Dear readers,
Melaleuca, commonly known as tea tree oil, is one of the nature’s best defense for bacteria, viruses and fungus. In fact, it is so powerful and has been shown to destroy MRSA (methicillin-resistant staph) in vitro (1). Tea tree oil was also found to inhibit 301 different types of yeasts isolated from the mouth of cancer patients suffering from advanced cancer, including 41 strains that are known to be resistant to anti fungal drugs (2). It is also a strong anti-inflammatory substance which been documented to shown positive affects on acnes and dermatitis (3,4).
Here are details of this powerful Melaleuca (Tea Tree)oil:
Properties: Analgesic (ease pain), antibacterial, anti fungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory.
Historical Uses: The leaves of the melaleuca tree have been used for centuries by the aborigines to heal cuts, wounds, and skin infections. With twelve times the antiseptic power of phenol, it has some strong immune-building properties.
French Medicinal Uses: Athlete’s foot, bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea, flu, periodontal (gum) disease, rash, skin healing, sore, throat, sunburn, tonsillitis, vaginal thrush.
Other Possible Uses: This oil may help burns, digestion, hysteria, infection disease, mites, and ticks.
Body System (s) affected: Immune and Respiratory Systems, muscles, bones and skins.
Ways to use:
Aromatic Influence: it promotes cleaning and purifying microorganism in the air.
Topical: Blend with coconut oil for affected area. Repeated use can possible result in contact sensitization.
Dr. Wu DC’s comment:
You might have heard me said this multiple times before, and Melaleuca is one of my favorite and travels with me all the time. It is powerful, effective and pleasant immune enhancer and bacterial destroyer. Speaking of travel, with holiday seasons coming up, lots of us have already planned out travel itineraries. Melaleuca, along with On Guard oil (from last essential oil post) are two of the best defenders in crowed areas such in planes, trains or bart. Dab some on your neck to enhance your immune system so you don’t catch bad bugs and enjoy this holiday season. I have also seen very profound results with acne, athlete’s foot and skin infection. This is a really good one to have and should be part of your essential oil kits. With that being said, for disclaimer, it is always recommended to dilute with carrier oil for kids and make sure you consult with your physician if you are pregnant.
References:
- Antibacterial effect of tea-tree oil on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation of the tympanostomy tube: an in vitro study. Park H., 2007 Nov-Dec;21(6):1027-30.
- Antifungal, Cytotoxic, and Immunomodulatory Properties of Tea Tree Oil and Its Derivative Components: Potential Role in Management of Oral Candidosis in Cancer Patients. Ramage et al., Front Microbiol. 2012; 3: 220
- A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne. Bassett IB et al., Med J Aust. 1990 Oct 15;153(8):455-8.
- Tea tree oil reduces the swelling associated with the efferent phase of a contact hypersensitivity response. Brand C et al., Inflamm Res. 2002 May;51(5):236-44.
- “Modern Essentials: A Contemporary Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 5th edition.
