13 Handy Uses for Tea Tree Oil You Need to Know

Tea tree oil (also known as Melaleuca) is a ‘must have’ in any medicine kit because of its unique ability to fight bacteria, viruses and fungi. Whenever any of these nasty organisms are around, go straight for the tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil also acts to stimulate the immune system. As a result, it increases the body’s ability to fight and respond when under attack from infection.

With all this ability to fight the bad stuff, it is no surprise that there are many beneficial ways to use tea tree oil. Below is a list of handy uses for tea tree oil and how to apply it for greatest effect.

Pimples

Individual spots and pimples can be treated by applying a drop or two onto a cotton swab and dabbing the spot. It works to dry the spot out and is best applied at night before going to bed.

Athlete’s Foot

The anti fungal properties of tea tree oil make it ideal for treating athlete’s foot. There are several ways to apply it and you can read more on how to treat athletes foot at home.

Cold Sores

As an effective treatment for cold sores, use tea tree oil directly on the affected area. As soon as you feel the tingling associated with a cold sore, dab it straight on. Read more about essential oils for cold sores.

Dandruff

To treat dandruff, add 1 to 3 drops of tea tree oil to your regular amount of shampoo. Massage it into the scalp very thoroughly, leave for up to five minutes and rinse in the usual way. Repeat this 2 to 3 times a week.

Rashes

Rashes are typically areas of irritated skin. Apply tea tree oil directly if the area isn’t too large. For larger skin areas, dilute it in a carrier oil and apply over the whole area.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a disease on the outler layer of skin caused by fungal infection. It’s name comes from the ring shape that appears on the skin and forms as the disease spreads out in a circular shape.

Tea tree oil is a very effective treatment for ringworm. Apply 1 neat drop over the infected area three times a day until it clears.

Burns

Apply tea tree oil neat to any minor burn. Do it quickly after burning and any blisters can be prevented.

Wounds and Cuts

Treat wounds or cuts with neat tea tree oil. It’s antiseptic and antibacterial properties will destroy germs and prevent infection.

Insect Bites and Stings

Apply tea tree oil directly to any bites or stings. It will kill any germs and ward off possible infection while reducing any pain or swelling. It is the best remedy for bug bites.

Colds and Flu

Use tea tree oil at the first signs of cold or flu in the bath. It will immediately help to fight the infection and can stop the cold or flu developing. Go here for more tips on fighting cold and flu.

Coughs

Tea tree oil can help treat coughs when diffused or applied topically. For diffusion, you can use it alone or in a blend (see essential oil blends here). To use it topically, apply 1-2 drops to the throat and chest.

Warts

Viruses cause warts that appear as little lumps anywhere on the body. They are most common on the fingers and hands.

To treat warts, place a single drop of tea tree oil on the center daily, then cover with a plaster. It may take a few weeks to produce results, but it is an effective long term solution. The tea tree oil will kill the virus causing wart.

Fevers

Tea tree oil can promote sweating, which is one way to treat a fever. It can be used in a bath (if the patient is up to it) or applied in a massage.

While this is not an exhaustive list of the uses for tea tree oil, it covers common problems you may encounter. Make sure to keep a bottle of this super essential oil handy as it will be one you use often.