Tea tree oil is an extremely versatile essential oil.  It is both an anti-fungal and anti-microbial essential oil.  This gives it many uses, both cosmetic and medical, from disinfecting cuts, to aromatherapy, to helping with dandruff.  Five common uses for tea tree oil are listed below.

1. Bathroom Products – Tea tree oil can be used in almost any bathroom product, including deodorant, aftershave, soap, and tooth paste.  Because of it’s anti-microbial tendencies, tea tree oil can be very effective in controlling odors, and can even be used as a remedy for bad breath, if the proper precautions and dosage is used.
2. Treating Skin Conditions – Psoriasis, eczema, oily skin and acne can all be treated with tea tree oil, which is another reason why it is so popular in toiletries.  A couple of drops in the bath can not only help these conditions, but can also help relieve the symptoms of a variety of other afflictions, from yeast infections and nail fungus, to ringworm and rashes.  There are different methods of administering tea tree oil for each specific ailment.  For example, a couple of drops of tea tree oil on an infected nail a couple of times a day should help clear it up, and it can be combined with other products to make an effective astringent for those plagued by acne.
3. Hair Care – Tea tree oil is also used in many hair care products as an effective dandruff remedy.  It is also helpful for those with oily hair and scalps.  It also plays and important role by getting rid of head lice.  Since tea tree oil is all natural, there are virtually no side effects of using it as a remedy, in comparison with other head lice treatments.
4. As a Fragrance – Many colognes and perfumes are enhanced with tea tree oil.  The scent of it is quite strong by itself, but when combined with other fragrances, it adds a very pleasing element.  It is used mostly in men’s colognes or unisex scents.
5. In the Home – Many disinfectants contain tea tree oil, especially those that are natural products.  It is a great multi-purpose disinfectant and toilet cleaner when combined with vinegar and water.

Bonus:  Medicinally – Coughs and sinus infections can be relieved by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to boiling water, or a humidifier.  Not only does the smell have an opening effect, much like eucalyptus, but since the essential oil is germicidal as well – it can actually relieve some of the infection that is causing the symptoms.  Applied directly to the affected area, tea tree oil can also help alleviate pain associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

With all the available uses for this amazing essential oil, it is surprising that it is not a staple in every household.  The fact is that people simply don’t know how many things can be done with it.  The list here is nowhere near complete.  I’ve been using it to relive my insect bites and assorted infections for years now.  This incredible little essential oil is one that has a permanent place in my home.

Where in your lifestyle could you benefit from the properties of tea tree oil?