What is tea tree oil? What are the benefits of tea tree oil? What are the uses of tea tree oil?
The tea tree goes by the Latin name of Melaleuca alternifolia. Tea tree oil is also referred to as Melaleuca oil or Australian tea tree oil. The leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia, are distilled so that their essential oils can be made into tea tree oil. The uses of tea tree oil and the leaves go back so far that they are quite familiar to the Aborigines.
Some of the most common specific uses of tea tree oil besides those mentioned above include treating vaginitis, periodontal disease, dandruff, lice, and athlete's foot. Another one of the benefits of tea tree oil is the fact that it can be used to help get a sun tan safely.
However, along with the benefits of tea tree oil come potential side effects. Some research has shown that extensive use of the oil can cause breast enlargement in males. It is recommended that women who are pregnant or nursing avoid tea tree oil.
People who have cancers that are hormone-sensitive are also advised to avoid its use. Some people, although not common, are allergic to tea tree oil and its use for them can cause anything from a mild rash to severe skin inflammation and boils. Undiluted tea tree oil can have very bad effects on the skin and cause irritation, burning, sores, or severe itching.
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