Tea tree oil is one of the most versatile natural ingredients around, and is used for everything from cosmetics and personal care items to household and pet products. It’s been used commercially for over 100 years, but even before that, native Australians trusted tea tree oil for its medicinal and cosmetic uses.
What is tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil made by distilling the leaves of the tea tree, also known as Melaleuca alternifolia. This tree is native to Australia and grows in the swampy conditions of the Southeast coast.
It was used as traditional medicine by the Aboriginal people of Australia for centuries, who crushed the leaves to extract the oil, which was then inhaled or applied directly to the skin to relieve and cure several ailments. Today, tea tree oil is widely available as an essential oil, and it is also popularly used alongside other ingredients in cosmetics, household cleansers and personal care products.
What are the benefits of tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil has a number of benefits, including:
- It has strong antibacterial properties;
- It is anti-inflammatory thanks to its high terpinen-4-ol content (a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties);
- It is anti-fungal and has the ability to kill certain yeasts and fungi;
- It has antioxidant properties and may assist the body in healing;
- It has soothing properties and may help relieve inflamed skin.
What is tea tree oil used for?
Because of its effective antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is a popular ingredient in topical skincare products, as well as in household and personal care products.
Some of its most popular uses include:
- Skincare for blemish-prone skin. Tea tree is effective when used in the treatment and prevention of acne, blemishes and other skin concerns.
- Insect repellent. Tea tree oil is helpful when trying to get rid of pesky flies and mosquitos.
- All-purpose cleaner. It makes a great natural sanitizer and cleaning agent.
- Dandruff treatment. Thanks to its anti-fungal properties, tea tree can be mixed into shampoo to help clear dandruff scales.
- Athlete’s foot. It is an effective alternative to athlete’s foot medications.
When shopping for a tea tree product, it’s important to choose a brand that’s known for the quality of their ingredients. Earthsap – a local gem – has been manufacturing earth-friendly personal care and cleaning products for over 20 years. Free from toxins and synthetic ingredients, this cruelty-free brand has several tea tree products available to address several concerns:
Earthsap Tea Tree Face Toner (R94.95)
Tone and refresh your skin with this natural cleansing toner formula, made with tea tree and aloe oils to nourish and protect your skin. This botanical blend will give you a naturally cleansed, healthy complexion without drying out your skin, plus it’s been enriched with nourishing vitamin E to combat free radical damage and slow the signs of ageing. It is mild enough for daily use and suitable for all skin types.
Earthsap Tea Tree & Peppermint Body Wash (R125.00)
If you’re looking for a cleansing tingle of freshness, and a blend of non-toxic natural ingredients, you’ve found your ideal body wash. Earthsap has blended tea tree oil, a potent antiseptic, with fresh and invigorating peppermint oil. The result is a foamy liquid body wash that not only leaves you feeling clean and fresh, but also gets the blood pumping and clears the mind.
Earthsap Tea Tree & Lemon Roll-On (R76.99)
This deodorant is made from pure ingredients and essential oils. It is free from aluminium and any other harmful chemical ingredients.
Earthsap Tea Tree Toilet Seat Sanitizer (R59.99)
This handy spray kills germs and helps to keep your bathroom clean and hygienic, using a natural formula that’s free of harsh synthetic chemicals. The compact spray bottle is ideal for travelling, so you can limit your family’s exposure to germs and bacteria in public restrooms as well.
Earthsap Tea Tree Foot Powder (R57.99)
This natural, talc-free foot powder is wonderfully refreshing and soothing, with antifungal properties to keep skin irritations away and smelly shoes at bay. A daily dusting of Earthsap’s foot powder, with cooling mint and antibacterial tea tree extract, will keep your feet happy from heel to toe. Whether you’re stepping out on an action-packed hike or slipping into your dancing shoes, you can trust this chemical-free powder form Earthsap to keep those busy feet fresh and dry for hours.
Earthsap Tea Tree Foot Spray (R67.99)
Step out in confidence with fresh, clean feet – this natural antifungal foot spray is made with tea tree oil to combat common skin irritations and odours. Pop this refreshing spray in your gym bag to keep smelly, sweaty feet at bay, or apply it in the mornings and evenings to revive those tired feet. Earthsap’s natural deodorising foot spray formula feels good and smells great, plus it’s made with a blend of biodegradable botanicals that are gentle on the Earth as well as your skin.
With so many different benefits, it’s easy to see why tea tree oil is such a versatile ingredient.
Shop Earthsap products online at Faithful to Nature and at selected heath shops nationwide.
