Tea Tree Essential Oil from VitalaSEA
Tea tree oil is a popular choice for wound healing, treating acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s thought to calm redness, swelling, and inflammation. It may even help to prevent and reduce acne scars, leaving you with smooth, clear skin. But to many experts, that is just the beginning.
According to The Mayo Clinic, "When used topically, tea tree oil is believed to be antibacterial. Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat acne, athlete's foot, lice, nail fungus and insect bites.
Tea tree oil is available as an oil and in many over-the-counter skin products, including soaps and lotions. However, tea tree oil should not be taken orally. If swallowed, it can cause serious symptoms.
According to Healthline: "Tea tree oil may have natural benefits for topical use. It may kill certain bacteria and support skin health when used as directed. (Here is an excerpt from their findings)
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has several uses, including keeping your skin, hair, and nails healthy.
In addition to its scientifically backed benefits, tea tree oil is inexpensive and safe when used as directed.
This article discusses 14 everyday uses for tea tree oil and provides guidance on using it safely and effectively.
Tea tree oil has been used as a traditional medicine by the Aboriginal people of Australia for centuries. These native Australians crush tea tree leaves to extract the oil, then inhale it to treat coughs and colds or apply it directly to the skin for healing.
Today, tea tree oil is widely available as a 100% undiluted, or neat, oil. Diluted forms are also available, ranging from 5–50% strength in products designed for the skin.
According to The Mayo Clinic, "When used topically, tea tree oil is believed to be antibacterial. Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat acne, athlete's foot, lice, nail fungus and insect bites.
Tea tree oil is available as an oil and in many over-the-counter skin products, including soaps and lotions. However, tea tree oil should not be taken orally. If swallowed, it can cause serious symptoms.
According to Healthline: "Tea tree oil may have natural benefits for topical use. It may kill certain bacteria and support skin health when used as directed. (Here is an excerpt from their findings)
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has several uses, including keeping your skin, hair, and nails healthy.
In addition to its scientifically backed benefits, tea tree oil is inexpensive and safe when used as directed.
This article discusses 14 everyday uses for tea tree oil and provides guidance on using it safely and effectively.
Tea tree oil has been used as a traditional medicine by the Aboriginal people of Australia for centuries. These native Australians crush tea tree leaves to extract the oil, then inhale it to treat coughs and colds or apply it directly to the skin for healing.
Today, tea tree oil is widely available as a 100% undiluted, or neat, oil. Diluted forms are also available, ranging from 5–50% strength in products designed for the skin.
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Tea tree oil contains a number of compounds, including terpinen-4-ol, that have been shown to kill certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
Terpinen-4-ol also appears to increase the activity of your white blood cells, which help fight germs and other foreign invaders (3Trusted Source). These germ-fighting properties make tea tree oil a valued natural remedy for treating bacterial and fungal skin conditions, preventing infection, and promoting healing. Read on to learn about the many uses and benefits of this oil. 1. Hand sanitizer Tea tree oil makes an ideal natural hand sanitizer. Studies have shown that it kills several common bacteria and viruses responsible for causing illness, including E. coli, S. pneumoniae, and H. influenzae (1Trusted Source). In fact, a study testing several types of handwash shows that |
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adding tea tree oil to the cleansers boosted their effectiveness against E. coli(4Trusted Source).
Studies continue to confirm that hand sanitizers with tea tree oil are effective for hand disinfection, killing bacteria without antibiotics (5Trusted Source).
2. Insect repellent
Tea tree oil may help keep pesky insects away.
One study found that 24 hours after being treated with tea tree oil, cows had 61% fewer flies than cows not treated with tea tree oil (6Trusted Source).
Tea tree oil is used to keep ants off of produce in agriculture (7).
It is also an effective mosquito repellent (8).
A test-tube study revealed that tea tree oil had a greater ability to repel mosquitoes than DEET, the most common active ingredient in commercial insect repellents (9Trusted Source).
Try this easy-to-make insect repellent using tea tree oil and other natural ingredients.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil has been shown to kill or repel insects. In some cases, it is as effective or more effective than standard insecticides or repellents.
3. Natural deodorant
Tea tree oil’s antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration.
Sweat itself does not smell. However, when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin, a moderate to strong odor is produced.
Your underarm area contains a large concentration of these glands and is mainly responsible for what is commonly referred to as body odor. Tea tree oil’s bacteria-fighting properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants and antiperspirants.
Here is a safe and effective natural deodorant that can be made from tea tree oil and a few other ingredients.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil contains compounds that fight bacteria responsible for body odor. It can be used to make a safe and effective deodorant.
4. Antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes
Injuries that result in broken skin make it easy for germs to enter your bloodstream, which can lead to infection.
Tea tree oil can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts and abrasions by killing S. aureus and other bacteria that can cause infection in open wounds (1Trusted Source).
To disinfect a cut or scrape, follow these steps:
SUMMARY: Applying a mixture of tea tree oil and coconut oil can help prevent minor cuts and abrasions from becoming infected.
5. Boost wound healing
In addition to preventing infection in cuts and abrasions, tea tree oil may also encourage wound healing.
Research has shown that tea tree oil helps reduce inflammation.
Studies continue to confirm that hand sanitizers with tea tree oil are effective for hand disinfection, killing bacteria without antibiotics (5Trusted Source).
2. Insect repellent
Tea tree oil may help keep pesky insects away.
One study found that 24 hours after being treated with tea tree oil, cows had 61% fewer flies than cows not treated with tea tree oil (6Trusted Source).
Tea tree oil is used to keep ants off of produce in agriculture (7).
It is also an effective mosquito repellent (8).
A test-tube study revealed that tea tree oil had a greater ability to repel mosquitoes than DEET, the most common active ingredient in commercial insect repellents (9Trusted Source).
Try this easy-to-make insect repellent using tea tree oil and other natural ingredients.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil has been shown to kill or repel insects. In some cases, it is as effective or more effective than standard insecticides or repellents.
3. Natural deodorant
Tea tree oil’s antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration.
Sweat itself does not smell. However, when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin, a moderate to strong odor is produced.
Your underarm area contains a large concentration of these glands and is mainly responsible for what is commonly referred to as body odor. Tea tree oil’s bacteria-fighting properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants and antiperspirants.
Here is a safe and effective natural deodorant that can be made from tea tree oil and a few other ingredients.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil contains compounds that fight bacteria responsible for body odor. It can be used to make a safe and effective deodorant.
4. Antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes
Injuries that result in broken skin make it easy for germs to enter your bloodstream, which can lead to infection.
Tea tree oil can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts and abrasions by killing S. aureus and other bacteria that can cause infection in open wounds (1Trusted Source).
To disinfect a cut or scrape, follow these steps:
- Clean the cut thoroughly with plain soap and water.
- Mix one drop of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil.
- Apply a small amount of the mixture to the injury and cover with a bandage.
- Repeat this process once or twice daily until a scab has formed.
SUMMARY: Applying a mixture of tea tree oil and coconut oil can help prevent minor cuts and abrasions from becoming infected.
5. Boost wound healing
In addition to preventing infection in cuts and abrasions, tea tree oil may also encourage wound healing.
Research has shown that tea tree oil helps reduce inflammation.
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and triggers the activity of white blood cells that are instrumental in the healing process (3Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).
Tea tree oil is a known antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-oxidant, and these actions will help reduce inflammation and enhance healing (12). In a small study of 10 people with wounds, adding tea tree oil to conventional wound treatment led to decreased healing time in all but one participant (13Trusted Source). A few drops of tea tree oil can be added to wound dressing each time a new dressing is applied. SUMMARY: Tea tree oil may help speed wound healing by reducing inflammation and increasing white blood cell activity. |
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6. Fight acne
Tea tree oil can be a powerful weapon against acne. Several studies have shown that it helps reduce the amount and overall severity of acne (12, 14Trusted Source).
Some acne is caused by bacteria that are becoming resistant to traditional antibiotics. Scientific examination of tea tree oil found that application not only reduced the activity of bacteria but also killed them in the lab after 4 to 6 hours (15).
In another study, tea tree oil was found to be as effective against acne as benzoyl peroxide, the most common anti-acne medication (16Trusted Source).
SUMMARY: Gels containing tea tree oil have been shown to reduce the number of lesions and severity of acne in a number of studies.
7. Get rid of nail fungus
Fungal nail infections are quite common. Although they aren’t dangerous, they can be unsightly. There are medications that can treat nail fungus, but some people may prefer a more natural approach.
Tea tree oil has been shown to help get rid of nail fungus when used alone or in combination with other natural remedies, with fewer side effects than traditional medications (17, 18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source).
In a controlled study, people with nail fungus used straight tea tree oil or an antifungal medication for 6 months. At the end of the study, about 60% of people in each group experienced partial or full resolution of the fungus (19Trusted Source).
You can use a few drops of tea tree oil alone or mix it with an equal amount of coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after applying in order to avoid spreading the fungus to other areas.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil appears to be as effective against fungal nail infections as antifungal medications applied to the area.
8. Chemical-free mouthwash
Research suggests that tea tree oil may fight germs that cause tooth decay and bad breath (20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).
One study found that tea tree oil was more effective against plaque-causing bacteria than chlorhexidine, a common disinfectant and oral rinse. What’s more, its taste was found to be less objectionable (20Trusted Source).
A 2020 study found that a tea tree oil mouthwash was an effective treatment to reduce the inflammation of gingivitis (23).
To make your own chemical-free mouthwash, simply add a drop of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water, mix thoroughly, and swish in your mouth for 30 seconds or so.
Like other mouthwashes, tea tree oil should not be swallowed. It can be toxic if ingested.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil can be diluted with water to create a mouthwash that helps fight bad breath and dental plaque.
9. All-purpose cleaner
Tea tree oil makes a great all-purpose cleaner that also sanitizes surfaces.
Plus, it does so without leaving traces of chemicals you wouldn’t want your family members or pets coming in contact with.
Tea tree oil can be a powerful weapon against acne. Several studies have shown that it helps reduce the amount and overall severity of acne (12, 14Trusted Source).
Some acne is caused by bacteria that are becoming resistant to traditional antibiotics. Scientific examination of tea tree oil found that application not only reduced the activity of bacteria but also killed them in the lab after 4 to 6 hours (15).
In another study, tea tree oil was found to be as effective against acne as benzoyl peroxide, the most common anti-acne medication (16Trusted Source).
SUMMARY: Gels containing tea tree oil have been shown to reduce the number of lesions and severity of acne in a number of studies.
7. Get rid of nail fungus
Fungal nail infections are quite common. Although they aren’t dangerous, they can be unsightly. There are medications that can treat nail fungus, but some people may prefer a more natural approach.
Tea tree oil has been shown to help get rid of nail fungus when used alone or in combination with other natural remedies, with fewer side effects than traditional medications (17, 18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source).
In a controlled study, people with nail fungus used straight tea tree oil or an antifungal medication for 6 months. At the end of the study, about 60% of people in each group experienced partial or full resolution of the fungus (19Trusted Source).
You can use a few drops of tea tree oil alone or mix it with an equal amount of coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after applying in order to avoid spreading the fungus to other areas.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil appears to be as effective against fungal nail infections as antifungal medications applied to the area.
8. Chemical-free mouthwash
Research suggests that tea tree oil may fight germs that cause tooth decay and bad breath (20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).
One study found that tea tree oil was more effective against plaque-causing bacteria than chlorhexidine, a common disinfectant and oral rinse. What’s more, its taste was found to be less objectionable (20Trusted Source).
A 2020 study found that a tea tree oil mouthwash was an effective treatment to reduce the inflammation of gingivitis (23).
To make your own chemical-free mouthwash, simply add a drop of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water, mix thoroughly, and swish in your mouth for 30 seconds or so.
Like other mouthwashes, tea tree oil should not be swallowed. It can be toxic if ingested.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil can be diluted with water to create a mouthwash that helps fight bad breath and dental plaque.
9. All-purpose cleaner
Tea tree oil makes a great all-purpose cleaner that also sanitizes surfaces.
Plus, it does so without leaving traces of chemicals you wouldn’t want your family members or pets coming in contact with.
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SUMMARY: Tea tree oil can be mixed with water and vinegar to create a chemical-free, all-purpose cleaner for your home.
A 2020 study found that a tea tree oil mouthwash was an effective treatment to reduce the inflammation of gingivitis (23). SUMMARY: Tea tree oil can be diluted with water to create a mouthwash that helps fight bad breath and dental plaque. 9. All-purpose cleanerTea tree oil makes a great all-purpose cleaner that also sanitizes surfaces. Plus, it does so without leaving traces of chemicals you wouldn’t want your family members or pets coming in contact with. SUMMARY: Tea tree oil can be mixed with water and vinegar to create a chemical-free, all-purpose cleaner for your home. |
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10. Soothe skin inflammation
Tea tree oil may help relieve inflamed skin.
A common form of skin irritation is contact dermatitis, which occurs when your skin comes in contact with an allergen, such as nickel. Exposure to the allergen leads to red, itchy, and sometimes painful skin.
Both animal and human research suggest that applying tea tree oil may help reduce the severity of these symptoms (24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source).
In a study comparing the effects of different treatments for contact dermatitis, tea tree oil was found to reduce symptoms by 40%, which was significantly more than standard medications applied to the skin (26Trusted Source).
In addition, tea tree oil may provide relief from bug bite reactions by reducing the itching, redness, and swelling that occurs when your body releases histamine to defend against the insect’s saliva (27Trusted Source).
One study found that tea tree oil applied as a gel to rosacea reduced inflammation and redness (28Trusted Source).
Demodex blepharitis is inflammation around the eyes and eyelids related to Demodex mites. Tea tree oil has been used worldwide to treat this irritating condition and has been found to reduce the number of mites and reduce inflammation (29).
SUMMARY: Applying a tea tree oil mixture may help combat skin inflammation related to contact dermatitis or insect bites.
11. Control dandruff
Dandruff, or white flakes of dead skin that fall from the scalp, isn’t dangerous. However, it can be annoying and embarrassing for some people. Adding tea tree oil to shampoo has been found to reduce dandruff. This is thought to be related to its antifungal properties. And because it is slightly more acidic than your skin, it helps clear the dandruff scales.
In one study, tea tree oil shampoos were found to be effective in reducing the growth of Candida albicans (yeast) which often contributes to dandruff formation (30).
To help reduce dandruff, try adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a dollop of shampoo when washing your hair.
SUMMARY: More studies are needed, but the antifungal properties of tea tree oil have been found to reduce the severity of dandruff and improve other symptoms.
12. Treat athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot can be frustratingly hard to control.
Known medically as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection on the feet that can also spread to the toenails and hands. Symptoms include peeling, cracking, blisters, and redness.
Antifungal medications are considered standard treatment for athlete’s foot. Yet studies suggest that tea tree oil may be an effective alternative for relieving symptoms (31Trusted Source, 32).
In a controlled study of 158 people, 72% of the tea tree oil group had significant clinical improvement in athlete’s foot, compared with 39% in the placebo group (31Trusted Source).
A 2020 study found tea tree oil was effective in reducing athlete’s foot, but a combination of traditional treatment and tea tree oil might be a quicker way to deal with this (32).
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil’s antifungal properties may help alleviate symptoms of athlete’s foot.
13. Banish mold on fruits and vegetables
Fresh produce is undeniably delicious and healthy.
Unfortunately, it’s also susceptible to the growth of gray mold known as Botrytis cinerea, particularly in warm, moist climates.
Studies have shown that tea tree oil’s antifungal compounds terpinen-4-ol and 1,8-cineole may help reduce the growth of this mold on fruits and vegetables (33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source).
To protect against mold, add 5–10 drops of tea tree oil to water before rinsing your produce and drying it thoroughly.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil contains compounds that help fight the growth of mold on fruits and vegetables. Adding tea tree oil to
Tea tree oil may help relieve inflamed skin.
A common form of skin irritation is contact dermatitis, which occurs when your skin comes in contact with an allergen, such as nickel. Exposure to the allergen leads to red, itchy, and sometimes painful skin.
Both animal and human research suggest that applying tea tree oil may help reduce the severity of these symptoms (24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source).
In a study comparing the effects of different treatments for contact dermatitis, tea tree oil was found to reduce symptoms by 40%, which was significantly more than standard medications applied to the skin (26Trusted Source).
In addition, tea tree oil may provide relief from bug bite reactions by reducing the itching, redness, and swelling that occurs when your body releases histamine to defend against the insect’s saliva (27Trusted Source).
One study found that tea tree oil applied as a gel to rosacea reduced inflammation and redness (28Trusted Source).
Demodex blepharitis is inflammation around the eyes and eyelids related to Demodex mites. Tea tree oil has been used worldwide to treat this irritating condition and has been found to reduce the number of mites and reduce inflammation (29).
SUMMARY: Applying a tea tree oil mixture may help combat skin inflammation related to contact dermatitis or insect bites.
11. Control dandruff
Dandruff, or white flakes of dead skin that fall from the scalp, isn’t dangerous. However, it can be annoying and embarrassing for some people. Adding tea tree oil to shampoo has been found to reduce dandruff. This is thought to be related to its antifungal properties. And because it is slightly more acidic than your skin, it helps clear the dandruff scales.
In one study, tea tree oil shampoos were found to be effective in reducing the growth of Candida albicans (yeast) which often contributes to dandruff formation (30).
To help reduce dandruff, try adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a dollop of shampoo when washing your hair.
SUMMARY: More studies are needed, but the antifungal properties of tea tree oil have been found to reduce the severity of dandruff and improve other symptoms.
12. Treat athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot can be frustratingly hard to control.
Known medically as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection on the feet that can also spread to the toenails and hands. Symptoms include peeling, cracking, blisters, and redness.
Antifungal medications are considered standard treatment for athlete’s foot. Yet studies suggest that tea tree oil may be an effective alternative for relieving symptoms (31Trusted Source, 32).
In a controlled study of 158 people, 72% of the tea tree oil group had significant clinical improvement in athlete’s foot, compared with 39% in the placebo group (31Trusted Source).
A 2020 study found tea tree oil was effective in reducing athlete’s foot, but a combination of traditional treatment and tea tree oil might be a quicker way to deal with this (32).
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil’s antifungal properties may help alleviate symptoms of athlete’s foot.
13. Banish mold on fruits and vegetables
Fresh produce is undeniably delicious and healthy.
Unfortunately, it’s also susceptible to the growth of gray mold known as Botrytis cinerea, particularly in warm, moist climates.
Studies have shown that tea tree oil’s antifungal compounds terpinen-4-ol and 1,8-cineole may help reduce the growth of this mold on fruits and vegetables (33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source).
To protect against mold, add 5–10 drops of tea tree oil to water before rinsing your produce and drying it thoroughly.
SUMMARY: Tea tree oil contains compounds that help fight the growth of mold on fruits and vegetables. Adding tea tree oil to
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water when rinsing produce may help your produce remain mold-free.
14. Relieve psoriasis Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by outbreaks of red, itchy, scaly skin. Although medications can improve symptoms, the condition itself is chronic and there is no known cure. Tea tree oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which, according to emerging evidence, may be helpful for easing psoriasis symptoms (35Trusted Source). To provide relief for psoriasis flares, combine 10–15 drops of tea tree oil with 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Apply this to the affected area 2–3 times per day, as needed. SUMMARY: Applying a mixture of tea tree oil and coconut oil may help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. |
Likewise, people with sensitive skin may experience irritation when using undiluted tea tree oil. If your skin is sensitive, it’s best to mix tea tree oil with an equal or greater amount of olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil.
Additionally, using tea tree oil on pets may not be safe. Researchers reported that more than 400 dogs and cats developed tremors and other nervous system problems after receiving between 0.1–85 mL of tea tree oil on the skin or orally (40Trusted Source).
The bottom line
As you can see, tea tree oil can be helpful for a number of reasons.
It’s an inexpensive natural alternative to chemical-based skin and nail treatments, personal care products, and disinfectants, among other things.
However, tea tree oil is not a magic cure-all. In fact, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reaction after using it.
Overall, tea tree oil serves many purposes and is a good item to have on hand.
What does the research say about tea tree oil and acne?
A 2015 reviewTrusted Source of 35 studies on the use of complementary treatments for acne concluded that there’s some evidence to support using tea tree oil for acne. But researchers note that this evidence isn’t of the best quality.
One 2006 study found that tea tree oil has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This may help with treating inflammatory acne lesions, such as pimples.
A 2016 study looked at using a combination of tea tree oil and resveratrol to protect the skin from sun damage. Although not the aim of the study, researchers found most participants had less oil and bacteria on their skin, as well as smaller pores. This could potentially improve acne.
In a 2017 studyTrusted Source, participants applied tea tree oil to their face twice daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers concluded tea tree oil has the ability to “significantly improve” mild to moderate acne with no serious side effects. But this study only had 14 participants and didn’t adhere to other research quality standards.
A 2018 studyTrusted Source found combining tea tree oil in specific combinations can also improve acne.
Additionally, using tea tree oil on pets may not be safe. Researchers reported that more than 400 dogs and cats developed tremors and other nervous system problems after receiving between 0.1–85 mL of tea tree oil on the skin or orally (40Trusted Source).
The bottom line
As you can see, tea tree oil can be helpful for a number of reasons.
It’s an inexpensive natural alternative to chemical-based skin and nail treatments, personal care products, and disinfectants, among other things.
However, tea tree oil is not a magic cure-all. In fact, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reaction after using it.
Overall, tea tree oil serves many purposes and is a good item to have on hand.
What does the research say about tea tree oil and acne?
A 2015 reviewTrusted Source of 35 studies on the use of complementary treatments for acne concluded that there’s some evidence to support using tea tree oil for acne. But researchers note that this evidence isn’t of the best quality.
One 2006 study found that tea tree oil has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This may help with treating inflammatory acne lesions, such as pimples.
A 2016 study looked at using a combination of tea tree oil and resveratrol to protect the skin from sun damage. Although not the aim of the study, researchers found most participants had less oil and bacteria on their skin, as well as smaller pores. This could potentially improve acne.
In a 2017 studyTrusted Source, participants applied tea tree oil to their face twice daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers concluded tea tree oil has the ability to “significantly improve” mild to moderate acne with no serious side effects. But this study only had 14 participants and didn’t adhere to other research quality standards.
A 2018 studyTrusted Source found combining tea tree oil in specific combinations can also improve acne.