Learn 17 (VERY) handy ways to use tea tree oil!
Are you an essential oil enthusiast? You’ve heard of tea tree oil and bought yourself a bottle but rarely use it (if ever)?
Time to make the most of that FABULOUS oil!! Below, 17 incredible ways to start using this oil at home. FROM TODAY, no excuses.
(If you haven’t got tea tree oil at home, time to give it a try. HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED ONE. If you purchase using my link I might get a commission at no extra cost to you.)
Tea tree oil has potent antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. – Scientific source.
READY?? SCROLL, TAKE NOTE, DO! 💪💪💪
Tea tree oil in skincare….
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1. Effective acne treatment (banish blemishes)
How to use: Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil, or add 2-3 drops to your favourite moisturiser. Apply the mixture to clean, affected areas of the skin once or twice daily. Consistency is key – keep using this treatment for at least 2 weeks to see those blemishes bid farewell!
What it will do exactly: The tea tree oil will help combat acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote clearer skin.
Note: Remember to patch test first to ensure you don’t have any sensitivity to the oil. Better safe than sorry, right?
2. Removes nail fungus (for clear nails)
How to use: Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the affected nails and surrounding skin twice daily, using a clean cotton swab. Be patient and consistent – it may take several weeks to see improvement.
What it will do exactly: The antifungal properties of tea tree oil will help combat nail fungus, promoting clearer, healthier-looking nails.
Note: If the condition persists or worsens after a few weeks of use, consult a healthcare professional.
3. Soothes skin (calms irritation and redness)
How to use: Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or aloe vera gel. Apply the mixture to the affected areas of the skin, such as insect bites, rashes, or minor skin irritations, as needed.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory properties will help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and provide relief from itching and discomfort.
Note: If you have sensitive skin or are unsure about using tea tree oil, perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more extensively.
4. Proper cleans your make up brushes
How to use: Mix 1 tablespoon of mild soap with 1 cup of warm water and 5-10 drops of tea tree oil. Swirl your makeup brushes in the solution, gently massaging the bristles to remove dirt and makeup residue. Rinse the brushes thoroughly with clean water and allow them to air dry.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial properties will help disinfect your makeup brushes, eliminating bacteria and other germs that can cause skin irritation or breakouts.
Note: Clean your makeup brushes regularly, ideally once a week, to maintain good hygiene and extend the life of your brushes.
5. No more stinky feet!
How to use: Mix 5-10 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of baking soda and sprinkle the mixture inside your shoes. Alternatively, add a few drops of tea tree oil to a foot bath with warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties will help combat foot odour by eliminating the bacteria and fungi that cause it, leaving your feet smelling fresh and clean.
Note: For persistent foot odour or fungal issues, consider using tea tree oil consistently in your foot care routine and ensure your feet are thoroughly dried after bathing or sweating.
6. Fixes damaged cuticles
How to use: Mix 1-2 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. Using a clean nail brush or cotton swab, gently massage the mixture into your cuticles and nail beds. Allow the oil to absorb for 5-10 minutes, then gently push back your cuticles with a cuticle pusher or orange stick.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties will help soften and nourish dry, damaged cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth and preventing hangnails. The oil’s antibacterial properties can also help protect your nails and cuticles from infection.
Note: For best results, incorporate this cuticle care routine into your weekly self-care regimen. Consistency is key to maintaining healthy, beautiful nails and cuticles.
7. Protects those chapped lips
How to use: Mix 1-2 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or shea butter. Apply a small amount of the mixture to your lips as needed, especially before bedtime or when spending time outdoors.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties will help soothe chapped, irritated lips while providing a protective barrier against environmental stressors. The oil can also help prevent and treat cold sores, which are often triggered by dry, cracked lips.
Note: Be careful not to ingest tea tree oil, as it can be toxic if swallowed. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to use a lower concentration of tea tree oil in your lip balm mixture.
Tea tree for your hair & scalp…
8. Eliminates dandruff effectively
How to use: Mix 5-10 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or your favourite hair oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp, focusing on the affected areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight, then shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties will help combat dandruff and soothe dry, itchy scalp, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
Note: Use this treatment 1-2 times per week for best results. If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration of tea tree oil and gradually increase if needed.
9. Helps your hair grow faster
How to use: Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of jojoba or castor oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair roots, focusing on thinning or balding areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then shampoo and condition as usual.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil helps unclog hair follicles and nourish the scalp, creating an optimal environment for hair growth. Its stimulating properties may help improve blood circulation in the scalp, promoting stronger, healthier hair.
Note: Consistency is key when using tea tree oil for hair growth. Use this treatment 2-3 times per week for at least 6-8 weeks to see noticeable results.
10. A hand sanitiser that kills germs on the go
How to use: Mix 10-15 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel and 1 teaspoon of witch hazel in a small, travel-sized bottle. Shake well before each use and apply a small amount to your hands, rubbing them together until the mixture evaporates.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s powerful antibacterial properties will help eliminate germs and bacteria on your hands, providing a natural alternative to chemical-laden hand sanitisers.
Note: This homemade hand sanitiser is not a substitute for handwashing with soap and water, which is always the most effective way to clean your hands. Use this sanitiser when soap and water are not available.
11. Boosts your body’s natural defenses
How to use: Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to a diffuser or humidifier and inhale the vapors for 15-20 minutes daily. You can also mix 1-2 drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the soles of your feet or chest before bedtime.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties can help support your immune system by fighting off harmful pathogens and promoting a healthy environment in your body.
Note: While tea tree oil can support your immune system, it should not be used as a sole treatment for any illness. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of health issues.
For the house and cleaning…
12. Powerful all-purpose cleaner (toxin-free cleaning spray!!)
How to use: Mix 10-15 drops of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and spray on surfaces such as countertops, tables, and doorknobs. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties will help disinfect and clean surfaces, eliminating germs and leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.
Note: Always spot test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area before using it on delicate or porous surfaces to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discolouration.
13. Removes mould/mildew (tackles stubborn bathroom and kitchen grime)
How to use: Mix 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray the solution directly onto mouldy or mildewy areas, such as shower curtains, grout lines, or damp walls. Allow the solution to sit for 30 minutes, then scrub the area with a bristled brush and rinse thoroughly.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antifungal properties will help combat mould and mildew, effectively cleaning and disinfecting affected areas in your home.
Note: For tough or extensive mould and mildew growth, you may need to repeat the process several times or use a stronger concentration of tea tree oil. Always ensure proper ventilation when cleaning with tea tree oil.
14. Freshens (and disinfects) your laundry naturally
How to use: Add 5-10 drops of tea tree oil to your washing machine during the rinse cycle or mix it with a cup of baking soda and sprinkle it into the drum before adding your clothes. For an extra boost of freshness, place a few drops of tea tree oil on a damp cloth and toss it in the dryer with your laundry.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial properties will help eliminate odors and freshen your laundry, while also providing a natural way to disinfect your clothes and linens.
Note: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, start with a smaller amount of tea tree oil and gradually increase it to find the right balance for your laundry needs.
Tea tree oil for health and wellness…
15. Helps you breathe better (alleviates congestion)
How to use: Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to a bowl of hot water. Drape a towel over your head and the bowl, creating a tent-like structure. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes, taking deep breaths through your nose. Alternatively, mix 1-2 drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your chest and neck before bedtime.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate respiratory issues, such as congestion, sinus infections, and bronchial infections. Inhaling the oil’s vapors can help open up airways and promote clearer breathing.
Note: If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, consult with your healthcare provider before using tea tree oil for respiratory support.
16. Treats athlete’s foot (and heals itchy, irritated feet)
How to use: Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to clean, dry feet, focusing on the affected areas between the toes and on the soles of the feet. Massage the mixture into the skin and allow it to absorb. Repeat this process twice daily until the athlete’s foot clears up.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antifungal properties will help combat the fungus responsible for athlete’s foot, reducing itching, burning, and scaling. The oil will also help soothe and heal the irritated skin.
Note: To prevent athlete’s foot from recurring, keep your feet clean and dry, and consider applying a small amount of the tea tree oil mixture to your feet often as a preventive measure.
17. Cleans your toothbrush!!
How to use: Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water in a small glass or jar. Soak your toothbrush in the solution for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water before using it again.
What it will do exactly: Tea tree oil’s antibacterial properties will help disinfect your toothbrush, eliminating bacteria and germs that can accumulate on the bristles over time. This can help keep your oral hygiene tools clean and fresh, reducing the risk of reintroducing bacteria into your mouth.
Note: While tea tree oil can help keep your toothbrush clean, it should not be used as a substitute for regular toothbrush replacement. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn.
Bonus uses
ESSENTIAL OILS are simply … essential!
There you have it. 17 easy ways to put your tea tree oil at work.
What are you waiting for?