inflammation, lice, mumps, pink eye, rashes, ringworm, shock, sore throat, sunburn, tonsillitis, viral infections, warts, and more.
In French medicine, tea tree is commonly used to help with athlete’s foot, bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea, flu, gum disease, and sore throat.
Aromatically, tea tree is said to promote cleansing and purity.
Tea tree is known to be analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, strongly antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, digestive, expectorant, immune stimulant, insecticidal, neurotonic, and tissue regenerative.
How have you used tea tree essential oil? Feel free to comment below!
Source: Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2014 edition, p 96.