Tea tree oil is also known as melaleuca oil. It is an essential oil absorbed from the Australian tea tree by steaming them. It is said to be antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and thus had many health benefits. The oil, however, needs to be used with caution and below are some of its benefits and cautions you need to observe.

· Insect repellent

Tea tree oil is most effective to repel insect, it can be considered as good as other insecticides in the market. Tea tree oil is most commonly used ingredient in insect repellents available in the market.

· Acts as an antiseptic

Tea tree oil if used with coconut oil can help cure minor wounds, as due to it’s anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties it acts as a natural antiseptic. It helps prevent wounds from getting infected.

· Can be used as hand sanitizer

Studies have shown that tea tree oil can kill several bacteria and viruses that can cause illness and disease. Thus using tea trees oil as a hand sanitizer can help kill many germs and bacteria on your hand.

· Fight acne

Tea tree oil is proven to be more effective in preventing acne or reducing the severity of acne. Studies have shown that using tea tree oil gel with 5% of tea tree oil or using your own tea tree oil acne treatment by mixing 1 drop of tea tree oil and 9 drops of carrier oil can help treat your acne and scars.

· Controls dandruff

Tea tree oil is also effective in treating dandruff. It can also help reduce other scalp related problems. Use tea tree oil while shampooing or while oiling your hair. Mix 1 drop of tea tree oil along with a gallop of shampoo and mix 2 drops of tea tree oil with carrier oil and apply.

There are many other benefits of using tea tree oil like

· A natural mouthwash

· Relieving psoriasis

· Soothing skin inflammation

· Get rid of nail fungus

· Natural deodorant

Cautions:

· Tea tree oil is not to be ingested as it can be toxic if consumed.

· Prior to using tea tree oil, it’s important to do a patch test.

· Tea tree oil is to be used along with carrier oil as it may cause irritation on sensitive skin. You can make use of olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil.

Also read,

Beauty benefits of daily workout

4 honest purpose of why we practice yoga asana

Benefits of Jogging Every Day