How to use tea tree oil to treat colds, warts and nail fungus

Tea tree oil has been known for centuries for its antibiotic properties. It is a popular remedy for acne and athlete’s foot, but can also be used against colds.

tea tree oil It can be applied directly to the skin, or as part of mixtures in creams or shampoos. We explain what it helps against and how you can use it correctly.

The origin of tea tree oil

The natural essential oil of the tea tree It is obtained from the leaves and twigs of the tree scientifically named melaleuca alternifolia by steam distillation. The leaves are harvested in the Australian summer, that is, between November and June.

The aborigines, The indigenous people of Australia have used the healing properties of tea tree oil for many generations. When the botanist Joseph Banks arrived in Australia around 1770 with the navigator James Cook, he observed how it was used by indigenous people to heal wounds and skin inflammations and brought it to Europe.

properties of tea tree oil, what is it for?

The spectrum of effects of Australian tea tree oil is very wide. The following active ingredients are responsible for the many positive properties of tea tree oil:

monoterpenes They have analgesic, stimulating and anti-inflammatory effects. The most abundant is terpinen-4-ol, which has regenerative, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects. In addition to terpinen-4-ol, tea tree oil also contains other terpene compounds, such as cineole, terpinolene and alpha-terpineol, They also have beneficial properties.Monoterpene oxide 1.8 cineole it has a liquefying effect and promotes the secretion and expectoration of mucus.sesquiterpenes They are responsible for good skin tolerance.

Due to these active ingredients, tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for inflammation, acne, psoriasis, nail fungus, and colds. Since the essential oil fights bacteria, viruses and fungi, it is recognized as a natural antibiotic.

tea tree oil for warts

Tea tree oil has proven its efficacy against warts. The strong antiviral properties can reduce its growth. It can also dry them out and cause them to fall.

Tea tree oil also prevents warts from becoming infected and speeds up the healing process. The oil can also relieve pain and itching, which are often associated with warts. For wart treatment, you can apply tea tree oil directly to the affected area of ​​skin.

You can follow the following procedure:

Tea tree oil can be an effective wart treatment due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are the steps to use tea tree oil to treat warts:

Wash the affected area with warm water and a mild soap to cleanse the skin.

Apply a small amount of tea tree oil directly to the wart, using a cotton swab or applicator swab.

Cover the wart with a bandage to prevent the tea tree oil from evaporating quickly and increase its effectiveness.

Repeat this process 2 times a day, for at least 2 weeks or until the wart disappears.

It’s important to note that tea tree oil can be irritating to some people, especially if applied to sensitive areas of the skin, such as the face or genitals. If you experience irritation, redness, or itching, discontinue use and consult a physician.

Tea tree oil for athlete’s foot and nail fungus

Thanks to its antifungal effect, tea tree oil has proven to be an effective weapon against athlete’s foot and nail fungus, as it inhibits the growth of fungi.

To treat athlete’s foot:

Wash your feet with warm water and a mild soap to cleanse the skin.

Dry your feet well with a clean towel, making sure they are completely dry before proceeding.

Apply a small amount of tea tree oil directly to the affected areas, using a cotton swab or applicator swab.

Gently massage the oil into the skin for a few minutes to help it absorb.

Let the oil dry completely before putting on your socks or shoes.

Repeat this process 2 times a day, for at least 2 weeks or until the symptoms disappear completely.

You can also make a foot bath: put a maximum of 5 drops in a tub of warm water and keep your feet in the footbath for about 15 minutes.

To treat nail fungus:

Follow the same procedure as to treat athlete’s foot, but apply the oil to the affected nails.

tea tree oil for colds

Tea tree oil is widely used as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory ailments. It can help relieve symptoms such as a sore throat by soothing the mucous membrane and reducing inflammation. Tea tree oil contains antimicrobial properties that help fight bacteria and viruses.

Aromatherapist Annabelle Stieger recommends tea tree oil for colds, for example as a mouthwash and gargle:

Add 1-2 drops of tea tree oil to a small glass of warm water. It is important not to exceed the recommended amount of tea tree oil, as it can be irritating to the throat and mouth.

Stir the water so that the tea tree oil disperses into the water.

Take a sip of the solution and gargle for 30 seconds, making sure the liquid reaches the back of your throat.

Spit out the liquid and repeat the process until the contents of the glass are finished.

Wash your mouth with cool water to wash away the taste and avoid irritation.

Repeat this process 2-3 times a day, or as needed to relieve sore throat symptoms.

It is important to note that tea tree oil should not be ingested, as it can be toxic in large amounts. If you experience any type of irritation or adverse reaction, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Inhalation is not entirely advisable since there are oils that work better such as Eucalyptus radiata. Asthmatics should be careful when handling these oils and should consult a doctor or aromatherapist before using them.

Also you can make a balm to apply on the chest at night using coconut oil to which about 3 drops of tea tree oil is added. It can also be applied on the back.

Can tea tree oil be used on the genitals?

not recommended apply tea tree oil directly to the genitals or sensitive areas of the body without diluting it properly.

Tea tree oil is a concentrated essential oil that can be irritating to the skin and cause sensitivity or adverse reactions in these sensitive areas. Also, apply undiluted tea tree oil to the genitals can upset the natural balance of vaginal flora and cause infections or irritations.

If you wish to use tea tree oil to treat a condition on the genitals, it is recommended that you speak with a doctor for specific recommendations and to apply it safely. In general, it is recommended dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil, before applying it to the skin.

It is also recommended to test a small area of ​​skin (on the inside of the elbow, for example) before applying tea tree oil to a larger area to ensure there are no adverse reactions.

Can you ingest tea tree oil?

tea tree oil it is not suitable for internal use. The intake of essential oils is not recommended, therefore taking the oil is not in question.

What side effects can tea tree oil have?

When used correctly, the risk of side effects from tea tree oil is very low. It is important that do not use on open wounds and avoid contact with eyes.

Also you should perform a tolerance test before use, as tea tree oil can trigger allergies. To do this, apply a drop on the inside of your arm. If there are no side effects such as skin redness after an hour, you can assume that you tolerate the tea tree oil.

However, you must wait 24 hours to rule out an allergy. The allergy only develops through frequent or prolonged contact with the essential oil and is noticeable through severe redness.

Buy tea tree oil

When buying, you should trust pure (no additives) and organic tea tree oil. There are many brands available in the market.