Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is an essential oil that is highly concentrated and very versatile. It can be diluted and used as an astringent to zap pimples on the face or anywhere on the body or used as a de facto room freshener, among many other uses.
Skin care
Tea tree is antibacterial and is found in many commercial shampoos, hair conditioners, soaps, skin creams and in household wares such as room spray or in sachets. For skin care, it can be used neat in very small quantities for insect bites to reduce swelling and to prevent infection. Dab it under arms as an underarm deodorant: you won't get white marks on your clothes or smell perfumey. Dilute it to make a foot bath to help control athlete's foot. Don't moisturize your feet with it, as tea tree oil is drying used alone.
Dental Care
Tea tree oil can also be used for dental care. Dilute 1 part oil to 5 parts water for a mouth wash. It can also be used for healthy gums--dip clean toothpicks in tea tree oil and use as normal. The gum stimulation is good for preventing gingivitis and the antiseptic qualities can help reduce plaque (along with regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist). Do not swallow tea tree oil--it is not meant for internal use.
Room Spray
Fresh and deodorize rooms, closets or clothes by diluting tea tree oil, one part to five parts distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray the perimeter of the room, in empty dresser drawers or lightly spray garments between laundering (as when traveling when you don't have time to find a laundromat or dry cleaners).
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