You hear “Tea Tree” and might think “astringent” or “medicinal”. But Coastal Tea Tree is very different. It’s one of those scents that defies description and really has to be experienced first-hand to capture its freshness and complexity.
Coastal tea tree, also known as Leptospermum laevigatum, is a species of tree native to coastal areas of Australia. It has a long history of use by Indigenous Australians for medicinal purposes and in more recent times, its essential oil has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits.
History of Coastal Tea Tree
Coastal tea tree has a rich history in Indigenous Australian culture, with the leaves and twigs of the plant being used to treat a range of ailments for centuries. It was often used as a natural antiseptic to help heal wounds and prevent infection. The leaves were also used to make a tea that was believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
In the 1770s, the British explorer Captain James Cook discovered coastal tea tree during his travels along the east coast of Australia. He named it the “tea tree” after seeing Aboriginies brewing a tea-like drink from its leaves. In the years that followed, the plant was further studied and its medicinal properties were documented.
In the early 20th century, the essential oil of coastal tea tree was discovered and its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties were recognised. Today it is used in a variety of products including soaps, shampoos and skincare items, as well as in aromatherapy and as a natural cleaning agent.
Benefits of Coastal Tea Tree
Coastal tea tree has a wide range of health benefits, thanks to its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are some of the key benefits of using coastal tea tree:
- Promotes Healthy Skin: Coastal tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic making it an effective treatment for acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. It can also help to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritation.
- Boosts Immune System: Coastal tea tree oil is rich in antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and protect against free radical damage.
- Improves Respiratory Health: Coastal tea tree oil has expectorant properties meaning it can help to loosen phlegm and mucus in the respiratory tract. This makes it an effective natural remedy for coughs, colds, and other respiratory conditions.
- Relieves Muscle Pain: Coastal tea tree oil has analgesic properties making it an effective natural remedy for muscle pain and soreness. It can also help to reduce inflammation in the muscles and joints.
- Fights Bacterial Infections: Coastal tea tree oil has strong antimicrobial properties, making it an effective natural remedy for bacterial infections. It can be used topically to treat wounds, cuts, and other skin infections.
Uses of Coastal Tea Tree
Coastal tea tree can be used in a variety of ways to improve your health and wellbeing. Here are some of the most common uses of this powerful plant:
- Aromatherapy: Coastal tea tree oil can be used in a diffuser or vaporiser to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It can also be added to bath water for a soothing and calming soak.
- Skincare: Coastal tea tree oil can be added to skincare products to help treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. It can also be used as a natural remedy for insect bites and stings.
- Cleaning: Coastal tea tree oil is a natural cleaning agent, thanks to its antimicrobial properties. It can be used to clean surfaces, floors, and even laundry.
- First Aid: Coastal tea tree oil can be applied topically to wounds, cuts, and other skin infections to help prevent infection and promote healing.
