Everything about Tea Tree Oil: Let's know exactly its pros and cons?

You've probably heard of 'Tea Tree Oil', right? Maybe a friend told you that it's good for acne. Or maybe you've seen this name on a bottle of shampoo you use. This name is often mentioned when talking about beauty products and natural care. So what exactly is this tea tree oil? Is it really as beneficial as we think? If you use it, how is it done? Let's talk about it all in a simple way today.

Simply put, what is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil is an essential oil obtained by steam distillation from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (scientific name: `(Melaleuca alternifolia)`). Simply put, it is a highly concentrated extract of the plant. It has been used by the Aboriginal people of Australia for over 100 years as a natural medicine and topical antiseptic . Today, we find it as an essential oil, as an ingredient in some cosmetics, and in cleaning products. In some places, it is also called `(Melaleuca oil)`.

What are the main benefits of tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil is known for its ability to kill germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. That's why people use it for a variety of things. But keep in mind, there hasn't been enough scientific research to prove that it's 100% effective for many of these things. Below are some of the most common uses of tea tree oil.

How about acne?

Tea tree oil is believed to be a good solution for acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Some studies have shown that using tea tree oil reduces the number of acne breakouts and controls oiliness of the skin. Although it does not have as fast results as the acne medication `(Benzoyl peroxide)`, it has been shown that tea tree oil has fewer side effects.

For scalp and hair

You may have noticed that some shampoos you use contain tea tree oil. Its antifungal properties can help relieve dandruff and itchy scalp . In one study, people who used a shampoo containing 5% tea tree oil daily for 4 weeks saw a 41% reduction in dandruff and itching. It is also said to be able to kill lice and nits.

For fungal infections of the nails

Fungal nail infections can be difficult to treat because some types of fungus are resistant to medication. In some studies, up to 80% of people who applied tea tree oil twice a day for six months had their fungal infections cleared. But scientists say more research is needed to confirm this.

How should tea tree oil be used?

This is a very important part, because if used incorrectly, there is a high chance that it will cause harm instead of good.

How exactly do you dilute?

This is very simple. If you take 1 or 2 drops of tea tree oil, you need to add about 12 drops of a carrier oil to it. Some types of carrier oils are:

• Coconut oil
• Argan oil
• Jojoba oil
• Olive oil

Even after diluting it this way, before applying it to your entire face or a large area of ​​skin, apply a small amount to a small area, such as the inside of your arm, and wait 24 hours to see if you have an allergic reaction (patch test). Use only if there is no redness or itching.

Let's also be aware of side effects and risks.

Although tea tree oil is said to be safe for use on the skin, some people may experience side effects. It is important to be aware of this. If you accidentally ingest tea tree oil, immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU). Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.Also, the use of tea tree oil is not recommended for pregnant and nursing mothers, and young children, as there is not yet enough data on its safety in these individuals. Tea Tree Oil, Acne Treatment, Skin Diseases, Fungal Infections, Eczema, Natural Care