Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea Tree (Melaleuca) is a shrub or small tree with a white trunk, persistent leaves, and fruit in the form of capsules. This tree is widespread in the marshy regions of the northeast coast of Australia (New South Wales).
This essential oil is obtained by distilling fresh leaves.
For millennia, the Bundjalund, Australian aborigines, have used the varied properties of this plant to treat wounds and skin infections. In the 1920s, this oil began to be used in surgery and dentistry to prevent or combat skin and mucous membrane infections.
Recent scientific research has shown that tea tree oil is a powerful anti-infective and antiviral that strengthens the immune system.
It is an excellent oil for relieving and disinfecting:
- Insect bites
- Sunburns
- Wounds
Tea Tree is known for its effectiveness in relieving topical problems of various skin conditions and mucous membranes (such as acne, athlete's foot, vaginitis, for example).
It is traditionally used in the topical treatment of skin wounds and burns.
Identification
Label Name: Melaleuca essential oil
Botanical Species: Melaleuca alternifolia
Family: Myrtaceae
Part Used: Leaves
Extraction Method: Distillation
Origin: Australia
Main Components: Monoterpene, cineole, cymene, pinene, terpineol, terpinene
Uses: Massages, inhalations, baths, diffusions, compresses, and first aid
Properties for External Use
- Powerful antiseptic
- Antifungal
- Cutaneous antiparasitic
- Vein and lymphatic decongestant
- Reduces fever
- Facilitates the elimination of bronchial mucus
Main Uses for External Use
- Fungal infections
- Warts and calluses
- Blister
- Fungal infections
- Abscess
- Gingivitis
- Mouth ulcer
- Boils
- Dandruff
- Chilblains
- Cuts
- Burns
- Repels insects
- Insect bites
- Diaper rash
- Varicose ulcer
- Shingles
- Genital infections (vaginal douches)
- Trichomonas, candida, thrush, itching (anal or vaginal), genital herpes
- Cold, flu, cough (by inhalation)
- Athlete's foot (6 drops in a foot bath + a few drops in oil for massage)
Instructions for Use
Spot Massage: Apply 3 to 4 drops of pure essential oil to the affected area or to be treated.
Massage: To achieve a 5% dilution, ideal for massages, mix 5 ml of essential oil with 100 ml of vegetable oil, alcohol-free gel, cream, or virgin massage emulsion.
Inhalation: Apply 2 or 3 drops on a handkerchief and breathe for a few minutes. Stop if you feel any discomfort. Repeat as often as necessary OR boil water, remove from heat, pour into a dish, add a few drops of essential oil, cover your head with a towel, and breathe gently.
In Bath: Add 5 drops of pure essential oil to water, bath foam, or a handful of sea salt.
Compresses: Add a few drops to a compress and apply to the affected area. Repeat as often as necessary.
Essential Oil Diffusers: Add 10 to 15 drops to a diffuser of your choice. Duration 10 to 15 minutes
Recommendations and Precautions for Use
IMPORTANT: KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND ANIMALS. KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT, FLAMES, AND LIGHT. FLAMMABLE
