Tea tree oil benefits for skin

Extracted from an Australian shrub, Melaleuca alternifolia, tea tree oil is an essential oil with powerful healing properties which make it very effective in treating a variety of skin conditions.

Tea tree oil is gaining popularity as a skin-care product because it is a gentler, natural alternative to chemical-based cosmetic products.

Here are some common uses and benefits of tree tea oil:

1. Acne
   Tree tea oil has been found effective in the treatment of acne as a result of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Numerous studies have found that participants who used tea tree oil experienced fewer lesions than those who used ordinary face wash. The oil also helps with redness and inflammation and can prevent scarring.
   How to use- Dilute a few drops of tea tree tea oil with a carrier oil that suits your skin type and apply to the affected areas of the skin twice a day.
2. Psoriasis
   Psoriasis makes the skin turn red, scaly, itchy and irritable. With its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil can help relieve the discomfort it causes.
   How to use– Mix coconut oil with tea tree oil and massage the mixture onto affected areas twice every day.
3. Eczema
   Eczema is a frustrating, persistent condition that causes rashes, itching, dryness, and even painful blisters. The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil help soothe dry skin and reduce itching around rashes and blisters. Its anti-inflammatory properties counter inflammation while its antibacterial properties help fight and prevent the spread of infection.
   How to use– Mix tea tree oil with your regular moisturizer or coconut oil to improve the condition.
4. Infections, cuts, and wounds
   Tea tree oil effectively heals wounds and infections as a result of its antibacterial properties. Studies have found that using tree tea oil for bacteria-caused wounds brings down the healing time as compared to conventional treatments.
   How to use- Add a drop of tea tree oil to a wound ointment and apply as directed.
5. Removal Of skin tags
   Skin tags are small, non-cancerous, but bothersome growths on the skin. The antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral properties of tea tree oil make it an effective treatment option.
   How to use- Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil. Apply onto skin tags using cotton wool. Leave to dry.
6. Antifungal
   Studies have discovered that tea tree oil has powerful antifungal properties, making it effective against a range of fungal and yeast-based infections.
   How to use- Add little tree tea oil to a carrier cream or oil and apply to infected areas.
7. Chicken Pox
   Chickenpox causes extremely irritating itching which often leads to scarring. Tea tree oil provides soothing relief against the itch.
   How to use– Bathe with a few drops of tea tree oil diluted with some carrier oils.