Tea tree, tea tree: benefits, virtues and use
Tea tree
The Tea Tree is a small tree with the botanical name of "Melaleuca alternifolia". A plant of the myrtaceae family, the tea tree is native to Australia (North).
It is also found in the warm areas of North America. Its dense and delicate foliage allows its cultivation in bonsai in China, and makes it decorative.
Photo Brittany Neale at Unsplash
The plant, which grows wild (in swamps, along rivers, in clay and sandy soils during heavy rains), is also cultivated in many parts of the world (Zimbabwe, New Zealand).
Long used as a disinfectant and antiseptic for skin care, its medical use expanded after World War II. Thanks to its therapeutic properties, it is effective in the treatment of many skin infections.
What are the therapeutic virtues of this plant? What are its benefits in the human body? How can we get the most benefit from it? Are there any contraindications? Summary...
Tea tree, for the record...
The varieties of the tea tree are diverse. There are about 150 species of trees and shrubs, including Cajeput (melaleuca cajeputii) and Niaouli (melaleuca quinquenervia).
Often confused with the tea plant, the particularity of this plant is linked to its maintenance. In fact, its maintenance at cool and humid temperatures, especially at night, is essential. This should be done in a bright room, but away from direct sunlight, to keep it in a permanent vegetative period.
The tea tree needs a lot of supervision. It is recommended to water it as soon as it shows hanging leaves or the substrate is dry to the touch. It sprouts very easily from the back and the young shoots that appear give it the desired shape. This shape will be maintained throughout the growing season.
Therefore, the essential oil is extracted from the thin leaves of the tea tree. It is a colorless liquid with a fresh, woody aroma.
Very present in cosmetics (creams, ointments, soaps, shampoos, etc.) as well as in organic foods, the tea tree is now cultivated for commercial purposes.
Tea tree: use, benefits and virtues
Thanks to its main biochemical components (gamma-terpinene and terpinen-4-ol), the tea tree is recommended in the treatment of skin lesions; in particular, foot fungus, eczema, ringworm, psoriasis.
It is an important and highly effective antibacterial, antifungal and anti-infective, and has also been shown to fight acne, furunculosis, warts, dandruff and even lice.
It also strengthens the body's immune system, relieves burns, sunburn and insect bites. contributes to oral hygiene, fights periodontal diseases, while giving a bright white teeth.
Its essential oil is a venous and lymphatic decongestant, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic and antiviral. Its benefits have been proven in cases of temporary fatigue, and in the fight against dust mites.
Experts have also discovered its therapeutic virtues in the treatment of vaginal infections.
A smart tip on the tea tree or tea tree
To treat skin infections (foot fungus, nail infections...), experts recommend mixing 2 drops of tea tree oil, 1 drop of lavender oil, with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Then apply it to the infected areas with a cotton swab several times a day.
To avoid allergic reactions, it is imperative to use diluted tea tree oil, never concentrated. Avoid sensitive areas (eyes, nose, mouth or genitals) and never ingest it. In such cases, consult a doctor.
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