Tea tree oil: 10 amazing uses you may not be aware of
Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca, a tree native to Australia, known for centuries by the aborigines for its countless beneficial properties. It has an intense and spicy scent, and its uses are many - in both the cosmetic and sanitizing fields. It is also antibacterial and antiviral, and it is no coincidence then that it is often recommended in case of seasonal flus, sore throats and colds. Not only this, it also boasts antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. In short, it is a truly precious and versatile natural remedy.
If some of its uses are now well established, there are others which are less well known. Not everyone knows, for example, that it is effective against dandruff, as several studies have shown. And it can be used - when properly diluted or mixed with other substances - as a deodorant and for soothing of swollen feet. Let's discover 10 unexpected uses for this precious oil.
Deodorant
Thanks to its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is perfect for preparing effective DIY deodorants with a pleasant scent. Just pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 125 ml of distilled water into a container, mixing well and letting the mixture rest for an hour. Filter out the baking soda and transfer the solution to a spray bottle, adding 5-6 drops of tea tree oil.
Anti-dandruff
According to some studies, tea tree oil helps prevent dandruff. To benefit from this property, pour about ten drops of oil into your shampoo bottle and wash your hair. Leave the shampoo on your hair for a few minutes before rinsing out.
Treatment of dry skin
Tea tree oil, as an essential oil, must not be used neat, but must always be mixed with other ingredients. For dry skin, it is recommended to add a few drops to a tablespoon of almond oil, massaging it into the skin which will help alleviate dryness.
Insect repellant
If insects tend to bite you - as often happens during the summer season with mosquitoes - you can prepare a solution to spray directly on the skin, based on water and a few drops of tea tree oil. Pour everything into a spray container and spray as needed.
Floor cleaner
Do you want pristine floors? Prepare a solution of half a glass of baking soda, 10 drops of tea tree oil and a large bucket of water. Use this DIY detergent to wash the floors - you will be amazed by the results!
Remedy for swollen feet
Tea tree oil also has soothing properties and is often recommended for the treatment of swollen feet. You can put 7-8 drops into a basin of hot water to prepare a relaxing foot bath - preferably done at the end of the day.
Face cleaner
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a basin of fresh water and use it to refresh and wash your face, keeping your eyes and mouth closed.
Disinfecting the dishwasher
Not just for floors, tea tree oil is also ideal for disinfecting the dishwasher and giving it an excellent smell. Pour a few drops directly into the machine and start an empty wash.
Pesticide for plants
Water and a few drops of tea tree oil - that's enough to prepare an effective pesticide for plants. Pour the mixture into a spray container and spray it directly on the plants you want to protect.
Remedy for pimples
Tea tree oil is useful for treating pimples and acne: just dip a cotton swab into the essential oil and pass it over the pimples.
You just need to try these many uses for tea tree oild to check their effectiveness for yourself, but always remember to test the DIY remedies on a small portion of your skin first and monitor for any sign of allergic reactions for 24 or 48 hours.
