15 Fantastic Uses For Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree is an essential oil that is extracted from a plant native to Australia. Used medically for health and beauty purposes, it is known for it's antiseptic and antifungal properties. You can soothe, heal and even clean with tea tree - WOW a little bottle with many uses!

Find out what you can do with tea tree oil here, and if you like the article please feel free to share it with your friends and family.

1. Make your own mouthwash

Mouthwash is great for a quick refresh but, if you find that your mouth feels less than fresh after just 30 minutes, give this a try. Battle halitosis all day with your very own long-lasting mouthwash.

Tea tree has antibacterial properties that can kill bad bacteria in the mouth - the main cause of bad breath. Mix two drops of tea tree oil with one drop of peppermint oil in a cup of water. Swirl around your mouth and spit to reveal a fresher mouth.

2. Deodorise your washing machine

Does your machine smell a bit damp? It can get like that if you've forgotten to take the washing out.

You can freshen up the washing machine by adding 10-15 drops of tea tree oil into the empty drum and putting it through a short but hot cycle for 30 minutes. This will help get rid of any bacteria lurking in the drum and zap that funky odour.

3. Anti-bacterial foot soak

If your feet smell less than daisy fresh, this could be caused by bacteria or fungus. Make sure you give your feet an anti-bacterial soak from time to time.

Simply pour some boiling water into a large basin and add several sprigs of rosemary for 10-15 minutes. While this is steeping, combine 12-15 drops of tea tree oil and 3 tablespoons of oil (almond, olive, jojoba or coconut are all fine) in a small bowl.

Add the tea tree oil mixture to the water and let your feet soak for 15-20 minutes. Just give it a swish every few minutes to combine any separation between oil and water.

4. Toothbrush, retainer & mouth guard cleaner

Bacteria loves moisture which is why you should be cleaning anything that goes into your mouth - especially your toothbrush!

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with one cup of water, and soak your toothbrush or mouth guard in it every other day to ward off any bad bacteria. Allow them to dry before putting back into their containers or into the cupboard.

5. Muscle soak

When combined with Epsom salts, tea tree oil provides relief from muscle tension and soreness. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, together with the magnesium from the salts it can provide instant relief from tight, sore or inflamed muscles and deep knots.

Dilute 10-15 drops of tea tree oil in a half a cup of bath oil (olive oil, coconut or almond will also do) then combine with half a cup of Epsom salts. Add to a hot bath and enjoy a nice hot soak. Your muscles should feel nice and loose afterwards.

6. Soothe a sore throat

At the first sign of a sore throat, help fight off infection and soothe any inflamed mucous membranes by having a tea tree oil mouth wash.

Just add a drop or two to a cup of drinking water and give your mouth a good swish and a swirl, but try not to swallow any of it. You can also choose to add a teaspoon of salt to help reduce swelling and ease any discomfort.

7. Make your own hand sanitizing gel

Tea tree oil is known for its ability to kill different forms of bacteria, germs and fungi. According to Everyday Roots, this is due to its main antibacterial component Terpinen-4-ol. This component has shown its effectiveness against different germs including E.coli.

With just some tea tree oil, lavender, witch hazel and aloe vera gel you can make your own hand gel that smells lovely and works naturally to fight germs. To find out how to make it visit their article on how to make a homemade hand sanitizer.

8. A natural alternative to lice treatment

If your child has a recurring lice problem or you don't wish to frequently use harsh chemicals on their scalp, it's worth trying tea tree oil as a natural alternative.

When mixed with pure lavender oil it's shown to be effective in killing lice and eggs. You can also help prevent lice by adding a drop or two to their shampoo every other wash.

9. Refresh your cushions and throws

Decorative cushions, throws and curtains are not easily laundered so, to avoid any stale smells or mustiness, give them a spritz of tea tree oil every few weeks. The tea tree will help banish any lingering germs within the fibres making them feel clean again.

In a spray bottle, fill with one cup of water and 1/2 teaspoon of tea tree oil then shake to mix. It will start to separate but you can keep shaking until you're ready to spray the material from two feet away. Leave to air dry.

10. Make your own cleansing wipes

If you suffer from blemishes, you may already be aware that tea tree oil is fantastic for soothing inflammation and disinfecting spots. It's been used as a natural remedy to acne for decades, but some people find it too strong on sensitive skins.

To help use tea tree oil in the best possible way for your skin, try making your own cleansing wipes. All you need is some kitchen roll, or laundered baby wipes, tea tree oil and coconut oil. 

11. DIY deodorant

If you're looking for a natural alternative to strong deodorant sprays and roll-ons, grab yourself a bottle of tea tree oil and some kitchen supplies.

You'll need:

• 15 drops tea tree oil
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/3 cup baking soda
• 5 tbsp melted Coconut Oil

12. Treat scalp conditions

You can treat many scalp conditions such as an itchy scalp, dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis with tea tree oil. The easiest way to apply tea tree to the scalp is by mixing 9 parts carrier oil (almond, coconut, grapeseed etc) to 1 part tea tree oil, and massage your scalp for 5-10 minutes.

Do this 2-3 times a week and the anti-fungal properties in the tea tree oil will help fight off any bacteria and infection in the scalp. As an anti-inflammatory, it will also provide instant relief from an itchy, dry scalp. 

Mix the baking soda and cornstarch with the melted coconut oil then add the tea tree oil and give it a good stir. Pour it into an airtight container, an empty Vaseline tin would be ideal. Use sparingly and rub the hardened oil onto your underarms every morning

13. Mildew buster

Get rid of stubborn mould and mildew in your bathroom by combining 1 cup of white vinegar and 25 drops of tea tree oil in an empty spray bottle. Spray generously onto the stubborn patches and leave for 15 minutes before wiping away with a damp sponge.

14. Air Freshener for the kitchen

When you've been cooking strong smelling foods and the smell is still lingering around your home, it's time to get out the tea tree! Make some homemade air freshener balls in advance to soak up the smell. 

Take some cotton wool balls and spray them with tea tree oil (dilute tea tree oil with water first) and leave them in an airtight container. Take them out when you need them and place them around the kitchen.

15. Make your own zit zapper

When you have a particularly big spot you may panic and turn to a spot treatment to help calm it down. These can be quite expensive, so why not make your own? For your very own spot treatment, just follow Look Good Naturally's quick and easy way to make homemade zit zapper post. 

Can you think of any other ways to use tea tree oil? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!