Tea tree oil comes from an Australian plant known as Melaleuca alternifolia. Traditionally, aborigines chewed on the leaves from this tree to treat colds and other ailments. A 2006 study by the American Society for Microbiology confirms that tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial properties and can be used successfully for treating a wide variety of infections. Some people may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction when using tea tree oil topically. Start with a small, diluted amount and discontinue immediately if redness or blistering occurs. Do not ingest tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is available at most natural food stores.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that causes peeling, itchy skin. At the end of the day, rinse or soak your feet in a solution of warm water and tea tree oil. Use about 1 tsp. of tea tree oil for every cup of water. You can also wash your feet or your footwear with liquid tea tree oil soap, such as Dr. Bronner's.
Nail Fungal Infections
Fungal infections on the toenails and fingernails can be treated with tea tree oil. Apply one or two drops of full-strength tea tree oil to the infected area two or three times a day until the infection clears up.
Head Lice
If you'd prefer not to use chemical insecticides to treat head lice, try using tea tree oil shampoo and conditioner. You can buy commercially prepared tea tree oil hair products, or make your own by adding about a tablespoon of pure tea tree oil to a 12 oz. bottle of your favorite shampoo. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your laundry detergent when washing bedding or clothing.
Wounds, Boils and Acne
Applying tea tree oil to wounds can help them heal faster and can ward off infection. Rinse out the wound with 1 to 1 1/2 tsp. of tea tree oil diluted in 1 cup of water, or apply a single drop of pure tea tree oil to the pad of a bandage when dressing the wound. Tea tree oil may also be applied full strength to boils or pimples. Tea tree oil soap, either in liquid or bar form, can be used by people with acne to help clear up their skin.
Yeast Infections
Vaginal yeast infections may be helped by douching with a solution of 1 cup warm water and 1 tsp. or less of tea tree oil, although tea tree oil may also cause irritation in some women. For yeast infections of the mouth, known as thrush, try using a similar solution as a mouthwash. Do not swallow tea tree oil mouthwash.
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