The Many Benefits of Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil | Essential Oils Guide

The Many Benefits of Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil

Essential oils like tea tree oil and coconut oil have been garnering a lot of attention lately for their wide array of health and beauty benefits. These all-natural oils have been used for centuries to treat various conditions and can be great additions to your daily skin and hair care routine.

Read on to learn all about what makes tea tree oil and coconut oil so beneficial, how to use them, and their potential side effects.

What is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil is derived by steam distillation from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, which is native to Australia and Southeast Asia.

This multipurpose essential oil has been used in traditional Aboriginal medicine for hundreds of years due to its potent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Today, tea tree oil is commonly used topically to treat various skin and nail conditions.

Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Here are some of the top evidence-based benefits of tea tree oil:

• Acne treatment - Several studies have found tea tree oil to be effective at reducing acne lesions and inflammation. Its antibacterial compounds help kill p. acnes bacteria.
• Wound healing - Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can help prevent infection and accelerate wound healing.
• Dandruff treatment - Tea tree oil has been shown to improve dandruff symptoms by reducing scalp inflammation and flaking.
• Athlete's foot treatment - Applying tea tree oil can help clear up athlete's foot by killing the causative dermatophyte fungus.
• Nail fungus treatment - Multiple studies demonstrate tea tree oil's ability to improve nail fungus symptoms when used topically on toenails.
• Insect repellant - Tea tree oil can be applied to the skin or clothes to naturally deter insects like mosquitoes.
• Oral health - Studies indicate tea tree oil's antimicrobial effects may help reduce bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath and dental plaque.

How to Use Tea Tree Oil

When using tea tree oil topically, it should always be diluted in a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil. This helps avoid skin irritation. A dilution of 5-10% tea tree oil is recommended for most purposes.

Here are some common ways to use diluted tea tree oil:

• Face wash - Add a few drops to a gentle cleanser to boost its bacteria-fighting effects.
• Spot treatment - Dab directly onto pimples, athlete's foot, or nail fungus to reduce infection.
• Body wash - Add 5-10 drops to liquid soap or shower gel for an antimicrobial boost.
• Mouthwash - Mix a drop with a cup of water and swirl around the mouth to kill bad breath bacteria.
• All-purpose cleaner - Mix with water and vinegar in a spray bottle for an effective disinfectant solution.

Tea Tree Oil Side Effects

When used correctly, tea tree oil is generally safe for most people. However, potential side effects can include:

• Skin irritation - Can occur if used without dilution or if allergy exists.
• Hormonal effects - Tea tree oil can mimic estrogen and potentially impact hormones if consumed orally.
• Drug interactions - May interact with certain medications like blood thinners and immunosuppressants if large amounts are ingested.
• Toxicity if swallowed - Accidentally ingesting tea tree oil can be toxic and should be avoided.

To avoid negative effects, conduct a patch test before initial use, always dilute in a carrier oil, and keep out of reach of children.

The Health and Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

Like tea tree oil, coconut oil is another versatile natural oil with a wide array of benefits. Extracted from mature coconuts, coconut oil is edible and can be used internally or topically.

Nutritional Value of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in certain healthy fats. Just one tablespoon contains:

• 117 calories
• 13 grams fat, including 11 grams saturated fat
• No protein, carbs, or micronutrients

The high saturated fat content of coconut oil used to be concerning, but research now shows that it does not negatively impact cholesterol or heart health. The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil are processed differently by the body than other fats.

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Here are some research-backed ways that coconut oil may benefit health:

• Weight loss aid - The MCTs in coconut oil boost metabolism and reduce appetite compared to longer-chain fats.
• Brain function - MCTs are readily converted into ketones, an alternative brain fuel that can improve cognition in those with Alzheimer's or other brain disorders.
• Dental health - Swishing with coconut oil (oil pulling) may reduce plaque buildup, improve bad breath, and prevent cavities.
• Antimicrobial properties - Lauric acid in coconut oil kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi, helping prevent skin and oral infections.
• Moisturizing properties - Coconut oil helps retain moisture in skin and improves dryness issues like eczema.

Using Coconut Oil Topically

There are endless ways to use coconut oil externally, including:

• Moisturizer - Apply all over the body to soften skin.
• Hair mask - Coat hair liberally, wrap in a towel, and rinse after 30+ minutes.
• Shaving cream - Apply before shaving to moisturize skin and provide glide.
• Makeup remover - Gently melt coconut oil and massage into skin to break down makeup.
• Lip balm - Use a dab on chapped lips for moisture and shine.

How to Use Coconut Oil Internally

Coconut oil can also be consumed in many ways:

• Sauteeing - Use coconut oil for stir-frying veggies or eggs.
• Baking - Replace butter or vegetable oils with coconut oil in recipes.
• Smoothies - Add a tablespoon to fruit smoothies for healthy fats.
• Coffee creamer - Mix a spoonful into hot coffee instead of milk or cream.
• Oil pulling - Swish 1-2 teaspoons in your mouth for 20 minutes to improve oral health.

Coconut Oil Precautions

Coconut oil is generally well-tolerated, but there are a few precautions to be aware of:

• Allergies - Those with coconut or tree nut allergies should avoid ingesting or applying coconut oil.
• High calorie count - A tablespoon contains 120 calories, so portion control is important, especially for weight loss.
• Oxidation with heat - Cooking at high temperatures can damage the natural structure of coconut oil and create harmful compounds.

Overall, when used in moderation, most people can benefit from incorporating coconut oil into their routines. Just be sure to buy high-quality, organic, virgin coconut oil to get the most benefits.

Using Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil Together

The antimicrobial and hydrating properties of tea tree oil pair perfectly with the moisturizing effects of coconut oil. Combining them together allows you to reap all their benefits in one application.

Here are a few popular ways to use tea tree oil and coconut oil together:

Moisturizing Skin Salve

Mix several drops of tea tree oil with a couple tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Apply this salve anywhere on the body that needs moisture and protection from fungal or bacterial infections, such as eczema, athlete's foot, or acne.

Dandruff Treatment

Add 10+ drops of tea tree oil to 2-3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Massage into the scalp before bed and leave in overnight. The tea tree will help reduce yeast overgrowth while the coconut oil moisturizes the scalp.

Homemade Mouthwash

Stir a drop of tea tree oil and a spoonful of coconut oil into a cup of warm water. Swish this solution around the mouth for a few minutes to kill bad breath bacteria and help remove plaque.

Natural Deodorant

Whip together a handful of coconut oil with 5-10 drops each of tea tree oil and lemon essential oil. Apply under arms as a natural deodorizing alternative to conventional antiperspirants.

Foot Soak

Fill a tub with warm water and add 1/4 cup of coconut oil plus 10 drops of tea tree oil. Soak feet for 20 minutes to moisturize cracked heels and treat athlete's foot or nail fungus.

Tea tree oil and coconut oil are two staple ingredients that are easy to use together. Always remember to do a patch test before initial use and dilute tea tree oil properly to avoid skin irritation. Using these natural oils as part of your daily regimen can improve many aspects of your health, beauty, and hygiene.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.