One of the most well known essential oils, Tea Tree oil, has become world renown for its ability to destroy a wide variety of bacteria, fungi, and viri. Tea Tree oil may have several advantages over conventional antibiotics when treating topical infections. There may be additional naturally occurring oils and compounds that can be used in conjuction with Tea Tree oil to enhance its medicinal properties. Products containing Tea Tree oil are a safe and viable alternative to products containing synthetic chemicals and/or antibiotics.

      Terpinen-4-ol is the main active compound within Tea Tree oil. Terpinen-4-ol is a wide spectrum germicide that is effective against many bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Studies have shown that bacteria and viruses are less likely to develop a resistance to Terpinen-4-ol when compared to conventional antibiotics.

    Several factors give Tea Tree oil a relative advantage when treating topical infection, especially its ability to penetrate and absorb into tissues. The compounds within Tea Tree oil have a small molecular size and can rapidly spread deep into infected tissues. Many studies have also demonstrated the oils ability to speed healing time and prevent scarring or reoccurrence of infection.

    Many other naturally occurring oils have been used in conjuction with Tea Tree oil to enhance its medicinal properties. Considered to be the most powerful astringent oil, Cypress essential oil has strong medicinal properties including; halting bleeding, speeding regeneration, reducing inflammation, fighting infection, and more. Cypress oil makes a perfect partner for Tea Tree. Another potential mate for Tea Tree oil is Olive Squalane, a naturally occurring replica of a valuable skin oil. Olive Squalane is not an essential oil, but has a low viscosity and is rapidly absorbed into the skin. It is a powerful antioxidant and protector of the top layers of skin. These oils and others can be used in combination with Tea Tree oil to make an even more effective disinfect and healing blend.

    Natural products containing Tea Tree oil are potentially a practical and viable alternative to synthetic chemicals and antibiotics in many circumstances. Whether treating a topical infection, cleaning the house, or treating your garden, you may benefit from using a natural product containing Tea Tree oil.

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• OShemesh, A., and W. L. Mayo. 1991. "Australian tea tree oil: a natural antiseptic and fungicidal agent." Aust. J. Pharm. 72:802-803

• Bishop, C.D. (1995). "Anti-viral Activity of the Essential Oil of Melaleuca alternifolia". Journal of Essential Oil Research: 641–644.

• Journal of Hospital Infection (2004; 56:283–286), cited in Beauchamp, Kimberly. 2004. "Tea Tree Oil and Staph". Bastyr Center for Natural Health.