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Tea tree oil - An invaluable first aid kit standby

Tea tree oil, or melaleuca alternifolia to use it's botanical name, is used to promote physical health and well being in a multitude of ways.  It's a really useful aromatherapy oil to have in a first aid kit of natural remedies.  In addition to having antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal qualities, tea tree essential oil is well known for being a natural antiseptic.  As well as being used to treat physical conditions, tea tree can be used in the home as a non-toxic disinfectant for cleaning surfaces or even for washing nappies.

Tea tree oil uses including evaporating it in an aromatherapy diffuser or in a bath to boost the immune system and to fight symptoms of colds or flu.  The powerful aroma molecules can soothe sore throats and help clear sinus infections and catarrh.  Like lavender essential oil, tea tree can be applied neat to the skin, or by using a compress, although it can cause irritation to very sensitive skin.  Useage of tea tree includes treating blisters, burns, warts and verrucae.  Tree tea oil is also good for spots and blackheads, cold sores and dandruff. 

A few drops of tea tree pure essential oil added to steaming bath water can help ease the discomfort of various uro-genital infections, including cystitis and pruritis.  Although this concentrated plant essence should not be taken internally, if diluted it can be used as a mouth wash to soothe bleeding or swollen gums and painful mouth ulcers.  Some suppliers of inferior aromatherapy products sell adulterated tea tree oils, mixed with synthetic chemicals.  Aromatherapists advise checking the label to ensure purity, or if in doubt looking for stores that sell certified organic essential oils.

About The Author:

Caroline Smith is a successful freelance writer and regular contributor to http://www.aromatherapy-essential-oils.ws - A comprehensive online guide to the uses of aromatherapy and essential oils.