10 Amazing Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most famous essential oils with various benefits. The holistic science of Ayurveda provides evidence about this oil since ancient times. Tea tree oil holds great significance by balancing all Ayurvedic tridoshas – Vata, pitta, and Kapha doshas.  

Tea tree oil, known as melaleuca oil; derived from the Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. Also, the tea tree plant is different from a regular tea plant irrespective of their names. It is coined as ‘knight in shining armor’ because it protects against all kinds of infections and various allergic reactions. It can be used to treat multiple disorders such as skin and hair problems due to its anti-inflammatory, soothing, anti-allergic, anti-microbial, and nourishing properties.  

How Does it Act?

Tea tree oil contains many compounds like terpinen-4-ol that have anti-microbial properties. This terpinen-4-ol helps to fight against infection by boosting your immunity. It increases the activity of white blood cells to produce immunity.  

Other than abundant benefits, tea tree oil may be harmful too, if not taken as per the physician’s guidance. I read in an article that states swallowing tea tree oil is not advised. Oral administration might result in significant side effects such as unconsciousness, ataxia (lack of muscular coordination), disorientation, and breathing issues.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Benefits and Uses of Tea Tree Oil

1. Promotes Glowing Skin

Tea tree oil is best to use for skin benefits. It is very beneficial for your skin and makes it look radiant and glowing. It is a powerhouse of antioxidants that helps skin to reduce its dryness and make it smooth.  

2. Helps to Get Rid of Acne

Tea tree oil is very effective against acne due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Research suggests that it is as effective as benzoyl peroxide. It is said to soothe redness, swelling, and inflammation. It penetrates the pores to remove toxins and prevent clogging. It also reduces and lightens the scars. Tea tree oil restores the natural oil balance of the skin. Though tea tree oil works slowly but using it straight for 45 days can be so magical for your skin. You can use tea tree oil-based gel for good results.  It penetrates the pores to remove toxins and prevent clogging. It also reduces and lightens the scars. Tea tree oil restores the natural oil balance of the skin. Though tea tree oil works slowly but using it straight for 45 days can be so magical for your skin. You can use tea tree oil-based gel for good results.  

3. Prevents Skin Infections

The anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties of this oil help to clear infections. It works excellently in all types of skin infections such as psoriasis, herpes, and athlete’s foot. It also helps to relieve skin irritation and inflammations. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil with moisturizer or olive oil and apply it to the affected area.

In this way, tea tree oil benefits us as a hand sanitiser would. Tea tree oil may also be effective in repelling insects. For example, in agriculture, tea tree oil is used to keep ants off of produce. It is also effective as a natural mosquito repellent. Tea tree oil is also said to be an effective antiseptic used for minor cuts and scrapes. As it contains anti-microbial properties, it can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts and abrasions by killing S. aureus among other bacteria that cause infections in open wounds.

Studies have revealed that tea tree oil might be your ally in eyelid infection. Major eyelid symptoms include a frequent chronic inflammatory disease of the eyelid border, including peeling, redness, burning, and crusting. I highly recommend the topical application of tea tree oil in this condition due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

4. Prevents Skin Cancer

According to some research, tea tree oil can help to fight against skin cancer. It is beneficial in reducing cancerous tumours.  

5. Prevents Dandruff and Lice

Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties that work to remove dandruff, lice, white flakes, and dead skin of the scalp. It also acts as a cleanser and conditioner helps to soothe the dry scalp and treats lice. For best results, try to apply a few drops of tea tree oil in coconut oil or almond oil on your hair daily.  

6. Reduces Hair Fall

Tea tree oil acts as a tonic for your hair and makes it healthy and shiny. It promotes natural hair growth and strengthens it.  

7. Treatment for Nail Fungal Infection

Nail fungal infections are common but difficult to treat. Tea tree oil helps to get rid of nail fungus when used alone or in combination with other natural remedies. Use a few drops of tea tree oil alone or mix it with an equal amount of coconut oil and apply it to the affected area.  

8. Beneficial for Respiratory Complaints

With a lot of anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil helps wonderfully on respiratory complaints. It is a potent expectorant and helps to clear the blocked mucus in the throat and nose. It is also a potent remedy for asthma, tuberculosis, bronchitis, etc.

9. Promotes Oral Health

Research suggests that tea tree oil fights against germs, which cause tooth decay, bad breath, and other inflammatory oral diseases. You can use it as a chemical-free mouthwash by just adding a drop of tea tree oil in half a cup of water, mix it, and swish in your mouth for 30 seconds.  

10. Acts as a Natural Deodorant

Anti-bacterial properties of tea tree oil can help to control odor related to perspiration. It can be a safe and effective deodorant alternative.

Side Effects of Tea Tree Oil

It is safe when applied topically, but sometimes it may cause skin irritation, dryness of skin, and swelling. While tea tree oil can be a great addition to your daily routine, it is important to follow certain precautions. Tea tree oil is not for consumption and should always be diluted before application. Other side effects of tea tree oil may include redness, itching, burning, and dry or scaly skin. It is possible for people to develop an allergic reaction to tea tree oil. It is suggested to do a skin patch test before applying tea tree oil on a large area of skin.  

As tea tree oil can also be used for aromatherapy, breathing in or inhaling too much of the essence may lead to symptoms such as nausea, headache or vertigo.

Read more about Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Skin And Hair

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

48

1