The Star Power of Tea Tree Oil

Since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry got engaged, an Aussie miracle cure has been making headlines. Meghan Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex, let the world in on the one product she can't travel 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 sanitizer and anti-fungal solution. With so many uses, this “all-natural” little Aussie battler is a must for every kitchen and medicine cabinet:

Tea Tree Uses Around the Home

• Multi-purpose Cleaner - Tea tree oil is an awesome addition to your multi-purpose 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, virus and fungi. A very safe alternative to sanitize and disinfect your home.

• Disinfectant - Use it to clean, disinfect and deodorise sweaty exercise equipment, contaminated kitchen counters, dingy children’s toys and even soap scum from tiles. 

• Insecticide and mould cleaner - Add more tea tree oil into the mix to make a powerful insecticide to keep those little buggers away. Use a stronger concentration of tea tree oil to get rid of nasty mould and mildew, or follow the instructions here to make a great bathroom mould cleaner. 

Tea Tree Oil for Health and Beauty

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.

• Removing Makeup - 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.

• Acne - 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.

• Skin Care - 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.

• Scalp Treatment - Mix a few drops of tea tree oil to 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.

• Treat Cuts And Abrasions - The strong disinfecting properties of Tea Tree Oil makes quick work of an assortment of wounds including cuts and abrasions. Dilute in water and apply to the wound.

• Expectorant - Rub tea tree on your chest to soothe colds, cough, bronchitis, and congestion. You can also apply a few drops on your pillow and be cured of respiratory problems as you sleep.

• 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.

• Eliminate 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 causes bad breath.

• 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.