Tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves of the tea tree plant native to Australia. It is said that captain cook had his morning tea made from tea tree leaves.

The scent is akin to pine. Fresh and sharp. Invigorating. This is an important oil in aromatherapy, valued for its immunity boosting and healing properties.

A bottle of tea tree oil is a first aid kit provided by nature.

Tangy and fresh. Tea tree oil is more than an air freshener. It kills bacteria. That’s why you’ll find it in pharmacies as antiseptic preparations and anti-acne treatments.

You can use it to treat boils and acne by applying a drop on the troubled spots every 3 hours.

It is said to have anti-viral properties and anti-fungal properties. It can be used to treat fungal infections. Just apply the oil undiluted on the infected area.

Essential oils have to be diluted before use as they are too concentrated and can irritate the skin when used neat. The only 2 exceptions I know of are lavender and tea tree oil.

Some sensitive individuals may not be able to use tea tree oil undiluted as it irritates or stings the skin, so test first before using it liberally.

As for its antiviral properties, it is typically mixed with lavender oil and diffused in the air in the rooms to supplement the treatment of viral infections. A few drops of lavender oil and tea tree oil can be added to bath water to boost the immune system.

For cuts and wounds, a few drops of the oil can be applied to the injured area after it has been washed, to disinfect the wound.

Tea tree oil is an excellent addition to your first aid kit.