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Tea tree oil, commonly known as melaleuca, is touted for its potent antiseptic properties and ability to treat wounds and minor injuries. It is obtained from Melaleuca alternifolia, an Australian native plant which has been long used across Australia for various purposes.
Tea tree oil uses are countless: diffusing it in the air to kill off mold, applying it to heal skin issues, making DIY cleaning products, etc. It is becoming all the rage and it is being used as an active ingredient in many cosmetic and household products, such as shampoos, skin and nail creams, laundry detergents, and many more.
Here are the top 10 ways to use this miraculous and highly versatile oil:
1. Clear up acne
According to WebMD, applying a 5 percent tea tree oil has been proven to be as effective as common acne treatments containing 5 percent benzoyl peroxide. Although it works more slowly, it is much less irritating to the skin. It is recommended to use it two times daily for 45 days to relieve the acne symptoms.
2. Heal scars
As explained by Organic Facts, tea tree oil has cicatrisant properties which help heal wounds quickly. In addition, it protects the wounds from infections and reduces scars and marks on the skin left from acne.
3. Stop smelly feet
As noted on Healthline, you can make DIY foot powder to clear up the stinky feet caused by bacteria. Mix equal parts of baking soda and cornstarch, add 10 drops of tea tree oil, and optional 10 drops of lavender oil. Apply the solution on the feet and the soles of the shoes to keep stinky smell away.
4. Cure fungal nail infections
To treat fungal infections, use 100% tea tree oil. Apply the solution onto the affected area two times a day over the course of six months. It has been scientifically shown that this method really works and improves the nail`s appearance in about three months.
5. Have smoother skin
Melaleuca oil found in tea tree oil possesses potent antioxidant properties, making it effective in reducing wrinkles and age spots.
6. Eliminate ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection which is highly contagious. It has been scientifically proven that tea tree oil treats ringworm and helps prevent the spread of the fungus. Dilute a few drops of pure tea tree oil in carrier oil like olive or almond oil, and apply it onto the affected skin.
7. Relieve athlete`s foot
Using a 25-50% tea tree oil topically helps cure the fungal infection responsible for athlete`s foot. You can also use a 10% cream to relieve the symptoms, such as burning, itching, and scaling. This cream works as common medications like Ting, Genaspor, and Tinactin.
8. Reduce cold and flu symptoms
Tea tree oil relieves symptoms associated with chest infections, coughs, and colds. It is recommended to rub diluted oil on the chest before bedtime so that you inhale the oil during the night.
9. Strengthen hair
Diluted tea tree oil applied on the scalp is a good way to treat hair conditions. It works by improving blood flow, which is crucial for stimulating hair growth, keeping a healthy scalp, and preventing hair loss.
10. Banish head lice
Tea tree oil has been scientifically proven to kill off lice in both stages of life as well as to reduce the number of eggs. What makes it so effective in banishing head lice is the fact that it contains compounds with insecticidal properties which make it easier for you to comb the eggs out.
Sources:
http://home.remedydaily.com/2017/05/22/10-powerful-effects-of-tea-tree-oil-on-your-health/