It seems like everywhere we look people are obsessing about hygiene, germs and disinfecting. Growing up as a child I used to eat mud pies (made from literal mud, not the fancy ice cream dessert), so I'm not the best reference for hyper-cleanliness. Although now that I have a child, I am definitely more "on alert" and aware of passing on germs and preventing illness whenever possible. In light of all this seriousness, I try to take it all into account and not go overboard, as it's been clearly stated that some amount of dirt and germs are good for a growing child's immune system (plus this was another justification to have a huge dog - it's boot camp for her immune system, right?!).
One of my favorite lines of defense in keeping our house and selves clean and pristine is tea tree oil. It's safe, been used for hundreds of years (first by Australian Aboriginals), and 100% natural. I personally love the idea that one tiny bottle of oil can be so powerful that you only need a few drops to have a supreme effect. I've collected from some books and online sources (I cannot remember all the references as I've had a list so long with no links) my favorite ways to use this fantastic and versatile oil. If you've never used tea tree oil, now is the time to try as we give you plenty of ways to use it! And oh yes, we just happen to sell Organic Tea Tree Oil at Shak-Shuka just in case you need any (where we also have more tips for using this amazing oil!)!!
- Use "neat" on the skin to treat acne
- Disinfectant - when traveling or at home, use it directly on skin when there is a cut or bite, as it helps to disinfect the affected area
- An anti-fungal for treating Athlete’s Foot, eczema, various yeast infections, etc. Apply a drop or two into a olive or sesame oil and apply to infection (external) skin.
- An anti-viral: it may lessen the symptoms of colds and flu. Try using a few drops in the bath.
- Add to a vaporizer to loosen chest congestion.
- Add a few drops to shampoo to help kill head lice
- To keep germs at bay, create your own spray by adding a few drops to a spray bottle filled with hot water, a bit of white vinegar. Use it on high chairs, car seats, and other high traffic spots.
- 15 drops in a quart of water can be an effective insect repellent.
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