TEA TREE (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Character Vigorous, revitalising, regenerating

Tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves and branches of the tea tree, a small tree belonging to the myrtle family, and a native of the marshland of new South Wales. It acquired its name when Captain Cook's sailors used it to brew a substitute for tea. Tea Tree oil is a powerful antiseptic and fungicide and boosts the depleted immune system. Its wide range of medicinal uses has been verified by research. In the 1920s and 30s, laboratory research in Australia confirmed that it was not only a very strong antiseptic but non-toxic and non-irritant. A report noted that it dissolves pus, leaving infected wounds clean. During World War II it was issued in army tropical first aid kits, but the development of antibiotics led to the decline of its use. A 1972 study showed that tea Tree was effective in many foot problems, including athlete's foot, corns, bunions and other fungal infections. It has also been used by practitioners to treat ringworm and thrush and more recently it has been found helpful with Candida albicans and chronic cystitis. It is an ideal first aid home remedy; for serious chronic conditions readers should consultant a qualified practitioner.

Aroma Medicinal, penetrating

Properties Powerful antiseptic, anti viral, bactericide, cleansing, detoxifying, fungicide, insecticide, purifying, stimulating.

Physical conditions Eliminatory system Used to treat urinary infections, cystitis and candida

Hair and scalp Impetigo, head lice; dry scalp and dandruff

Immune system Activates the white blood cells to fight infection

Respiratory system Combats infections of the throat, lungs and ears; bad breath

Skin Very cleansing; antiseptic for acne, boils, cuts, wounds bites; effective with corns, warts, verrucas; fights fungal infections (e.g. athlete's foot, ringworm) sooths and heals irritating/itchy conditions-chicken pox rash, psoriasis, impetigo, nappy rash, genital itching, pruritis; treatment for mouth/gum infections.

Mental/emotional conditions Refreshing and revitalising; for feelings of uncleanness; for over-protection with detail.

Other uses None at present

Applications Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Footbath. Hair oil/rinse. Inhalation. Massage. Mouthwash. Room fragrance.

Blends well with Best used alone