Aromatherapy fans have long included tea tree oil in their arsenal. This light yellow or colorless liquid is obtained by steam distillation from the leaves of melaleuka trees growing in Australia and Malaysia. The antiviral, bactericidal and antifungal properties of this essential oil make it a component suitable for inclusion in therapeutic and hygiene products.
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Tea tree oil has nothing to do with a popular astringent drink. The source of this substance is evergreen trees belonging to the myrtle family. Their dry leaves are rich in essential oils with a smell similar to the aroma of camphor. The substance used in cosmetics and medicine is obtained from plants of the species Melaleuca alternifolia, Melaleuca leucadendra and Melaleuca viridiflora.
In the mid 20-ies of the XX century, it was discovered that tea tree oil in its effect significantly exceeds one of the most popular antiseptics at that time, carbolic acid. The substances contained in the leaves of the plant are able to withstand fungal and yeast infections, adversely affect the development of a number of bacteria. The research results allowed doctors to use this drug in the treatment of infectious diseases of the skin, oral cavity and nasopharynx.
As a component of the composition for inhalation, tea tree oil is used for bronchitis, tonsillitis and sinusitis. Due to the antiseptic, expectorant and soothing properties of the substances contained in the leaves of melaleuka, preparations with this oil help to clear the airways.
Tea tree has the ability to have a healing effect, its essential oil is used in the treatment of burns and to neutralize poisons with insect bites. This substance relieves pain and disinfects the affected area. This drug is also used against parasites like scabies mites and lice. As part of lotions, creams and shampoos, tea tree oil quite effectively helps get rid of dandruff and acne.
The popularity of this substance is not least due to the fact that, unlike synthetic antiseptics, no side effects were found in tea tree oil. However, before using this drug, it is worthwhile to test and make sure that there is no individual intolerance. To do this, a small amount of oil is applied to the back of the wrist and left for an hour. As a rule, tea tree does not cause irritation, but slight redness of the skin may occur. Such a reaction is considered normal.