Tea tree oil is one of the most popular essential oils on the market, and that’s because of its many benefits. Not only can it be used to treat ailments and diseases, but it also makes your home smell fresh and clean. Here are 8 surprising ways to use tea tree oil at home.
1) Get Rid of Pesky Pests
Mix together tea tree oil and water in a spray bottle and use it as a natural pest repellent for your home. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to cotton balls and place them around your home in areas where pests are known to congregate. If you’re dealing with an infestation, make sure to read our blog post on how to get rid of bugs for good!
2) Deodorize Your Garbage Disposal
Did you know that tea tree oil can help freshen up your garbage disposal? Just add a few drops of the oil to a cup of baking soda and scrub away. The combination of the two will leave your disposal smelling fresh and clean. Plus, it’s a natural way to get rid of bacteria and grime. Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to a dish with some water and 2-3 drops of tea tree oil.
Rub over surface with brush, let sit for 5 minutes, then rinse off with water. Got really bad smells coming from the drains in your sink or shower? Add 4-5 drops of tea tree oil to 1/4 cup bleach or 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent (it’ll foam) in an empty plastic spray bottle. Fill up with warm water and give it a good shake before spraying down drain area or shower stall to eliminate odors for good!
3) Keep Ants Out of the House
If you’re dealing with an ant problem, try this natural solution: mix together equal parts water and tea tree oil in a spray bottle and spritz it around your home’s perimeter. The strong scent will discourage ants from entering. And if they do come inside, the mixture is great for spraying on their little bodies.
Where Does All that Dandruff Come From? Dandruff can be embarrassing but luckily there are many ways to control it. Tea tree oil is one of them! Add a few drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo or conditioner for noticeably less dandruff flakes on your clothes and pillowcases after washing.
4) Clean Pores and Remove Blackheads
To unclog pores and remove blackheads, mix together one part tea tree oil and nine parts water, then apply the mixture to your face with a cotton ball. Leave it on for five minutes, then rinse with warm water. For best results, do this once a day.
You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your regular facial cleanser or moisturizer. Just be sure to start slowly, as tea tree oil can be drying if used in too high of a concentration.
5) Treat Rashes and Burns
Tea tree oil can be used to treat minor cuts, burns, and scrapes. Simply apply a small amount of oil to the affected area with a cotton ball or Q-tip. For more serious injuries, mix tea tree oil with lavender oil and apply it to the wound. Repeat this process until the wound heals. Clean Your Face With Tea Tree Oil: Mix 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil in with your regular face wash for an added cleansing boost. Soothe Your Sore Throat: Make yourself a cup of hot lemonade, then add 2 tablespoons of finely grated fresh ginger root, 1 teaspoon honey and 10 drops of lemon essential oil before stirring together well.
6) Prevent Dry Skin in Winter
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it feeling dry, tight, and itchy. But you don’t have to suffer! Tea tree oil can help prevent dry skin by keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
Here’s how to use tea tree oil for dry skin: mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 10 drops of tea tree essential oil in a small jar. Rub the mixture onto your hands or any other area that needs moisturizing after washing them or before bedtime. Or try adding 1 tablespoon of the mixture to a bath for an easy way to keep your skin from drying out during winter months.
7) Help Fight Fungal Infections
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal agent, which makes it great for treating fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm. To use, simply apply a few drops of diluted tea tree oil to the affected area. You can also add a few drops to your bathwater to help fight body-wide fungal infections. Additionally, you can mix it with coconut oil to create an all-natural anti-fungal cream.
8) Soothe Sore Throats
Tea tree oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, making it a perfect remedy for sore throats. Simply add a few drops of tea tree oil to a glass of warm water and gargle away. You can also add a drop or two of tea tree oil to your favorite throat lozenge recipe. The strong smell may be unappealing, but the flavor will be masked.