Steam distilling of the Melaleuca alternifolia leaves produces tea tree oil. This essential oil is a potential home remedy for several conditions. Tea tree oil must only be applied topically, however, since it is toxic when ingested. Tea tree oil also is useful for various cleaning purposes, because it deodorizes and disinfects.
Healing Skin Problems
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, as explained by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). The oil must be diluted before applying to skin, and even then some people find it causes skin irritation. Possible health benefits of tea tree oil include healing acne, relieving irritation and itching from insect stings and bites and improving symptoms of genital herpes. Tea tree oil also may heal vaginal infections, athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and fungal nail infection (onychomycosis). Additionally, tea tree oil preparations may eliminate lice infestations. The NIH notes that research on tea tree oil benefits for any health condition is inconclusive.
Oral Uses
A diluted form of tea tree oil can be used as a mouthwash for certain conditions, although research is inconclusive for these purposes as well, according to the NIH. Tea tree oil may be useful for treating a yeast infection of the mouth (thrush), dental plaque, irritated gums (gingivitis) and bad breath. When using tea tree oil as a mouthwash, do not swallow any of it.
Household Cleaning
Tea tree oil also is useful for various types of cleaning, as explained by the FGB Natural Products website. Adding a small amount of tea tree oil to warm water and detergent boosts cleaning power for floors, countertops and other hard surfaces, as it removes bacteria and odors. Tea tree oil also is useful for deodorizing toilets and trash containers. A mix of several drops of tea tree oil with white vinegar can remove and prevent mold and mildew when sprayed onto surfaces.
Laundry Use
Tea tree oil also is beneficial for washing clothes, towels, sheets and more. The FGB Natural Products website recommends adding five drops of tea tree oil to the rinse cycle to help disinfect and freshen your laundry.
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