If you can wind your memory back to the time that Megan Markle and Prince Harry got engaged, Megan let the world know that there was one product that she could not live without: tea tree oil.
This Australian natural oil made from the evergreen leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree is a well-known solution to clear blemishes, treat pimples and deal with bites. A staple of aboriginal bush medicine, Tea Tree oil is a potent natural sanitiser and anti-fungal solution. With so many uses, this "all-natural" little Aussie battler is a must for every kitchen and medicine cabinet:
Quick Summary – The Star Power of Tea Tree Oil
- DIY cleaning: Mix with vinegar + water for mould and surface spray.
- Repel insects: Stronger mix (e.g. 10ml oil:100ml water) keeps mozzies, ants + flies away.
- Wellness use: Spot-treat blemishes or add to shampoo—always dilute first.
- Use safely: Not for ingestion; keep away from pets and small children.
Check Electrodry's blog for more DIY cleaning tips.
Tea Tree Uses Around the Home
1. Multipurpose Cleaner and Mould Remover
Tea tree oil is an awesome addition to your multipurpose cleaner.
A few drops in a spray bottle filled with equal parts vinegar and water will become a potent cleaner. While the vinegar and water dissolve dirt and muck, the tea tree oil will kill bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Vinegar and tea tree oil are very good at killing mould. Importantly, vinegar and tea tree oil are effective in treating different types of mould, which makes this a very effective all-around mould treatment solution. If your aim is to treat mould, we recommend increasing the concentration of tea tree oil.
2. Effective Disinfectant
Use it to clean, disinfect and deodorise sweaty exercise equipment, contaminated kitchen counters, dingy children's toys and even soap scum from tiles.
3. Natural Insecticide
Add more tea tree oil into the mix to make a powerful insecticide to keep those little buggers away. Mix 10ml of tea tree oil with 100 ml of water in a spray bottle and apply to clothing or furniture to keep the creepy crawlies away. This solution will be effective for house flies, mosquitos, and ants.
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Make Your Own Natural Insect RepellentTea Tree Oil for Health and Beauty
1. Skin Care
Tea tree oil is a staple in a lady's vanity mirror. But remember that when you use tea tree oil on your skin, you should ALWAYS dilute it, or it may cause irritation. Tea tree oil can have beneficial effects in evening out dry skin, eczema, and skin that is overly oily, itchy or inflamed. The powerful antioxidants in tea tree oil will help to make skin look young and smooth.
2. Makeup Removal
For cheap and safe makeup remover, mix 10 drops of tea tree with 1/4 cup of olive, coconut or canola oil and store in a sterilised airtight container.
3. Acne Control
Forget those acne treatments that are loaded with harsh chemicals. All you need is a few drops of tea tree oil to clear out your zit problems in a zip! Just dip a cotton bud in tea tree oil and dab on pimples for breakout control, or check out this site for various options for incorporating tea tree oil into your acne-fighting skin care routine.
4. Scalp Treatment
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo the next time you bathe. Tea tree oil removes shampoo build-up and eliminates lice and dandruff. It also helps make scalps healthier, preventing hair loss.
5. Treating Cuts and Abrasions
The strong disinfecting properties of Tea Tree Oil make quick work of an assortment of wounds, including cuts and abrasions. Dilute in water and apply to the wound.
6. Expectorant
Rub tea tree oil on your chest to soothe colds, coughs, bronchitis, and congestion. You can also apply a few drops on your pillow and be cured of respiratory problems as you sleep.
7. Treating Ear Infections
For ear infections, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of virgin olive oil and apply a few drops to the ear. This clears the infection and prevents it from coming back. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain.
8. Eliminating Bad Breath
Tea tree oil can be used in place of mouthwash. Apply a few drops in a glass of water and swirl around your mouth. The tea tree oil will eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath.
9. Treating Skin Conditions
Bacterial, microbial and fungal skin conditions can be cleared away with tea tree oil. Apply directly to the affected skin to treat boils, eczema, athlete's foot, ringworm, psoriasis and other skin conditions.
Disclaimer:
Electrodry strongly recommends you consult with a physician before using Tea Tree oil for medicinal purposes. Electrodry does not accept any responsibility for the effectiveness of Tea Tree oil.
