The best-known and most precious oil in aromatherapy, thanks to its unparalleled versatility and strength. The history tells that Captain James Cook arrived in Australia and was greeted with tea made from the Melaleuca leaves, hence the name. Cook observed that the natives used its leaves to make plasters that were applied to wounds to treat infections. In 1922, its distillation and analysis of its properties was carried out and, in World War II, the oil was already part of the first aid kit of the Australian navy.

Product Details

Name: Tea tree

Scientific Name: Melaleuca alternifolia

Method of extraction: Steam distillation

Part of plant: Leaves

Country of origin: Australia

Main Components: Terpinen-4-ol (42.80%), gamma-Terpinene (20.23%), alpha-Terpinene (10.07%)

Health

Tea Tree essential oil has internal and external uses, is anti-inflammatory, and is effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi. It also relieves skin infections, helps with acne, abscesses, boils and oral infections, hair problems, respiratory problems and as a decongestant. 

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-infectious

Tea Tree essential oil can treat various skin problems from acne to injuries. It can be used alone or associated with other essential oils, which will increase the treatment. \n \nIt is useful in cases of urinary tract infection. 

Also useful in oral problems such as aphtha, stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontitis.

Antibiotic

In vitro tests showed that tea tree oil was more effective than traditional topical antibiotics in fighting Staphylococcus aureus infections, including methicillin-resistant strains [1]. 

Antifungal

In vitro tests indicate tea tree oil as a broad-spectrum antifungal. It is useful in regard to onychomycosis (nail mycosis). The application can be local and enhanced if associated with clove oil. It can be used to treat Chilblains (caused by Tinea pedis). It also helps in cases of oral candida, Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans. 

Antiprotozoal and antiparasitic

In a clinical trial with a 5% concentration, Tea Tree essential oil proved to be useful against dandruff [2]. In terms of hair health, it is also used against lice and mites, showing its effectiveness in vitro [3]. Also useful against a small mite that appears on the eyelashes, Demodex folliculorum. 

Other uses

It has a useful effect against bad breath, contact dermatitis, cutaneous and vaginal mycoses, herpes, warts, chronic and seborrheic dermatitis.

Side effects

Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children under 3 years old. It is recommended to test it on a small area of ​​the forearm at least a day before use to check for possible irritation. If necessary, dilute it before use. \n \nTea Tree oil is poisonous for cats and dogs, so be careful to wash hands before handling pets and do not diffuse around them.

How to use

It can be used neat or diluted. Its internal use must be indicated and monitored by a professional. 

References

[1] Ferrini AM, Mannoni V, et al. Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil possesses potent anti-staphylococcal activity extended to strains resistant to antibiotics. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2006 Jul-Sep;19(3):539-44.

[2] Satchell AC, Saurajen A, et al. Treatment of dandruff with 5% tea tree oil shampoo.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Dec;47(6):852-5. Étude analysée dans la publication suivante : Does 5% tea tree oil shampoo reduce dandruff? Prensner R. J Fam Pract. 2003 Apr;52(4):285-6.