Oil from the tea tree, known by the botanical name Melaleuca alternifolia, has antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. The tree grows wild in Australia, and is now cultivated extensively as a consumer product ingredient. Tea tree oil should never be consumed internally, as it is a component of liquid or bar soap for external use. Tea tree oil imparts a crisp, clean scent and soothes the skin with its natural healing properties.
Body Odor
Tea tree oil soap can help beat body odor. Offensive body odor is caused by bacteria on the skin and clothes, according to the Health Services at Columbia University. Antibacterial soaps can help resolve body odor, as can tea tree oil soap, which is antimicrobial. Bathing regularly with tea tree oil soap can diminish the bacteria that lead to body odor. The tea tree oil in soap also has a fresh, invigorating, clean scent, according to The Body Shop, a leading purveyor of natural body care products. Liquid tea tree oil soap can also be used as a shampoo as well as for adding a fresh scent to laundry.
Blemishes
Tea tree oil soap can clear up acne, helping to create naturally glowing smooth skin. Tea tree oil helps control blemishes without being overly drying for the skin, according to The Body Shop, As a natural antiseptic, tea tree oil soap helps heal acne and other skin ailments. Tea tree oil reduces bacteria and inflammation, improving the appearance of mild to moderate acne with fewer side effects---such as stinging, burning and dryness---than those caused by commercial benzoyl peroxide acne preparations.
Infections
Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that helps heal cuts and bruises and is also effective against more serious infections, states the organic soap manufacturer Dr. Bronner's website. According to the Wisconsin State Division of Public Health Guidelines for Clinical Management and Control of Transmission of Community-Associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, or CA-MRSA, daily bathing or showering with tea tree oil body products and shampoo is an effective method of decolonizing a person carrying CA-MRSA. The Wisconsin Division of Public Health further notes that treatment with tea tree oil products has the benefit of being less harsh on patients' skin than chemically based antibacterial agents.
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