In the past, we’ve detailed how essential oils are great for oral health. But there are also a whole range of herbs that contribute to the well-being of your gums. We’ve listed the benefits of these outstanding herbs and even included a couple of recipes for natural herbal mouthwashes so you get the most out of these herbs.

The Big Guns for Gums

Myrrh

Myrrh is antibacterial so it kills the harmful oral bacteria that comes from plaque build up. It also increases blood flow to the soft tissue in the mouth. With increased blood flow, gums will heal faster as the blood brings white blood cells to repair damaged tissue and fight off viruses and bacteria.

It also relieves toothache and can be used to prevent gum disease and cavities. Like Goldenseal (which gets its own entry below), it also helps reduce gum recession and mouth sores. Myrrh is a herbal treasure trove.

Neem

One of the original, natural toothbrushes was actually a stick of neem. It contains strong antibacterial properties (which helps prevent tooth decay and gingivitis by lowering bacterial colonies in the mouth), it reduces plaque build up, strengthens gum health, and as a bonus it freshens your breath.

Just add some powdered neem to your toothpaste and you’re good to go. (Try to ensure that the neem powder is made from its bark, not leaf, as bark is more potent.) Neem seems to be a potent dental tool.

Yarrow

Yarrow leaf promotes healing of mouth sores due to braces, surgery, and overzealous brushing. It’s got everything: it’s an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, and styptic herb with blood circulatory stimulant properties to boot. A good yarrow leaf goes a long way for dental health.

But Not to Be Outdone…

Bloodroot

Bloodroot contains sanguinarine which is an alkaloid that helps prevent plaque from sticking to teeth. If plaque is unable to stick to teeth, the bacteria and acids formed by the plaque cannot stay in the mouth to cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Calendula

This herb is anti-inflammatory so it relieves mouth ulcers and reduces oral swelling. Calenula also relaxes any jaw tension while simultaneously fighting infection (bacterial or fungal) in the mouth.

Chamomile

It doesn’t just make a beautifully relaxing tea. Chamomile is also anti-inflammatory so it can take care of swollen and bleeding gums. It can also help relieve the pain associated with gingivitis.

Echinacea

Echinacea is known for it’s immune-boosting properties (as it’s gained popularity as the herb that fights against colds). But it’s also anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial; a perfect combination to improve oral health.

Goldenseal

Use this herb especially for use on gums. Like most of the other herbs on this list, its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it ideal to fight against gingivitis. It also reduces gum recession and even helps with mouth sores and thrush.

Oregon Grape Root

A great all-rounder for gums. Oregon grape root soothes the pain caused by gingivitis as well as tightens swollen gums due to its astringent properties. It’s also antimicrobial so it also fights gum disease on a bacterial level.

Peppermint

You probably know it best for its breath-freshening, cool taste and potential to whiten teeth. But its coolness actually comes from its anti-inflammatory agents that also help with gum inflammation. It is also mildly antibacterial which helps fight against oral plaque.

Plantain (Cooking Banana)

Plantain is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory so it’s great for healing wounds (both inside and outside the mouth). It also helps control bleeding and is loaded with B vitamins (great for preventing mouth sores and oral inflammation) and vitamin K (which guards against weakening bone structure and helps blood clot faster).

Prickly Ash Bark

Sounds unpleasant but it’s actually quite beneficial for gums. It improves blood circulation like myrrh which increases gingival healing and tightens the soft tissue.

Propolis

Apart from honey, bees also produce a compound called propolis from the sap on needle-leaved trees or evergreens. When they combine the sap with their own discharges and beeswax, they create propolis (a sticky, greenish-brown product used as a coating to build their hives).

Obviously, if you are allergic to bees, don’t use this herb, but it is an excellent antimicrobial herb for oral infections and keeping disease at bay.

Sage

Sage fights against bleeding gums, gingivitis, gum recession, and mouth sores. It’s a natural astringent which means it tightens the soft tissue of gums and calms a sore mouth. It is also mildly antiseptic so it helps with oral ulcers.

In 2015, there was a study conducted which found that a sage mouthwash significantly lowered the number of plaque bacteria colonies. Participants in the study were able to rinse with the solution for up to a minute without experiencing any irritation.

Sage Mouthwash Recipe
Boil 1 to 2 cups of water
Add 2 tbsp fresh sage OR 1 tsp dried sage to the water
Let simmer for 5-10 mins
Strain and let water cool
Rinse with the solution 2-3 times per day

Sage Mouthwash Recipe

White Oak Bark

This herb is anti-inflammatory so it strengthens and tonifies gingival tissue while relieving swollen, bleeding gums and reducing the advancement of gum recession.

Yerba Mansa

A new up-and-comer, heralded as the next echinacea, yerba mansa is anti-plaque and great for fighting against gum recession. It’s also got all the right ‘a’ words: antiseptic, antifungal, and astringent.

Another Natural Mouthwash Recipe

Some herbal solutions that would be great for a mouthwash include:

echinacea
goldenseal
myrrh
peppermint
plantain
propolis

If you’re using more than one solution for the mouthwash, combine a small amount of each into a bottle with a dropper.

The recipe:

Fill a glass with a mouthful of water

Add 20-30 drops of whatever herbal solution you with to use (or the combination solution)

If you’re dealing with an oral infection or gum disease, you can add more drops to make the mouthwash stronger

Swish the mouthwash around your mouth then spit it out

If you don’t like the taste of some of these herbs, it’s always a safe bet to add that peppermint solution
herbal mouthwash

To prevent mastitis in livestock, consider supplementing with vitamin E, selenium, zinc, and calcium, as these nutrients play a crucial role in immune function and udder health, while also maintaining good hygiene and proper milking procedures.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Key Nutrients and Their Roles:

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E supplementation, especially around calving, can reduce mastitis incidence and improve milk output. It boosts immunity and reduces oxidative stress in the udder.

Selenium:

Selenium is an essential nutrient that, along with vitamin E, enhances phagocytic activity, which is important for fighting off infections. Selenium deficiency has been linked to increased mastitis incidence and severity.

Zinc:

Zinc is crucial for maintaining epithelial barriers to infection, which help prevent bacteria from entering the udder.

Calcium:

Proper calcium supplementation can improve overall therapeutic outcomes in mastitis cases.

Probiotics:

Some studies suggest that probiotics, like Bacillus subtilis C-3102, can help prevent mastitis and reduce the need for antibiotics.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):

ACV can help maximize the nutrition in cattle feed, help the cow ingest and process vitamins and minerals properly, and flush out harmful toxins and mastitis pathogens.

Other Important Considerations:

Hygiene:

Maintaining a clean and dry environment for dry cows is crucial to prevent infections.

Proper Milking Procedures:

Good milking practices and equipment maintenance are essential for preventing mastitis.

Teat Disinfectants:

Using a good teat disinfectant after every milking is a vital preventative measure.

Teat Sealants:

Teat sealants can help prevent new infections during the dry period by creating a barrier in the teat canal.

Vaccines:

ENDOVAC-Dairy with Immune Plus is a vaccine that can provide protection against gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli Mastitis, Pasteurella, Mannheimia, and Salmonella.

Essential Oils:

Some essential oils, like basil and bergamot, have shown antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, a common cause of bovine mastitis.

Udder Comfort Spray:

Some products like Udder Comfort Spray are used to help with udder health and mastitis prevention.

Black walnut oil, derived from black walnuts, is traditionally used for its potential medicinal properties, including anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, though more scientific research is needed to fully validate these claims.

Here’s a more detailed look at the potential medicinal value of black walnut oil:

Anti-parasitic Properties:
Black walnut, particularly its hulls, contain juglone, a compound that has been traditionally used to combat parasitic infections.

Skin Health:
The tannins in black walnut oil are believed to have astringent properties, potentially aiding in tightening skin, relieving irritation, and treating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and warts.

Cardiovascular Health:
Black walnuts are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that may contribute to heart health.

Antifungal and Antimicrobial Activity:

Some traditional uses suggest that black walnut oil can be used topically to treat fungal infections like ringworm.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties:

Black walnuts contain ellagitannins, a type of polyphenol with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Neurological Health:
The ellagitannins in black walnuts may help protect against neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Other Traditional Uses:
Black walnut has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of conditions, including diphtheria, syphilis, and leukemia, though scientific evidence for these uses is lacking.

Important Note:
While black walnut oil and black walnuts have shown some promise in traditional medicine, more scientific research is needed to fully validate their potential health benefits and determine safe and effective dosages.

Green coffee bean extract is a supplement made from unroasted coffee beans that contains chlorogenic acid and caffeine:

Blood pressure

Green coffee may help lower blood pressure in some people. The chlorogenic acid in green coffee may affect blood vessels.

Blood sugar

Green coffee may help improve blood sugar regulation. The chlorogenic acid in green coffee may lower blood sugar levels and reduce insulin spikes.

Weight loss

Some research suggests that green coffee may help with weight loss by lowering blood sugar and blocking fat buildup. However, many experts agree that there is no substitute for maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise.

Anti-inflammatory

The chlorogenic acid in green coffee is a natural antioxidant that may help tame inflammation.

Anti-aging

Green coffee beans may help slow the overall effects of aging both mentally and physically. The caffeine and chlorogenic acid in green coffee may help with sun damage, wrinkles, and dry, rough skin.

Green coffee contains less caffeine than regular coffee. However, the quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. You should ask your doctor for advice.

Clove bud oil, also known as eugenol, has many potential medicinal uses, including:

• Pain relief: Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic that can help with toothaches, gum discomfort, and pain from dental work.
• Antibacterial and antifungal properties: Clove oil can help fight infections and has been shown to kill staph bacteria in liquid culture and biofilm.
• Anti-inflammatory: Clove oil contains anti-inflammatory chemicals that can help reduce inflammation.
• Blood pressure: Clove oil may help lower blood pressure by dilating mesenteric arteries.
• Skin health: Clove oil can help with dry skin and soothe skin irritation.
• Congestion: Inhaling a combination of clove bud oil and myrtle essential oil can help open airways and manage congestion.
• Tooth enamel: The eugenol in clove oil may help reverse or lessen the effects of high-acid foods and drinks on tooth enamel.

Clove bud oil is also used as a flavoring in foods and teas. 

While clove oil has many potential uses, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to support all of them. High doses of clove oil can cause severe liver injury. 

Clove leaf oil, also known as eugenol, has many medicinal properties, including:

• Antimicrobial: Clove oil is effective against a variety of bacteria, yeast, and parasites. It can be used as an antiseptic to treat oral infections.
• Anti-inflammatory: Clove oil contains eugenol and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and pain. It’s a popular natural remedy for toothaches and gum discomfort.
• Antioxidant: Clove oil contains nonpolar phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties.
• Antiviral: Clove oil has antiviral properties.
• Anti-histamine: Clove oil has anti-histamine properties.
• Anticancer: Clove oil has anticancer properties.

Clove oil can also be used to: Soothe skin irritation, Improve blood circulation, Repel insects, and Relieve stomach pain. 

Clove oil is used in many industries, including cosmetics, food, and medicine. It’s also used as a flavoring for foods and teas. 

While clove oil is generally safe in therapeutic doses, high doses can cause severe liver injury. 

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by Stephanie L. Tourles in Farm Animals, Horses & Pets

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Keep four-legged members of your family pest-free, comfortable, happy, and, smelling fresh and clean.

By Mary03101983 (Own work), via Wikimedia Commons

I hear all the time from people looking for alternatives to the standard chemical arsenal that is available to repel or control insects pests, including those that pounce on our pets. Synthetic insecticides don’t belong on the four-legged members of your family any more than they belong on your own skin. I’ve perfected herbal formulations so that dogs and cats no longer need to suffer skin and respiratory irritation from flea-and-tick powders and those liquid spot-on products.

The mildly aromatic recipes I’m sharing here combine insecticidal herbs and essential oils with food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) and bentonite clay (BC), two mineral-rich substances that deliver a double-pronged deathblow to fleas and unattached ticks. They are powerful desiccants, due to the abrasive action of the silica on the parasite’s exoskeleton, and they also clog the insect’s breathing channels, leading to death within 24 to 72 hours.

These powders work remarkably well when applied regularly, once or twice per week, especially during the warmer months. No worries about your pets licking themselves, either — ingesting DE and BC will even add valuable minerals to their dietary intake, and the high silica content assists as a natural dewormer. Additionally, the powder acts as a deodorizer and dry shampoo, leaving your pet’s coat smelling fresh and clean.

The only equipment required is a bowl and whisk, and plastic, cardboard, metal, or glass application and storage containers. A good application container is a recycled herb or spice jar with a perforated lid.

A Couple Notes of Caution: Cats are particularly sensitive to essential oils, and care must be taken to avoid any risk of toxicity. Their acute sense of smell heightens their distaste for strong odors; their thin skin allows for rapid absorption of substances into the bloodstream; and most importantly, they lack the enzyme glucuronyl transferase, which aids in the metabolism of chemical constituents. When mixing these formulas for cats or for dogs under one year old, skip the essential oils altogether. 

Also note that these recipes were developed for dogs and cats. For use on animals other than dogs or cats, please seek the advice of an herbalist and/or aromatherapist with expertise in this area, or seek out a holistic veterinarian.

Natural Flea– and Tick–Control Powders for Dogs and Cats

Each of the recipes yields 2 cups of powder.

Important Note: Omit essential oils in powders made for cats and for dogs under one year old.

Ingredients

“Shoo, Flea, Don’t Bother Me” Powder

• 1 cup food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ½ cup bentonite clay powder
• ¼ cup rosemary leaf powder
• ¼ cup black walnut hull powder (Be aware that the black walnut hull powder can temporarily darken blond or white fur.)
• 5 drops cedarwood essential oil (see note above)
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil (see note above)

Bite Ban Flea & Tick Powder

• 1½ cups food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ¼ cup lemongrass powder
• ¼ cup neem leaf powder
• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil (see note above)

Bugs-Be-Gone Powder

• 1 cup food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ½ cup neem leaf powder
• ½ cup lavender flower powder
• 10 drops geranium essential oil (see note above)

Directions

1. Combine the DE and/or BC with other dry ingredients specified in a medium bowl and gently whisk to blend.
2. Add the essential oils (omit essential oils, if making powder for cats or for dogs under one year old), scattering the drops around the powder, and whisk again to combine.
3. Loosely spoon the mixture into the container(s), then shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
4. Label and date the powder. Allow the powder to synergize for 24 hours prior to use.
5. Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 1 year.

Application: To prevent making a dust cloud in your home, I suggest powdering both your indoor and outdoor pets outside, keeping them controlled with a comfortable harness and leash (this includes cats). Most pets will shake off much of the powder immediately after being treated, but if you’ve massaged it close to the skin, a sufficient amount should remain to do the job.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, sprinkle the powder evenly and uniformly from nose to tail, and as close to the skin as possible, massaging it in really well. Fleas and ticks will rush to any part of your pet that is dust-free, so address the entire face, ears, genitals, anus, and between the toes. When applying to the face, be extra careful not to get powder in the eyes, nose, or mouth, as it is irritating to mucous membranes. Repeat once or twice per week, as needed, to control fleas and ticks.

When treating mature pets under 5 pounds or young kittens and puppies, carefully apply very small amounts of powder to one section of the body at a time, massaging it into the skin very gently to minimize dust.

TEXT AND RECIPES EXCERPTED FROM NATURALLY BUG-FREE © 2016 BY STEPHANIE L. TOURLES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Stephanie L. Tourles

Stephanie L. Tourles is the best-selling author of Pure Skin Care,Stephanie Tourles’s Essential Oils: A Beginner’s Guide, Organic Body Care Recipes, Hands-On Healing Remedies, and… See Bio

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Tea Tree

POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 BY ANN MARIE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, PLANT OF THE WEEK6

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a botanical tree highly valued for its oil used in traditional medicine. It is considered as a “medicine chest in a bottle” with its effective antiseptic property. Before they end up in the bottle for consumption, tea trees are just small trees or shrubs with a fluffy appearance and papery barks. The cream-colored flowers and soft linear leaves are the distinguishing characteristics of the tea tree. Processed Melaleuca oil plays an important role in the treatment of skin problems and respiratory symptoms.

Of the many tea tree species, the most popular among aromatherapists is the Melaleuca alternifolia, but not to be confused with Leptospermum scoparium. The former is an Australian variety of tea trees, while the latter is a New Zealand Manuka. Melaleuca leaves are the source of tea tree oils, while the manuka is valued for the honey sourced from its flowers. But while tea tree is effective against skin diseases and bacterial infection, raw and pure tea tree oil are toxic. It should be cultivated and processed properly and should be kept away from children’s reach.

Short History Of Tea Tree

Long before the invention of penicillin, tea tree was already recognized as a potent antibacterial solution in the form of tea.

The name tea tree came from the notion of brewing the leaves of the trees. The infusion was not only used for drinking but also in treating skin infections.

The medical community began to explore and experiment on the effective properties of the tea tree. Studies yield effective antibacterial and antifungal properties that are not caustic or burning for the skin. They became a staple and effective treatment when the foot-fungus became widespread in 1923.

Today, the tea tree is an ingredient not only for beauty and antimicrobial products. It is also marketed as an active ingredient in mouthwash, toothpaste, deodorants, and shampoo. Some cleaning and disinfectant like toilet products and handwash also contain tea tree properties.

Where The Plant Is Found

Endemic to Australia, tea trees are abundant in the swampy areas and streams where they can get moist soil and full sun. It borders New South Wales and the coastal district of Queensland. Northern Australia hosts about 6.4 million hectares of its forest to different varieties of the Melaleuca.

Tea trees are also easy to grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. They may be grown indoors, though more tedious than the outdoors. However, they are preferred to be grown indoors when living in hardiness zones below 9 or 8.

Other countries like China, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Kenya also cultivate tea trees for commercial essential oil production.

Related: The Complete Map of Edible Plants: Find Out What You Have in Your Area! (Video)

How To Identify Tea Tree

Tea trees appear like low trees or high shrubs with a fluffy look. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family with many species. They may grow either as a high shrub or a low tree ranging from 4 to 7 meters tall, while some species can go as high as 35 meters. Aside from their essential oils, tea trees are also grown as fence or garden edging because of their attractive appearance.

• Leaf. Tea tree leaves are linear and are either arranged alternately or in whorls. It is smooth, soft, and narrow, with no more than 35mm long and 1mm wide in green or dark grey color. These leaves have glands where their essential oils are abundantly located.
• Flower. Many-flowered spikes with cream or white color bloom from the tea tree in spring and early summer. This mass of spikes gives it a kind of wispy appearance that lasts for only a short period.
• Roots. As a member of the Myrtaceae family, the tea tree has a taproot and is branched.
• Stem. A tea tree can grow like a big shrub or a small tree with flaky bark. Hence, it also earned the name paper-bark for its exfoliate stem.
• Seeds. Melaleuca seed capsules contain fine and tiny globular seeds. These seeds are contained in the fruit cup indefinitely until the plant dies or gets heated in a bush fire.

Tea tree is also planted for stabilizing embankment. It makes not only an attractive fence but also an excellent windbreak. Tea trees have about 300 varieties that are also an excellent source of other types of oils and honey. Some of the popular species of Melaleuca are: Melaleuca linariifolia  and Melaleuca quinquenervia.

Related: Plant Identification Guide – 400 Wild Plants That You Can Forage For (Video)

How To Grow Tea Tree

Tea trees enjoy moist, but well-drained soil and mostly a full sun. They are drought-tolerant, but not frost tolerant. Hence, it is ideal to grow them in places with a warm climate, or as a potted indoor plant in temperate climates. You can propagate tea trees from cuttings or grow them from seeds. Either way, it is an easy and low-maintenance plant that is fast-growing once it has established itself.

Growing Tea Tree From Seeds

The best seeds for planting a tea tree are those that are already 1 to 2 years old. Its germination is straightforward and does not require any treatment before sowing.

You can simply sprinkle tea tree seeds in a pre-drained mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, perlite, or coarse sand. Cover it lightly with perlite or fine sand, just enough to prevent air exposure yet allow sunlight exposure.

Make sure that your germinating tray receives at least six hours of sun. But you should provide a little light during midday by draping a light cloth over it. The tea tree seeds will germinate for about 14 to 30 days.

Related: 10 Plants That You Should Never Plant Together(Video)

Transplanting

You may transplant the tea tree seedlings once they are about 3-inches high and has a set of leaves. Mix half soil and half sand in a pot and dig a 4-inch hole. Plant a seedling into the hole and place it in a sheltered area outdoors. Water them with 2-inches water every seven to ten days when transplanting in summer. You should also provide a light shade for the new seedlings during their first summer. Tea trees are best for transplanting to their permanent position in autumn.

Growing Tea Tree From Cuttings

Melaleuca is also propagated from cuttings, which is more reliable than seed growing if you already have an existing plant. Cut about 75 to 100 mm of the plant with the leaves removed from the lower half portion. Remove a slice of the bark and soak this in a rooting hormone solution to encourage rooting.

Taking Care Of Tea Tree Plants

Here are some important tips for growing a tea tree plant successfully.

• Tea tree thrives in full sun and little shade.
• They grow in either acidic or neutral soil as long as it is moist.
• Water the plants regularly during the hot summer.
• Irrigate the plants daily if planting on a pot.

How To Harvest Tea Tree

Tea tree has no other edible parts. Its usefulness is limited to the oil extracted from its leaves and twigs. Tea tree oil is the primary reason why tea tree is cultivated, and the secondary reason is for its ornamental value. That is why tea tree is often planted in wide plantation fields for higher product yield.

The tea tree leaves to be used in production are harvested once the plant is about two meters high. It is also pruned and gathered every 12 to 18 months to encourage new plant growth.

When harvesting tea trees, timing is important so as not to hamper future yields. The best time is when the lower leaf starts to drop off, and the stem is not yet too thick. It is also necessary to gather tea tree leaves during warm seasons instead of wet or freezing months.

Tea tree growers mechanically harvest them using a forage harvester to cut off the aerial growth. The forage harvester also chops the gathered parts to make them ready for steam distillation and oil extraction.

What Tea Tree Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It

Traditionally, crushed tea tree leaves were used for treating skin infections by applying them to the area with a warm mudpack. Its wood was also useful to the aborigines in making rafts and timber for roofing.

Until now, tea tree forests have had prominent roles in coastal areas. They serve as a natural trap for debris and in the prevention of soil erosion. They also serve as a habitat for aquatic animals, just like mangroves.

The tea tree foliage is also valuable in pharmacological and medical fields. Tea tree oil has potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It makes tea tree oil a significant ingredient in most cosmetic, health care, and animal care products.

Tea tree oil’s best uses are for treating the following conditions:

• Skin conditions (Acne, psoriasis, carbuncle, fungal infections, blemishes, warts, etc.)
• Mouth and gum problems (Gingivitis, bad breath, canker sores)
• Hair fall problems
• Respiratory symptoms
• Body odor
• Earaches
• Insect bites

Related: Bronchial Blend Homemade Tincture (Learn More)

What Parts Of Plants Are Used For Remedies

The tea tree leaves and young twigs are the most valuable part of the M. alternifolia. Traditionally, it is crushed and inhaled to clear breathing and alleviate respiratory symptoms. Steam distillation of its leaves produces the popular tea tree oil that is bottled and sold commercially.

Tea Tree Rejuvenating Bath Blend For Sore Muscles

Ingredients

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• ¼ cup Himalayan salt
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 10 drops tea tree essential oil

Steps

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Epsom salt and Himalayan salt and mix thoroughly.
2. Add the baking soda and mix well.
3. Add the drops of tea tree essential oil into the mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the finished product in cool and dry canning or mason jars.

How To Use The Remedy

Add about ¼ to ½ cups of the mixture to a warm bath. The proportion depends on the size of the bath. Completely dissolve the salts in the water to avoid slipping. You can use this rejuvenating bath to relieve sore muscles, congestion, and inflammation.

Store in a cool and dry place. With the addition of tea tree essential oil, this bath soak will last for up to 3 months.

What Plants Resemble Tea Tree

Feature	Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)	Cajeput (Melaleuca quinquenervia)

Flowers	Many-flowered spikes; wispy and fluffy; cream or white-colored	Spike cluster; wispy; white or cream-colored
Leaves	Alternate; linear; 1-35mm long, under 1mm wide	Alternate; linear; 55 to 120mm long
Scent	Crisp and earthy scent	Camphor-like aroma
Size	4 to 7 meter tall	8 to 15 meter tall
Stem/Trunk	Paper-bark trunk	Paper-bark trunk

Warnings And Cautions:

Tea tree is a safe topical solution when applied to the skin. It is also safe for breastfeeding and pregnant women and children. However, experts warned against using pure and raw tea tree oil. It may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or contact dermatitis. To test product tolerance, apply a small amount of tea tree oil to the skin before using it.

The tea tree plant and its essential oil are inedible and toxic. It is, therefore, not safe for oral consumption. Ingestion of essential oil can cause serious side effects like confusion, rashes, or even coma.

Avoid using tea tree oil near the eye as it can damage the mucous membrane. When using essential oil or any alternative, it is best to consult your doctor, especially if using it with conventional medical treatment.

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6 Comments

• PATRICIA JOHNSON POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 4:09 PMGreat Tip to know on it’s use. I will be making this! Thank you!Reply
• WENDY POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 5:02 PMI liked tea tree oil even before my visit to New Zealand in 2005. My friend there pointed out that Manuka is the New Zealand variety of tea tree, and I came to really like the way it smells and my response to it; she did not tell me that Melaleuca is better for oil and Manuka is better for honey; this explains why I find plenty of Manuka honey, plenty of Melaleuca oil, and close to none of the inverse. Thanks for the education!Reply
• PEGGY BLIUJUS POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 5:21 PMThank you for this article. I have used tea tree oil for at least 30 years and I recommend it to everyoneReply
• MARINA POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 6:36 PMWhen the cautions and warnings say, “avoid pure oil” I feel that it means the concentration part. I use doTerra brand, even for internally consumption from their actual site otherwise it is concerning. Diluted: ( with water if taken internally or if use for skin diluted with a pure coconut oil etc) their concentration and purity is the bestReply
• GOLDE POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 6:39 PMBe aware of what New Zealand has become. They drop poison all over the bush areas. I quit going there, and quit using their Manuka honey, as the suppliers could not tell me that the honey wasn’t contaminated. True story. If you would like more facts about this, read my article with many articles relating to this poison. https://www.flydreamers.com/en/articles/new-zealand-the-poisoned-nation-a1745#ref=search/resultsReply
• DARLA POSTED DECEMBER 23, 2021 5:19 AMTea tree oil is great, but beware… it will kill cats . Use as an topical treatment for wounds will kill cats. FYIReply

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Lemongrass, Fennel, and Caraway. These essential oils have been shown to help stop the growth of mold.3 Adding these to your diet is beneficial since mycotoxins could be microscopically showing up in your food.

Lemon Balm, Sage, Coriander, Thyme, Cinnamon, and Peppermint. All of these have been shown to be beneficial in stopping some mycotoxins.4

Lemon and Clove. These have studies backing them that show how they can help mold from spreading.5

Thyme. This herb has been used for centuries. Now science backs up the benefits of using this essential oil.6 Thyme essential oil is rich in thymol—a terpene that is an especially active anti-spasmodic that can help reduce coughs.7

Tea Tree Oil. Also known as Melaleuca, Tea Tree Oil is a powerful anti-fungal. It is often used for treating small mold issues on fabrics and countertops. Add it to a spray bottle with some water and spray your shower walls. It can also be used to heal skin irritations.

Clove. Clove extract and clove oil have studies showing they stop fungus.7 This essential oil is also beneficial for the immune system.