Essential Oil Tea Tree
Tea tree oil (also known as melaleuca oil comes form the tree Melaleuca alternifolia which is indigenous to Australia. The oil has antifungal and antibiotic properties and is used in many cosmetic preparations.
History
The indigenous people of Eastern Australia use parts of the tree in traditional medicine. The leaves are used as a poultice and oils from crushing the leaves are inhaled for the treatment of colds and coughs. The leaves are used to make an infusion for a skin treatment.
Tea tree oil, as opposed to plant material, was first used in the 1920’s after Arthur Penfold reported its antimicrobial properties.
Soon after it was produced commercially but after the introduction of antibiotics in th2 1950’s the demand declined. With the interest in natural remedies and products during the 1970’s the industry revived and large scale production of a pure essential oil product began.
Properties
Over 98 compounds have been isolated from tea tree oil but only one, terpinen-4-ol (an alcohol), has been found to have antimicrobial properties.
Tea tree oil can also be extracted from both Melaleuca linariifolia and Melaleuca dissitiflora as well as the usual Melaleuca alternifolia. International standards define tea tree oil as Oil of Melaleuca, Terpinen-4-ol type containing 15 specified components.
Extraction
Tea tree oil is extracted by steam distillation of the leaves and twigs.
Aroma
The aroma of tea tree oil is spicy and camphoraceous
Uses
Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibiotic properties. 5% tea tree oil shampoo is an effective treatment for dandruff Tea tree oil has also proved effective in the treatment of acne and candidiasis. It can also be used on insect bites, for the treatment of sunburn. A few drops added to the bath will help relaxation and it makes a lovely smelling massage oil. Tea tree oil is always used externally.
A few people are allergic to tea tree oil and it should never be used undiluted on the skin. Pregnant women are advised not to use tea tree oil.
Tea Tree Essential Oil Cert Organic 4 fl oz: C
The aroma of the oil is warm, spicy, medicinal and volatile. It is occasionally used to scent spicy colognes and aftershaves. It blends well with lavander, rosemary and nutmeg oils. Aromatherapy benefits: cleansing, purifying, uplifting.
Click here to buy Tea Tree Essential Oil Cert Organic 4 fl oz: C
You can find many more essential oils at very good prices on our Discount Essential Oil Supplies page
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