Tea Tree Essential Oil (10 ml)
Tea Tree's Story
Tea Tree has a “can do “ attitude and is one of the most versatile of all oils. Even though there are very few things that Tea Tree will have difficulty doing, his expertise lies in cleanliness and keeping things spick and span- which probably explains his shining success as a nurse.
His house is always shining and the air in there is always brimming with freshness. His help in the cleanliness department of things is so wanted that one might wonder whether Tea Tree has a side business in the form of a cleaning service. But don’t think his abilities stop here; as a true entrepreneur, Tea Tree has also opened a workshop where he teaches interested folks about staying safe from all kinds of microbes, while also giving them a little pep-talk against powerlessness. A very niche business, we would say, but one that works nonetheless. Despite his first impression as somewhat of a germaphobe obsessed with order, Tea Tree is actually quite a fun character to be around- just ask his friend Lavender; she thinks Tea Tree is a total softie. Don’t say we told you!
Aroma
Fresh, herbaceous, sharp and medicinal
Clinical Applications
Immunostimulant: Tea Tree has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-allergy properties. All of these combine to provide solid immune system support. When diffused in an aerosol form, it eliminates a wide range of microorganisms such as dermatophytes and Candida species (Lang and Buchbauer 2012) and Staphylococcus species including MRSA (Edward-Jones et al. (2004). It may be useful in treating influenza (Garozzo et al. 2009). Tea Tree offers the strongest actions against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections as compared to all other oils.
Respiratory: Tea Tree is very effective for alleviating all types of respiratory conditions including those related to allergies. Steam inhalation with Tea Tree works very well to ease congestion. Several components work together to give Tea Tree its powerful decongestant, expectorant, and anti-infectious properties. 1,8 cineol has an expectorant effect (Ulmer and Schott 1991 cited by Bowles 2003). Terpinen-4-ol has anti-inflammatory properties (Lahlou et al. 2003) and also helps alleviate allergies by suppressing histamine release and cytokine production (Brand et al.2002; Koh et al. 2002).
Oral care: Tea Tree has analgesic and anti-infectious actions. Brushing your teeth with toothpaste with a small drop of Tea Tree kills bacteria preventing gum disease and oral candidiasis, and keeping the mouth and teeth clean and healthy. It also helps relieve pain.
Skincare: Tea Tree’s powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties (Enshaieh et al. 2007) make it an excellent ally in the fight against acne and pimple. Topical application with a dilution of up to 5% Tea Tree in a cream or gel helps clear acne and pimples. Tea Tree contains terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol, and α-pinene, which are active against S. epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Propionibacterium acnes (Sinah et al. 2014). Tea Tree’s anti-fungal properties are boosted when blended with other anti-fungal oils such as Lavender.
Safety & Dilution
Maximum topical use dilution: 15% ( 15 drops in 1 tbsp carrier like coconut, olive oil, lotion etc). See here DILUTION GUIDELINES according to age or ailment.
Tea Tree is largely non-toxic, but may cause sensitization when oxidized.
Discontinue in case of any skin irritation. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears and sensitive areas.
Keep out of reach of children. Do not apply on the skin of children younger than 2 years old. If pregnant, nursing or under medical care please consult physician. Do not use internally, unless directed by a licensed aromatherapist or physician.
Use with caution around pets. When diffusing in the room make sure the door is open so that the animal can leave in case of discomfort.
Shelf Life & Storage
Shelf Life: 3 years
We recommend storing oils in a cool, dark and dry area away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap closed tightly to avoid oxygen exposure. Oils that are past expiry date should not be used for therapeutic purpose but they can still be used for cleaning.
More Information
Latin Name: Melaleuca alternifolia
Botanical Family: Myrtaceae
Main chemical constituents: Terpinen-4-ol, Y-terpinene, 1,8 cineole
Country: Australia
Extraction Method: Steam-distilled
Plant part used: Leaves
Culture: Organic
Aromatic note: Middle-Top