Tea Tree Leaves and Oil
Native to only one place in the world, tea tree (melaleuca alternifolia) has medicinal properties. According to Holistic Online, tea tree oil is active against three categories of infectious organisms because it acts as an immunostimulant. With its health-promoting properties, tea tree oil (readily available at whole food grocers) has been used for home remedies.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree originates from a tree indigenous to New South Wales, Australia. Tea tree leaves are used to make medicinal tea tree oil. Tea tree oil helps fight against bacteria, fungi and viruses. Its immunosuppressant properties can help people who cannot fend off infections and who may slowly recover from illnesses. The benefits of tea tree oil include its ability to treat acne, colds and flu, cold sores and shingles, among other uses.
Properties
Prescription for Nutritional Healing details tea tree oil's phytochemicals, which include alpha-pinene, aromadendrene, beta-pinene and terpinolene. Used topically, tea tree oil acts as a disinfectant, and heals nearly every skin condition, as well as hair and scalp problems. Although tea tree oil can be used as a gargle for colds and cold sores, it should never be swallowed.
Home Remedies
"Oddball Ointments" offers a simple remedy for athlete's foot. Tea tree oil's antifungal properties can ease athlete's foot. Smooth a light coating of oil on the affected area. Do this for two weeks, even after the infection appears to be gone, to be rid of the fungus. To treat mild acne, moisten a cotton swab with tea tree oil. Dab affected areas twice a day (see Resources). Soothe mosquito bites by massaging a couple of drops onto the bite.
Tags: athlete foot, cold sores, colds cold, colds cold sores, Home Remedies