Collection Method/ Method of Extraction: Steam distillation

Odour: A warm, spicy odour.

Appearance: A colourless to light yellow liquid.

Plant Part: leaf and branchlets

Country of origin: Australia

Botanical Name: Melaleuca alternifolia

Skin

Tea Tree essential oil could be beneficial for a wide range of skin presentations. It is thought to have strong antimicrobial, bactericidal, fungicidal properties and has been used throughout history for such uses.

Immune System

Its historical usage would indicate that tea tree essential oil may be of great benefit for use with the immune system, it is thought to have immuno-stimulant properties, which could support your immune system to function normally.

Respiratory System

Regarded as a great essential oil to use during the cold and flu season and may help support a normal, healthy respiratory system. 

Urogenital System 

May assist and support with symptoms of the urogenital system. Could help support the normal healthy functioning of the system.

The following ways to use the essential oil should help you to get the most benefit from this essential oil. 

For use with the skin

Protect Skin Emulsion

Using Tea Tree essential oil in your handmade skin emulsion is a great way to apply the essential oil with the method of a protective method of administration. Emulsions can act as a protective barrier and a wonderful medium in which to apply essential oils to skin conditions. Emulsions come in different forms such as creams and lotions. The consistency varies according to the desired outcome. 

You will need;

10g Emulsifying wax

30ml suitable carrier oil

5ml Vegetable glycerin

90ml purified water

2ml Citrus seed extract. 

Melt the wax in a bain-marie and stir in the vegetable oil. Bring the water and the glycerin to the same temperature in a separate bowl. Remove both bowls from the heat and slowly stir the water phase into the oil phase. Continue beating the mixture until it cools. Add the citrus seed extract and then essential oils of your choice including tea tree oil. Stir until completely mixed. Store in a dark glass jar.

The dilution ratio will be 2-3% (12-15 drops in 25/gm of cream) for adults bodily application.

For elderly people, those with sensitive skin, or those with medical conditions a 1% dilution (5 drops) is needed.

For use with the Immune system

Diffuser Method

Diffusing Tea Tree essential oil into your environment can be particularly beneficial when hoping to boost the immune system or times of sickness in the home. 

Add between 3-8 drops (depending on room size) of Tea Tree essential oil to the surface of the water in your diffuser. Or onto the pad in fan-driven vaporisers. Replenish as needed. May be combined in a blend with other essential oils up to the maximum amount of drops. Blends well with most other essential oils.

For use with the Respiratory System

Aromatherapy Steam Inhalation

Steam inhalations can be a great support for our immune system and when dealing with mild respiratory conditions.

Fill a Pyrex bowl 1/4 full with water just off the boil. Drop between 4-8 drops of Tea Tree essential oil onto the surface of the water. Remove any contact lenses and spectacles. Lean over the bowl as comfortable and cover your head with a towel. Keeping eyes closed. Inhale for 5-10 minutes or as feels comfortable for you. Can be repeated as need up to 8 times a day. 

Another, perhaps more convenient method of administration is using a purpose-made inhaler cup, easily found online or in your local pharmacy. Lower the dose to up to 2 drops with this method.

Be careful not to burn yourself with the hot water and keep away from children and in a safe location. Any irritation stop immediately. Discard solution after use. Not suitable for asthmatics or with children.

For use with the Urogenital System

Protect Sitz bath

Using Tea Tree essential oil in an aromatherapy sitz bath or regular bath could be a beneficial way to help support a healthy Urogenital System, especially in the management of conditions such as cystitis.

2-5 drops of essential oils diluted in 10ml of carrier oil (just be aware that this can make the bath slippery, care should be taken when entering or getting out of the bath and clean bath after use) 

Essential oil suppliers also sell unfragranced natural bath foamers and special base bath oils, which will not make the bath slippery. May be combined in a blend with other essential oils up to the Maximum amount of drops. 

Non-toxic externally, Non-irritant, skin sensitisation possible in some individuals.

Please consult your healthcare professional before using essential oils if you are taking medication or have pre-existing medical conditions or during pregnancy. 

Please consult your healthcare professional before using essential oils if you are taking medication or have pre-existing medical conditions or during pregnancy.

Essential oils are not for internal use. Do not ingest. 

Essential oils should always be diluted to the appropriate dilution ratio before use on the skin. 

Avoid contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes.

Keep out of the reach of children and away from animals.