Medicinal Properties of Tea Tree Oil

Native Australians have been using Tea Tree oils antiseptic and anti-fungal properties for a very long time, however it was not used as common medical practice until the 1920-30's, when researcher Arthur Penfold started publishing his research on Tea Tree's antimicrobial activities. Tea Tree oil has not only gained recognition in the skin care industry, but has a medicinal history as well. In fact it was mandatory during World War II that Tea Tree oil be packed in Australian armed forces first aid kits, and in London hospitals are known to use soaps that have Tea Tree oil in them for hygiene of both staff and patients. Traditionally Tea Tree oil was used by inhaling the oils from crushed leaves to treat colds and coughs.

It was not until a friend of mine who had suffered from severe athlete's foot, mentioned to me how Tee Tree oil was the only thing that effectively treated their condition, that I began to research this amazing oil.  This friend had tried many different medications in which none of them seemed to work.  As I began my research I very quickly learned that Tea Tree oil is known to effectively treat skin infections, such as Poison Ivy- Oak, wounds, cuts, burns and has anti- fungal properties, which is why my friends condition improved after using a goat's milk lotion that had Tea Tree in it.

I think this is amazing and love hearing of testimonies of natural remedies. When I heard of this news I immediately begun to read up on this oil and also learned that this oil is being used to treat staff infections such as (MRSA). Tea Tree’s antibacterial properties make handmade soaps made with Tea Tree oil a great alternative than using antibacterial soaps that have Triclosal in them. Although Tea Tree has been proven to be an effective antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory you should always check with your health care provider before using any new form of treatment even if it is a natural remedy. Tea Tree has been known to have some side effects, some people might be allergic to the cineole in the tea tree oil, it is recommended not to use Tea Tree oil if you are breast feeding and or are pregnant, and like lavender there have been a small amount of links to temporary breast enlargement among young boys, medically know as prepubertal gynecomastia. The good news is that this is very rare and goes away after use of the oils.