An essential oil with a fresh camphoraceous odour and a colour that ranges from pale yellow to nearly colourless and clear

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca Alternifolia tree, which is native to Southeast Queensland and the Northeast coast of New South Wales, Australis.

Tea tree oil is commonly used topically in low concentrations for the treatment of skin conditions

It is also know for the treatment of dandruff, acne, lice, insect bites as well as fungal and bacterial skin infections

Although Melaleuca Alternifolia is known as tea tree, it should not be confused with the plant that produces leaves used to make black, green and oolong tea

Tea tree has been used as a traditional medicine by Aborigines for centuries. These native Australians crush tea leaves to extract the oil, which is then inhaled to treat coughs and colds or applied directly to the skin for healing

The germ fighting properties of tea tree make it a valued natural remedy for treating fungal and bacterial skin conditions, preventing infection and promoting healing

There are numerous uses and benefits of tea tree oil

A Natural Hand Sanitizer

Using tea tree oil as a natural hand sanitizer may help kill a number of germs responsible for colds and flu as well as numerous other health issues

Natural deodorant

Tea tree oil contains compounds that fight bacteria responsible for body odour. It can be used to make a safe and effective deodorant

Wound healing

Tea tree oil may help speed up wound healing by reducing inflammation and increasing white blood cell activity

Fights acne

Diluting tea tree oil with 1 part oil to 9 parts water and applying the mixture to affected areas with a cotton swab once or twice a day, reduces the effects of acne

Nail fungus

Tea tree oil appears to be effective against nail fungal infections due to its antifungal properties. Mix with equal parts coconut oil and apply to the infected area

All-purpose cleaner

Tea tree oil makes a great all-purpose cleaner that also sanitizes surfaces. Combine 20 drops with ¾ cups of water and ½ cup of apple cider vinegar in a spray bottles. Shake until thoroughly mixed. Spray directly onto surfaces and wipe clean with a dry cloth.

Although research shows that tea tree oil appears to be overall safe, there are some things to be aware of before using

Tea tree oil should not be digested as it may be toxic if swallowed – therefore should be kept out of reach of children

Prior to using tea tree oil for the first time, test a drop or two on a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs

People with sensitive skin may experience irritation when using undiluted tea tree oil – if your skin is sensitive it is best to mix tea tree oil with an equal or greater amount of olive oil, almond oil or coconut oil first

Additionally using tea tree oil in pets may not be safe and should therefore be used with extreme caution

Tea tree should also be used with caution for young children and infants