Collection: Tea Tree Essential Oil

 Tea tree essential oil (also known as melaleuca oil) is steam-distilled from the leaves of the tea tree—Melaleuca alternifolia—and is well-known for its bright and strong camphoraceous aroma that is reminiscent of fresh-cut wood and eucalyptus. 

Tea tree oil has a powerful antiseptic action, and has long been used in Australia for home remedies and medicinal applications.

Properties

 The main component of tea tree essential oil is terpinen-4-ol, which gives the oil its ability to soothe stings and bites. Also present are pinene, myrcene, sabinene, terpinene, a-phellandrene, 1,8-cineole, limonene, terpinolene, p-cymene, a-terpineol and linalool.

These contribute to tea tree essential oil's many properties, which include antiseptic, antimicrobial,  balsamic, antiviral,  cicatrisant, bactericide,  fungicide, expectorant, stimulant, insecticide and sudorific.

How to use tea tree essential oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most versatile and useful essential oils available, and as such has many applications—topical, via a diffuser, and in soap products.

Topical application

Blend one part tea tree oil with nine parts carrier oil to create a therapeutic massage oil. Apply the blend to sore muscles for a stimulating massage, or apply to the chest to help with coughs and colds.

Apply neat to clean wounds and help clear up fungal infections such as athlete's foot. (Please consult a medical professional before applying undiluted oil directly to the skin.)

In a diffuser

Cleanse the air by adding 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to a diffuser. It will help fight colds, bronchitis and sinusitis. 

In soap products

Creates a powerful therapeutic soap that will help clear up bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections.

Essential Oils are highly concentrated and must be used with care.

Do not apply undiluted. Not to be taken internally.

Do not use tea tree essential oil for treating medical conditions without first speaking to a medical professional.