“Tea Tree Oil” is how an essential oil known as Melaleuca is commonly referred to as. This oil is extracted from a tree belonging to the “Melaleuca alternifolia” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is basically derived from the leaves of the tree using the “steam distillation” process. In addition, the tree from which this oil is extracted can be frequently found in Australia in regions such Southeast Queensland and New South Wales.
A. Chemical constituents of Melaleuca Oil:
This oil is derived from the leaves of the tree known as “Tea Tree” belonging to the “Melaleuca alternifolia” species in the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil also consists of organic compounds such as Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Sabinene, Myrcene, Alpha Phellandrene, Alpha Terpinene, Limonene, Cineole, Gamma Terpinene, Para Cymene, Terpinolene, Linalool, Terpinenol and Alpha Terpineol.
B. The uses and benefits of the Melaleuca Oil:
There are a number of benefits an individual can gain by using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Antibacterial:
This oil when used helps in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, preventing bacterial infections, and thereby serves as an antibacterial.
2. Antiseptic:
This oil consists of an “antiseptic” property and helps in the treatment of internal and external wounds by destroying disease causing microorganism.
3. Expectorant:
This oil when used helps in stimulating the expulsion of mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system, and thereby serves as an expectorant.
4. Analgesic:
This oil when used also helps by relieving pain caused by headaches and sprains etc, and thereby serves as an analgesic.
5. Insecticide:
This oil is also “insecticidal” in nature and thereby helps in destroying insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, lies etc.
C. The adverse effects of the Melaleuca Oil:
There are couple adverse effects that could occur on using this oil. They are as follows:
- The use of this oil could lead to allergic reaction especially in those individuals who have sensitive skin.
- Since this oil is powerful it should not be consumed directly.
The inappropriate usage of this oil could lead to adverse effects such as hallucinations, drowsiness, unsteadiness, severe rash, vomiting, diarrhea etc.
