Acne can be embarrassing, especially when you’re already out of your teenager years. If you’re still struggling with acne breakouts and those over-the-counter treatments just aren’t working, tea tree oil might be the essential oil for you. The secret to tea tree oil’s healing properties are chemicals called terpenoids, which provide its natural anti-fungal, antiviral, antibacterial effects. Tea tree oil can also be used for yeast infection, canker sores, and more!
How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Acne
Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial essential oil that can be used as a spot treatment for acne blemishes. Tea tree oil can be used ‘neat’ (undiluted) on the skin or with a carrier oil such as vitamin E to avoid drying. For best results, wash face thoroughly with a mild soap, adding a bit of baking soda for exfoliation. Rinse completely and add tea tree oil directly to acne blemishes and all over problem areas. Tea tree oil not only treats the acne you have but will prevent new blemishes from forming!
More Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
The health benefits of tea tree oil don’t stop at healing acne. Its antiviral benefits also make it a versatile oil to treat common health problems.
- Treats Chronic Yeast Infection
Chronic yeast infection is a common problem for many women. The good news is you can use tea tree oil for yeast infection! To do this, you’ll need organic tampons, plain organic yogurt, and tea tree oil. Soak the tampon in 2-3 tablespoons of yogurt, add 2-4 drops of tea tree oil, and insert. Leave in overnight and remove in the morning. Use for 7-10 days or until infection clears.
- Soothes Irritated Gum Tissue
If you have sensitive gums or gingivitis, tea tree oil makes a great mouthwash. Add 5-10 drops of pure tea tree oil to 4 ounces of room-temperature water and swish for one minute. Do this twice per day to treat irritated gum tissue and fight inflammation.
- Eases Cold and Allergy Congestion
Cold and allergy congestion can make breathing difficult. To combat this, place 5-10 drops of tea tree oil in a large pot of water. Boil the water, remove from heat, and allow to cool for two minutes. Place the pot on a heat-resistant surface and drape a towel over your head and the pot, creating a sauna environment for your head. Breathe in deeply and allow the vapors to open up your congested chest and nose. The natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil make it a go-to natural remedy for cold and allergy congestion!
- Eliminates Canker Sores
People with overactive immune systems often fall prey to painful canker sores on the insides of their mouth. To treat them, use tea tree oil diluted with a carrier oil directly on swollen and irritated tissue. Alternatively, you can also use a tea tree oil mouthwash. Place 5-10 drops of tea tree oil in a 4-ounce glass of warm water and rinse. Add ½ teaspoon of sea salt for a more potent drying and healing effect.
- Treats Head Lice
School is back in session and this means your child may bring home more than just homework. That’s right, head lice. To treat head lice naturally, turn to tea tree oil. You can make a shampoo at home that will repel and kill the lice just as effectively as a store-bought pesticide. You’ll need castile soap, olive oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. Mix a small amount of castile soap and olive oil with one teaspoon each of tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil and massage into hair. Place a shower cap on your child’s head and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly until all oil is removed. Use for 7-10 days.
- Kills Bad Breath
Chronic halitosis can be a thing of the past with tea tree oil. You can add a few drops to your favorite toothpaste or use it as a mouthwash twice per day. Tip: When brushing, always remember to get your tongue as that is where most bad-breath germs lie!
- Fights Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an embarrassing problem for many people. If you’ve been hiding your feet due to this stubborn fungus, let tea tree oil come to your rescue! For best results, massage pure tea tree oil directly on infected toes 2-3 times per day. The essential oil can be combined with coconut oil for an anti-viral double impact and to keep feet from drying out.
- Eases Insect Bite Itch
For the pain and inflammation of insect bites, place tea tree oil directly on the affected area. This essential oil is a must-have for those long hikes and weekend camping trips!
Tea Tree Oil Contraindications
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use tea tree oil or any other essential oil without first consulting their physician. In some sensitive individuals, tea tree oil can cause drying of the skin, skin rash, and inflammation at the corners of the mouth. Tea tree oil should not be used in the ears as it could cause hearing loss.
This essential oil should not be taken orally due to possible toxicity. If serious irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. Severe allergic reaction is rare but important to watch out for.
Tea tree oil is a versatile essential oil that can help treat your most common health problems. Essential oils are a natural way to get the treatment you need without the added cost and dangerous side effects associated with prescription drugs. Whether you’re struggling with acne, dealing with yeast infections or just have an annoying bug bite, tea tree oil is on your side to provide quick, lasting relief on a budget!
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