What is it? Tea tree oil originates from the plant Melaleuca alternifoli, which is native to Australia. It comes as no surprise then that Australia’s aborigines discovered tea tree oil’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits, using the oil for thousands of years.

The Bundjalung Aborigines of northern New South Wales used crushed tea tree leaves for healing wounds and treating skin ailments. But, it wasn’t widely used until the 1920s, when the researcher Arthur Penfold reported in series of papers that tea tree oil showed antimicrobial activity.

Since then, it’s been used as a household remedy for skin infections and in first-aid kits in World War II. Known for its antifungal, antiseptic and antibacterial abilities, tea tree oil serves as an alternative treatment for a range of conditions. In addition to alleviating acne and healing cuts and wounds, many believe tea tree oil also cures colds, diminishes dandruff, treats psoriasis and helps with head lice.

Though research hasn’t confirmed these uses, today tea tree oil is used all over the world in personal care products.

You’ll find it in: Tea tree oil appears in a variety of products, including acne treatments, cleansers, toners, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, mouthwash, deodorant and even foot powder.

Conveniently, you can make your own treatment at home. Here’s a recipe from HGTV for a homemade toner: Fill half of a travel-size plastic bottle with distilled water and mix in 30 drops of tea tree oil.

Our product picks: Create spa-like ambiance by using Ole Henriksen Detox Tea Tree Oil Soak to cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the body. Relieve itchiness and flaking with Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo, which removes dirt and build-up while adding volume.

For a simple cleanser that gently removes makeup along with impurities, try June Jacobs Fresh Squeezed Lemon Cleanser. It contains antioxidants that protect against free radicals that result from pollution, UV rays and other environmental factors.

What to expect: Considering its long-time use and popularity, it’s surprising there’s so little research on tea tree oil. But, existing studies do show promising results.

Some research suggests tea tree oil is effective in killing germs, backing up the long held belief that this remedy has antimicrobial abilities.

It might also treat dandruff. A 2002 Australian study found that participants who used a 5 percent tea tree oil shampoo experienced a 41 percent improvement in scalp itchiness and greasiness.

Other research suggests tea tree oil can help to reduce acne. One study reported that a solution with 5 percent tea tree oil was just as effective in treating acne as a treatment with 5 percent benzoyl peroxide.

Esthetician Brenda Harper tells WebMD that she frequently uses tea tree oil, in combination with glycolic acid, to treat her clients who have acne. She also recommends applying tea tree oil if your skin is prone to acne.

Still, many dermatologists prefer to use traditional treatments like topical retinoids and Accutane. If you’d like to use tea tree oil to treat acne (dandruff or any other condition), consult your dermatologist.

Who should avoid it: While it’s considered safe for daily use on your skin, tea tree oil may cause itchiness, a rash, redness or blistering. The likelihood is even higher for those with a skin condition like eczema.

Very rarely, tea tree oil can lead to serious side effects, such as poor coordination, muscle tremors and general physical weakness. Always perform a patch test first. Also, try diluting tea tree oil with vegetable or olive oil.

Avoid tea tree oil if you’re pregnant or nursing. And always consult your physician before using any essential oil or natural remedy.

See also:

6 Great Essential Oils for Your Skin

Jojoba Oil