The leaf of the tea, or ti, tree has a long history of beneficial use by the indigenous people of Australia. Tea tree oil is obtained by steam distillation of its leaves.
The aroma of the distilled oil from an Australian tea tree is warm, spicy, medicinal and volatile. Thus, it is sometimes used to scent spicy colognes and aftershaves.
Ti tree oil blends well with lavender, rosemary and nutmeg oils. And it’s aromatherapy benefits include cleansing, purifying and uplifting.
Australian tea tree oil is reported to have antiseptic properties and has been used traditionally to prevent and treat skin infections and conditions, such as:
- acne
- bites
- burns
- thrush
- nail fungus
- athlete’s foot
- vaginal infections
- staph skin infections
- bacterial skin infections
- poison ivy/oak itch relief
Numerous laboratory studies have demonstrated benefiting antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil. However, there is a lack of definitive evidence for using tea tree oil as treatment for any of these conditions.
When applied to the skin, tea tree oil is can be mildly irritating and has been associated with the development of allergic contact dermatitis, which may cause:
- rash
- itching
- redness
- blistering
Rub a bit on your skin to discover your skin’s reaction. If you have a pre-existing skin condition, such as eczema or severe acne, be extra careful.
Ingesting tea tree oil has the potential to cause side effects, like:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- lethargy
- confusion
- bad breath
- severe rash
- drowsiness
- abdominal pain
- unpleasant taste
- burning sensation
- walking difficulties
- reduced immune system function
Tea tree oil is highly concentrated, and should be used topically sparingly.