Even if you’re not well-versed in the world of natural and essential oils, chances are you’ve read that tea tree oil is an all-in-one ingredient with the ability to fix almost anything. Above all, some swear by it as a fast-acting acne treatment—and, as we know, blemishes big or small can be notoriously difficult to remove. Just dab some onto a cotton ball, swipe over your problem areas, and voila: clear skin.
But there are way more uses for tea tree oil than just treating acne-prone skin. According to the internet, it can also be used as a detergent, a gargle, a bug repellent… the list goes on! Scroll down to learn 19 unexpected, bizarre, and super-practical uses you probably didn’t know existed.
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1. To treat wounds.
Tea tree oil is a super-effective treatment for healing open wounds, due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
2. To fight fungus.
The same way you’d apply tea tree oil to your skin with a cotton ball, it’s recommended to paint some on your toenails two to three times per day with a Q-tip if you’re struggling with foot fungus.
3. As pest control.
Many insects don’t like the pungent odor of tea tree oil (and we can’t say we like it much, either). Mix one part TTO with 10 parts water for a spray-on bug repellent that’s all-natural!
4. To treat a sore throat?
TTO might be a miracle product, but we can’t promise it tastes good. In fact, if swallowed, it can be toxic. For this reason, Poison Control suggests that you don’t use tea tree oil in or around the mouth—though some people say they gargle it to treat sore throats. We, however, recommend playing it safe. Stick to your cough drops!
MORE: The Best Lightweight Oils for Getting the Summer Moisture You Need
5. To soothe sunburns.
It’s been said that mixing tea tree oil with olive oil results in an effective sunburn treatment. Simply rub it into the affected skin, and let it soak in!
6. As an all-purpose cleaner.
Wishing you could get your countertops sparkling clean, without the use of harsh chemicals? Luckily for you, all-natural tea tree oil acts as a cleaner. Just use the same formula you’d use for insect repellent (one part TTO, 10 parts water)!
7. As a gargle for bad breath?
Like we said, Poison Control suggests you don’t use tea tree oil in or around the mouth, so as not to risk toxic ingestion. However, some traditional uses of TTO include turning it into a gargle, which supposedly fixes bad breath by killing bacteria! But you’re definitely better off with some Altoids.
8. To prevent or kill lice.
Lice, similarly to other insects, hate tea tree oil. It supposedly kills them upon contact! Mix a few drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo to prevent lice, or (if you’re already affected) apply tea tree oil directly to the scalp to kill them overnight!
9. To eliminate foot odor.
If you’ve noticed that your shoes are smelling musty, consider using tea tree oil as a safe, all-natural way to ensure that your feet don’t stink! Turn it into a powder by mixing 10 drops of it with 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cups baking soda, and 10 drops of lavender oil. Then, just powder your feet and shoes with the mixture!
MORE: The Best Ways to Use Essential Oils This Summer
10. To treat dandruff.
Itchy scalps are often the result of allergies, bacteria or fungus. Tea tree oil, when mixed with shampoo, is extremely soothing on the scalp, and can even prevent dandruff!
11. To treat bug bites and stings.
Mix some TTO with a carrier oil (such as olive oil) and massage into the affected area. The combo disinfects, reduces pain and prevents itching! To ensure the solution is as effective as possible, apply a bandage over the area.
12. As air freshener.
One cup of water mixed with three drops of tea tree oil and two drops of lemon essential oil acts as a natural household deodorizer. The stuff smells amazing!
13. As a laundry detergent booster.
Adding 10 drops of TTO to your wash cycle ensures that your clothes come out extra-clean. The oil prevents bacteria and fungus!
14. To fight mold and mildew.
Combine one cup of water with a teaspoon of tea tree oil. Shake well, then spray on mold- and mildew-affected areas! Let it soak for a few minutes before wiping it away. This solution can also be used preventatively, which is recommended for areas like toilet bowls and shower curtains.
15. To help your plants grow.
Tea tree oil combats fungus and rotting. By mixing it with some water and spraying your plants every few days, you can protect them from harmful bacteria! Once they’re free of it, they’ll grow faster and stronger.
MORE: 11 Tea Tree Oil Products for Treating Your Acne
16. As makeup remover.
Tea tree oil is extremely effective at breaking down makeup. Mix 10 drops of it with 1/4 cup of canola oil in a jar, dip a cotton ball into it, and use it to wipe away your makeup! Be extra careful around your eyes and mouth, though.
17. To eliminate cold sores.
TTO can be seriously drying if used in large quantities. Apply it to a cold sore (on the outside of your mouth area) to see results in just a few days! Be careful not to ingest it while you’re applying.
18. To soothe tense or sore muscles.
A combo of Epsom salt and tea tree oil turns your warm bath into the ultimate spa day for those tired muscles!
19. To fight hair loss.
TTO fights bacteria and fungus, turning your scalp into the perfect space for clean, quick hair regrowth!
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