1. Tea Tree Oil for Acne

Diluted tea tree oil can be a helpful ingredient in face wash, especially for acne-prone skin. A study in the Medical Journal of Australia found participants benefited more from using a gel containing 5% tea tree oil for the treatment of mild to moderate acne than a lotion containing 5% benzoyl peroxide (a common acne-fighting ingredient used in skincare products). The results suggested tea tree oil helped reduce both inflamed and non-inflamed lesions better than the benzoyl peroxide lotion. The tea tree oil gel did work slower than the benzoyl peroxide lotion, but it also led to fewer side effects.

2. Tea Tree Oil for Healthy Hair

This essential oil is often added to shampoo in various potencies to help relieve an itchy scalp, as well as restore hair’s natural luster. Some studies show tea tree oil used in combination with other essential oils like lavender oil may provide young women with relief from mild hirsutism, the growth of coarse, dark hair in areas where women typically grow fine hair or no hair at all. Additional research suggests tea tree oil can be beneficial in treating dandruff.

3. Tea Tree Oil for Improving Circulation

According to naturopathic physician and founder of Wise Woman Herbals Sharon Maire Tilgner,  tea tree oil can also be helpful for people with skin wounds, ulcers and bed sores.

“Tea tree is specifically indicated for external use in areas with decreased circulation and stagnation. Many people with diabetes, for instance, use tea tree oil neat (not diluted) on non-healing wounds with miraculous results,” she says. “I believe this [skin response] is due to a mix of antiseptic activity and the increase in local blood flow to the area. Decubitus ulcers or bed sores, another condition related to inadequate blood flow, are also quick to respond to tea tree oil’s healing action.”

4. Tree Tree Oil for Nail Health

Onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the nails, is a common condition that affects about 10% of adults. Tea tree oil is one of the few homeopathic remedies that can be effective in treating it.

Researchers from the Department of Dermatology at the University of California San Francisco tested a cream consisting of 2% butenafine hydrochloride and 5% tea tree oil among 60 participants with onychomycosis. After 16 weeks of use, 80% of participants cured their nail fungus.

5. Tea Tree Oil for Healthy Skin

Many skin ailments can lead to itching—common issues include fungus, athlete’s foot and ringworm. Research suggests tea tree oil can help alleviate these issues, especially when dealing with tinea pedis, or foot fungus. One study of 158 people noted a significant improvement in the presence of foot fungus after applying a diluted solution of tea tree oil for four weeks.

6. Tea Tree Oil as an Oral Wash

Many oral health companies add tea tree oil to their mouthwash products to help clean teeth and gums naturally. It’s also easy to make your own tea tree oil-powered oral rinse at home.

To make your own mouthwash:

• Add three drops of tea tree oil to a small glass of water.
• Swirl the mixture in your mouth, then spit out.
• Repeat every time you brush.

One study in the European Journal of Dentistry on the benefits of tea tree oil against gingivitis, plaque and bleeding gums suggests it can be a natural and effective solution for people who prefer it to traditional mouthwash products. However, be mindful not to swallow any tea tree oil-based oral rinse, as it’s not safe to ingest.

7. Tea Tree Oil as an Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Often used for its widespread antiseptic and antimicrobial benefits, tea tree oil can be used on cuts, burns, abrasions and boils. It can also be effective in treating certain kinds of staph infections. Due to its antiseptic and wound healing properties, many body piercing artists recommend using a diluted form of tea tree oil to help heal and clean piercings as well.

8. Tea Tree Oil for Respiratory Health

“Combined with lavender oil, tea tree oil is a great inhalation treatment for sinus or lung infections,” says Robinett. Try it in a bath or shower, diffuser or as a facial steam, she suggests.
Upgraded Formulation To Get You Back On Your Feet
Batch's relief balm are enriched with lavender, tea tree oils, jojoba oil and essential oils and eucalyptus oils for quick absorption and to calm irritated areas.

9. Tea Tree Oil as a Household Cleaner

Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a natural all-purpose cleaning spray can help boost the cleanliness of your home. (For best results, use the solution the same day it’s prepared.)

To make your own all-purpose cleaning spray:

• Mix three cups of water and a half-cup of white vinegar in a glass spray bottle.
• Add 10 to 12 drops of tea tree essential oil.
• Shake before use.

Generally, it’s best to test the cleaner on small sections of various surfaces before using it throughout your home.

10. Tea Tree Oil for General Wellness

“I use tea tree oil in my body wash and also as an essential oil for diffusing in the home when we want to clean and clear the air,” says Robinett. “The scent is also very invigorating, like peppermint, so it can be great for waking up or simply clearing the senses.”