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Photo: Arthur Chapman / Flickr

There is so much more to Australia than koala bears, kangaroos and surfing. Along with Neighbours, Home and Away and Hugh Jackman, you can thank them for bringing us tea tree oil. This essential oil is credited with the cure and relief of a host of conditions and diseases. Also known as Melaleuca, it has been used for thousands of years by native Australians. Medical researchers have since then confirmed that this potent pale yellow oil has numerous medicinal properties.

What are the benefits of tea tree oil?

This wildly popular oil is a natural cure for all three types of infections: fungus, bacteria and virus. And certain infections which have built a resistance to antibiotics are powerless against it. It’s a great remedy for acne, oily skin, blisters, athlete’s foot, warts, herpes, rashes, abscesses, dandruff, insect bites and small cuts.

Breathe

It doesn’t stop there. Tea tree oil is also very effective when it comes to treating respiratory conditions such as sore throats, colds and flu symptoms, asthma, bronchitis and even tuberculosis.

And if you have chicken pox, measles, plantar warts or cold sores, tea tree oil should be your first choice as its anti-viral properties are extremely helpful in fighting off these infections. It’s also good to strengthen the immune system.

Definitely not old wives’ tales

There are numerous home remedies that you may try after consultation with your doctor.

If you suffer from bad breath and oral infections, pour a few drops of tea tree oil in a glass of water and gargle twice a day. You’ll notice a difference after a few days. A few drops in the bath are also good at dealing with unpleasant body odours and tired, painful muscles.

Rubbing some oil onto your scalp will also prevent nits, lice and dandruff.

In diluted form, dab it onto wounds, small scratches, cuts and insect bites. You’ll experience fast relief with minimal scarring.

Teenagers will also be happy to hear that this essential oil is great at clearing acne and unclogging pores.

There are many, many more uses of tea tree oil to be found in books and on various websites. Whatever you do, don’t forget to get the advice of your health practitioner before starting any treatment. This especially relevant if you’re pregnant.

Tags: medicine, oil