Tea tree oil, which is scientifically known as Melaleuca alternifolia is an herb native to Australia but now grows in California as well. It holds antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties.

Tea tree oil's phytochemical content includes alpha-pinene, alpha-terpineol, aromadendrene, beta-pinene, camphor, caryophyllene, limonene, linalool, 1,8-cineole, p-cymene, terpinenes and terpinolene.

Recent evidence on tree oil shows it to be effective in countering the action of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), also known as the hospital super bug. In the United States and Europe MRSA grew nearly 75% from the 1980s to the late 1990s. People with wounds and a weakened immune system are vulnerable to MRSA and the bug resists most conventional antibiotics.

As an expectorant when inhaled, tea tree oil has a soothing effect, making it a recommendation among many for the treatment of throat and chest infections, as well as breaking up mucus in the chest. It can also be used as a wash, massage oil, compress, salve and a gargle (do not swallow) for mouth sores.

Tea tree essential oil remains a top recommendation among many experts as a natural antiseptic for skin infections. By instantly penetrating outer skin layers and mixing with body oils, the oil can effectively treat conditions such as sunburn cuts, acne, infected wounds, bruises, insect bites boils, scabies, burns, lice, hives, poison ivy, diaper rash, prickly heat and warts.

The pain-numbing properties of tea tree oil make it a great choice for arthritis, bursitis, eczema, sprains, hemorrhoids carpal tunnel syndrome and gout when applied topically.

Tea tree's antifungal properties have been demonstrated in numerous studies.

In one randomized controlled trial involving 158 people with athlete's foot being treated with a 25% tea tree oil solution, 50% tea tree oil solution, or placebo, the groups being treated with the tea tree oil solutions had much better results than those who took the placebo. Specifically, 64 % of the 50% tea tree oil groups were cured. .

The Journal of Family Practice published a randomized, controlled trial which studied 100% tea tree oil being applied twice a day versus 1% clotrimazole solution (a topical antifungal medication) in 177 people with toenail fungal infection. After a 6 month period both treatments were found to be equally effective but the tee tree oil had less side effects.

Tea tree oil is typically found as a pure essential oil. It is also used in shampoos, mouthwashes, toothpastes, creams and soaps. I personally use many products that contain tea tree oil, including “Thoroughly Clean Face Wash” by the company Desert Essence. This is a natural herbal face wash that contains organic tea tree oil.

* Important note: Tea tree oil shouldn't be taken internally. If irritation, redness or itching develops, dilute with primrose oil or vitamin E oil.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using tea tree oil or any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.