 Tea tree oil is a clear liquid with a pleasant scent, similar to that of eucalyptus. It is steam-distilled from the leaves of a common Australian tree, Melaleuca alternifolia. The aborigines used tea tree oil as an antiseptic, chewed the leaves for colds, and drank a tea made from it feeling ill. Tea tree oil is a very effective germicide and can be used for wounds and sores on mucous membranes, such as canker sores. It's also a good gargle for sore throats (use a 10 percent solution); it has strong antifungal properties; you can inhale its vapors for colds; and it is the best treatment I know for athlete's foot and toenail fungus. (Just paint it on the affected area two or three times a day.) You can also find tea tree oil in deodorants, toothpastes, shampoos, and natural cleaning products. It is quite safe, but make sure the label says the product contains 100 percent pure tea tree oil. You can find it in most health food and herb stores. I always keep it around my h ouse and travel with tea tree oil in my first-aid kit.
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