Self Sufficiency
33 Incredible Uses For Tea Tree Oil Around The Homestead
Have you heard about the amazing uses for tea tree oil around the homestead? Find out the many benefits and uses for tree tea oil and you’ll never buy different harmful chemicals for different uses in the homestead again!
Uses For Tea Tree Oil You Should Know Now
Searching for the uses of tea tree oil in home cleaning revealed more than I expected in a common essential oil. It’s incredible that the solution for so many issues around the homestead, be it personal care, first aid, sanitation, pet, and livestock care is an essential oil I thought good only for aching muscles and joints. Of course, I’ll let you in on this amazing find, so I’ve listed the many uses for tea tree oil here.
Before you get too excited, let me remind you that the tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil does not come from the tea plant but the Melaleuca alternifolia which grow only in Australia. This is why you’ll find tea tree oil commonly used in Australian homes. Tea tree oil is toxic when ingested but its many uses for cleaning and disinfecting is undeniable. You’ll find out more about the many uses for tea tree oil as you read on. But of course, when in doubt, it’s best to consult a professional–especially if you’re using tea tree oil for medicinal purposes.
1. Antiseptic
One of the many uses for tea tree oil is for its antibacterial properties. It’s especially effective against topical bacterial infections.
- To keep wound bacteria-free, apply a drop of tea tree oil to a gauze bandage before dressing, and make sure to replace bandage daily.
2. Cough Relief
Taking prescription medicines for coughs always comes with precautions, so it’s good to consider alternative and natural ways to treat coughs.
- Add 10 drops of tea tree oil to a vaporizer and allow the machine to work for 1o minutes to address bronchial issues.
- Add two drops of tea tree oil to a pot of hot water and breathe the vapor for cough relief.
- Massage the chest with tea tree oil for cough relief.
3. First Aid
Make sure to include tea tree oil in your first aid kit now for its wonderful benefits in first aid.
- For minor cuts, burns, and insect bites apply a drop or two of tea tree oil to the affected area for its antiseptic and pain relief properties.
- Massage the feet of a victim of a traumatizing accident or mishap to help soothe shock.
4. Pest And Insect Repellant
Tea tree oil is also known to have pest and insect repelling properties as well as pesticidal benefits.
- Mix a cup of witch hazel and 2 tsp of tea tree oil to make a tick repellent spray you can apply to your shoes and your feet to repel ticks.
- Apply 2 drops of tea tree oil directly to ticks to eliminate these pesky parasites.
- Mix a quart of water with 15 drops of tea tree oil and apply to areas you want insects repelled.
5. Parasitic Infection Treatment
Since tea tree oil has antibacterial and pest-repelling properties, parasitic infections are no match for its healing abilities.
- Apply two drops of tea tree oil directly to areas affected with scabies in the morning and before bedtime for relief.
- Apply tea tree oil to both parasite and insect bites to help soothe and avoid infection in the affected areas.
6. Personal Care
Tea tree oil’s antibacterial and deodorizing properties make it effective in hygienic procedures.
- Make an antibacterial soap with 2 Tbsp of tea tree oil added to 3 lb. of cold processed soap before molding.
- Add 15 drops of tea tree oil to your bath for cleansing and soothing vaginal infection.
7. Pain Reliever
Tea tree oil has amazing penetrating agents and is a strong solvent making it effective for relieving bodily stresses and pain.
- Use tea tree oil to massage affected areas into the direction of the heart to soothe painful inflammation.
- Make a treatment for sunburn by mixing a drop of lavender oil, a drop of tea tree oil, and a teaspoon of coconut oil.
- Alleviate a toothache by applying a drop to the painful area but make sure not to ingest tea tree oil as it is toxic.
8. Anti-Fungal
What makes tea tree oil effective in getting rid of fungus is its terpinen content which kills infection-causing fungi.
- Apply a drop of tea tree oil to the wart, wrap it in a bandage to keep it dry for up to 2 hours. Repeat this process once in the morning and before bed until warts are gone.
- To get rid of ringworm, mix a drop of lavender oil and tea tree oil and apply twice a day every day.
- Treat and/or prevent fungal infection by applying tea tree oil to areas affected or may be affected by fungal infection.
9. Post-Natal Care
Luckily, natural plant-based solutions are made for your post- and pre-natal care so you won’t have to use chemicals. Make sure to dilute tea tree oil since they can be strong.
- Amazingly, tea tree oil is absorbed in the mammary tissue, so you can use it to alleviate painful breast sores or mastitis by making a compress of a mixture of warm water and tea tree oil.
- Disinfect your baby gear by spraying them with a mixture of water and tea tree oil.
10. Pet Care
Spare you beloved pets from chemicals, and use tea tree oil for their hygiene care and fighting off pesky parasites.
- Add 5 drops of tea tree oil in 1 tsp of warm olive oil then soak a soft cloth in the solution. Use it to wipe the inside of the ears of dogs to relieve ear mites.
- Make a solution of water and tea tree oil and spray it on the legs of your pets to repel ticks and other parasites.
11. Livestock Care
Your livestock is a valuable food source so care for them naturally and organically with tea tree oil.
- Mix a half teaspoon of salt and 10 drops of tea tree oil in a cup of warm water to make a teat dip to prevent mastitis in dairy animals.
12. Disinfectant
With tea tree oil’s ability to fight both fungus and bacteria, no wonder it’s an effective disinfectant.
- Add tea tree oil to make homemade disinfectant wipes.
- Put tea tree oil in a warm water solution for disinfecting and cleaning combs and hair brushes.
- Add a teaspoon of tea tree oil to a cup of vinegar and use this solution for cleaning taps, switches, light plates, door knobs and handles to prevent cold viruses.
- Put a drop of tea tree oil in your toothbrush to disinfect it.
13. Head Lice Treatment
Eliminate and prevent the spread of head lice with tea tree oil in this solution.
- Mix 20 drops of tea tree oil to 2 tablespoons of shampoo.
- Massage solution to your hair and scalp then soak for 20 minutes.
- Rinse and repeat the process until all eggs are gone.
14. All Around Home Care
Tea tree oil with its disinfecting properties makes an effective natural and chemical-free all-purpose house cleaner.
- You can use tea tree oil to treat wood furniture so they’re insect and pest proof.
- Keep your washing machine smelling fresh by adding a teaspoon of tea tree oil to your detergent.
- Fight mildew and mold by making a solution of 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of tea tree oil you can apply to affected areas.
15. Oral Care
As an effective antibacterial, bad germs and bacteria in the mouth are no-match to tea tree oil.
- Mix tea tree oil and purified water to make a powerful mouthwash to freshen your breath. Again, make sure not to swallow it.
- Mix a cup of warm water and a drop of tea tree oil and gargle the solution to get rid of thrush and other gum diseases.
16. Air Freshener
Tea tree oil’s natural aromatherapeutic scent and antibacterial properties make it an effective deodorant.
- Soak cotton balls in tea tree oil and place them in the area where you want to get rid of foul odor or freshen the air.
17. Rheumatic Pain Relief
I repeat, tea tree oil is a natural solvent and is easily absorbed into the skin so its healing properties becomes more effective with absorption.
- For joint pain, dilute tea tree oil with water and apply as needed to painful joints.
- Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil and massage in areas affected by gout for pain relief.
- To reduce arthritis pain, massage the affected area with a mixture of 2 oz. of grapeseed oil with 20 drops of tea tree oil on the afflicted joint three times a day.
- For rheumatism pain, massage a mixture of 2 oz. carrier oil with 20 drops of tea tree oil on afflicted part twice a day.
18. Body Pain Relief
How do you relieve muscle pain with tea tree oil? Try these effective ways:
- For muscle pain, bathe in warm water added with a few drops of tea tree oil to relax and relieve your muscle pain. You may also add half a cup of Epsom salt for added benefits.
- For painful sciatica, you can use a mixture of a tablespoon of carrier oil and 10 drops of tea tree oil to massage the afflicted area to up to 3 times a day.
19. Anti-Viral
Here are some ways to use the antiviral properties of tea tree oil to prevent viral infections.
- Make a steam from hot water and tea tree oil and inhale the vapor to fight viruses which cause colds.
- Massage tea tree oil on your feet and body to get relief from mumps.
20. Immune System Booster
Tea tree oil stimulates the immune system with its antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
- If possible, use tea tree oil and spread it around the home because this will help boost your immune system.
- Increase your body’s response to your immune system by regularly massaging it in the soles of your feet.
21. Facial Care
Avoid using harmful chemicals in your sensitive facial skin and use natural tea tree oil instead.
- Use tea tree oil diluted in water as a natural make-up remover.
- Cleanse your face and remove blemishes by using cotton dabbed in tea tree oil to clean the affected areas.
- Apply a mixture of 1 spoonful of coconut oil mixed with 2 drops of tea tree oil to soothe razor burn.
22. Deodorizer
Tea tree oil has a natural strong aroma and ability to kill odor-causing bacteria.
- Intensify your homemade deodorant by adding 25 drops to your recipe.
- Or, simply mix baking soda, coconut oil, and tea tree oil to make a homemade deodorant which effectively eliminates body odor and the bacteria that causes the odor.
23. Mosquito Repellent
Tea tree oil can actually smother an insect by dissolving its exoskeleton. Its terpene content is what drives insects like mosquitoes away.
- Make a homemade mosquito repellent and add tea tree oil.
- Get relief from mosquito bites by using a cotton ball with a drop of tea tree oil to dab at the swelling.
24. Tonsilitis And Sore Throat Relief
Get natural relief from oral diseases and discomforts with tea tree oil.
- Get relief from a sore throat by gargling a solution of warm water, 3 drops of tea tree oil and a half teaspoon of salt.
- Soothe tonsillitis by inhaling the steam of boiling water and tea tree oil.
- For relief from laryngitis, mix a cup of warm water, 10 drops of tea tree oil, and a pinch of salt and use it as a gargle.
25. Hair And Scalp Care
Tea tree oil’s antifungal, aromatic, and antibacterial abilities make it effective for hair care.
- Prevent dandruff by rinsing hair in cider vinegar mixed with 25 drops of tea tree oil.
- Moisturize your hair and dry scalp by soaking it in carrier oil with tea tree oil. Soak it for at least half an hour before washing.
- Use tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil to massage the scalp and promote hair growth.
26. Pimple And Acne Treatment
Pimples and acne are caused by bacteria which tea tree oil can easily deal with.
- Add 40 drops of tea tree oil to a bottle of facial wash to get rid or prevent acne breakouts.
- You can also treat acne with a solution of 1 tsp of hot water and 1 drop of tea tree oil dabbed on zits.
27. Foot Care
Since tea tree oil is aromatic and antifungal, foot problems are no biggie.
- Prevent athletes’ foot by adding 10 drops of tea tree oil and half a cup of Epsom salt to your foot bath.
- Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda and a teaspoon of tea tree oil and use it to deodorize your shoes.
- Apply tea tree oil to nail to fight and prevent nail fungus.
28. Sanitizer
Considering tea tree oil is an effective antiseptic, dealing with bacteria in your surroundings is no problem.
- Make a homemade hand sanitizer by mixing 30 drops of tea tree oil, 10 drops of clove oil, 10 drops of lavender oil and 8 oz of aloe vera gel.
- Pour a few drops of tea tree oil into a water bottle and spritz the wound to sanitize it.
29. Cold Relief
Again, tea tree oil is antibacterial and antiviral which a common cough and cold are caused by.
- Add 10 drops of tea tree oil to a vaporizer and allow it to work for 5 to 10 minutes, and use it to get rid of sinusitis.
- Fight cold by steaming water with 8 drops of tea tree oil added, then breathe the steam for about 10 minutes to get relief.
30. Cicatrizant
Use tea tree oil to help wounds heal quickly and get rid of scars from wounds, chicken pox, boils, and others.
- For smaller areas, directly apply tea tree oil to cuts, wounds, and scars. Clean your wounds first with tea tree oil diluted in water before direct application.
31. Skin Care
Effectively and naturally groom with the natural properties of tea tree oil.
- Mix two drops of carrier oil, 1 tablespoon of sweet almond, and 2 drops of tea tree oil to make a moisturizing oil. Apply to dry skin as needed.
- Add tea tree oil to your lip balm and use it to prevent chapped lips.
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil to coconut oil and massage skin with rashes to eliminate.
32. Home Linens Care
Isn’t it amazing? Even natural laundry care is covered by tea tree oil.
- Add a few teaspoons of tea tree oil to your laundry to make them smell fresh.
- Add half a teaspoon of tea tree oil to laundry to prevent molds.
33. All-Purpose Home Cleaner
One of the many uses of tea tree oil is antiseptic, so it’s no wonder it’s an effective cleaning agent.
- Mix two cups of water and 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil and spray this solution when cleaning the kitchen and toilet.
- Make another homemade all-purpose cleaner by mixing 2 cups of water and 15 drops of tea tree oil.
Enjoy the many uses for tea tree oil by making these recipes in this video:
Users of tea tree oil vouch for its seemingly miraculous properties and abilities. I myself have found many of the uses for tea tree oil quite incredible–I had just to find it out for myself. Find out for yourself too and experience the many incredible uses for tea tree oil!
Do you use tea tree oil in your home? What are your favorite uses for tea tree oil? Share with us in the comments section below.
Up Next: 10 Coconut Oil Survival Uses For The Savvy Survivalist
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How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar
The thing about homesteading is you get to create your own ingredient right from scratch! Cheese, yogurt, butter and now sauerkraut, a delightfully sour and crunchy ingredient you can use on your meals — or consume by itself — while on a homestead, or while facing this health crisis!
This homemade sauerkraut is a great meal because it has a long shelf life. You can either make plain sauerkraut or mix it with herbs and spices. In this tutorial let us make Lacto-fermented sauerkraut that preserves all the good probiotics in a jar, good for your guts.
So how to make sauerkraut in a mason jar?
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Delicious Sauerkraut Recipe Every Homesteader Should Know
Why Make Sauerkraut?
Not only does sauerkraut spoil a long time, but it is also a meal in itself, and it is also easy to make! You don’t need to be an expert cook, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.
So let us get started. Here are the steps in making sauerkraut in a mason jar.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage or 2 1/2 lbs cabbage
- 1 tablespoon of salt
Tools Needed:
- knife
- bowl
- mason jar
- smaller jar
- rubber band
Step 1: Wash & Clean the Tools & Ingredients
Wash all the equipment and utensils you need. Wash your hands too.
You don’t want to mix your sauerkraut with bad bacteria, anything that is going to make you sick.
Next, remove the faded leaves from your cabbage. Cut off the roots and the parts that don’t seem fresh.
Step 2: Cut the Cabbage Into Quarters & Slice Into Strips
Cut your cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, slice it into strips.
Step 3: Place in a Bowl & Sprinkle With Salt
Put the stripped cabbage into a bowl. Sprinkle the cabbage with 1 tablespoon of salt.
TIP: Use canning salt or sea salt. Iodized salt will make it taste different and may not ferment the cabbage.
RELATED: Homemade Yogurt Recipe
Step 4: Massage the Cabbage
Massage the cabbage for five minutes or more to get the juice out.
TIP: You’ll know it’s ready when you see a bit of juice at the bottom of the bowl and will look similar to coleslaw.
Step 5: Press Cabbage Into the Mason Jar
Add the cabbage to the mason jar gradually. Press it in hard to allow the juice to come out. Do this every time you add about a handful of cabbage.
IMPORTANT: Food should be covered by the liquid to promote fermentation. Add any excess liquid from the bowl to the jar.
Step 6: Press a Smaller Jar Into the Mason Jar
You want to squeeze every ounce of that juice from the cabbage. To do this place the mason jar in a bowl and get a smaller jar.
Fill it with water or marble to make it heavy. Press it into the bigger mason jar. Allow any juices to rise to the surface.
Step 7: Cover the Jars With Cloth & Tie With Rubber Band
Leave the small jar on. To keep your jars clean from annoying insects and irritating debris, cover your jars with a clean cloth. Then, use a rubber band to tie the cloth and the jars together, putting them in place.
Step 8: Set Aside & Check Daily
Set it aside in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight. Check the water level daily. It should always be above the cabbage.
Step 9: Taste Your Sauerkraut & Keep at Cool Temperatures
After about five days, you can taste your sauerkraut. If the taste is to your liking, tightly cover it with the lid and store in the fridge or cellar.
NOTE: If after five days it’s still not your desired taste, leave it for a few more days. This will allow the fermentation process to continue.
You can now enjoy your sauerkraut in a mason jar. Enjoy its goodness! You can use it as a side dish or mix it with your favorite sandwich.
Things to Remember in Making Sauerkraut
- Store away from direct sunlight and drafts.
- Colder weather will make the process longer. Spring is the best time to make them since the warmth helps activate the fermentation.
- Always make sure that the cabbage is below the water level during the entire fermentation process.
- If the water level decreases during the fermentation process, you can make a brine and add it.
Let us watch this video from Kristina Seleshanko on how to make delicious Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar!
So there you have it! Making Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar is as easy as slicing the cabbage into strips. Remember that as long it remains unopened, your sauerkraut can last for months. Best of all, you can partner this sauerkraut in many recipes.
What do you think of this homemade recipe? Share your best sauerkraut recipe in the comments section below!
Fellow homesteaders, do you want to help others learn from your journey by becoming one of our original contributors? Write for us!
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9 SPRING VEGETABLES FOR YOUR GARDEN
Having plants in the house will bring peace to people. Having a little garden with vegetables is even better! You can grow these vegetables in your backyard garden easily as well!
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In this article:
Growing veggies in your garden will give you an opportunity to understand what you eat and value it more. Early spring is when most vegetables are being planted. Keep reading to learn about 9 spring vegetables that anyone can grow in their garden!
Tomato
Tomato is the most popular garden vegetable in the States! There are different varieties to choose from. Tomatoes need to be planted in early spring because they won’t survive a frost.
Because tomatoes are consumed daily, try adding them to your garden! They’re not difficult to grow either.
Eggplant
Eggplants are known to have low-calorie, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Plus, they are delicious! So why not plant them in your garden?
Eggplants shouldn’t be planted too early because they won’t be able to survive a frost. So you could consult an expert in your area before you plant your eggplants.
Beets
Beets are known to be a superfood for its various health benefits. They’re easier to grow in the garden, usually around late March or early April.
If the weather is always cool, beets will keep getting bigger and bigger. Once the weather starts to warm up, you’ll need to harvest them, or they’ll go to waste.
Spinach
Spinach is a delicious early spring veggie, and it’s also very beneficial for health. And it’s not difficult to grow spinach in your garden!
Spinach needs cold weather to grow. Getting spinach to grow is easy, but keeping it growing will require some extra care.
Pea
Peas are usually planted in late April. Peas will die in freezing temperatures, but they also won’t survive the heat either. So make sure you plant your peas in early spring.
Peas are widely used in many different ways, and there are different types of peas. The soil you’ll be planting your peas should be suitable for them, so make sure you ask while buying seeds.
Carrot
There are different types of carrots, but regardless of their size and color, it’s a fact that carrots are both delicious and rich in vitamins.
They’re root vegetables, so with proper sun and watering, they can be picked up as baby carrots as well.
Radish
A radish is an excellent option for beginners because it doesn’t require too much care. Radish is easy to harvest.
Radish grows fast, so it’s better to keep an eye on it after a few weeks. Radish usually is grown pest-free, but there’s always the chance of unwanted guests, so watch out for worms. Radish can be eaten raw or can be added to garnish recipes.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower isn’t the easiest vegetable to grow at home, but it is very popular.
Cauliflower grows better in colder weather, so before you plant it, consider the climate of your garden. Cauliflower can be eaten raw or cooked, and it is known to be very beneficial for health.
Asparagus
Freshly picked, tender asparagus is very delicious!
Asparagus plants get more productive with each harvest, and mature asparagus harvest can last for months! Make sure you plant them at the correct time, or else they might go to waste.
All the vegetables listed above are great for your healthy diet, and it’s fun to watch them grow. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to grow your own veggies and eat healthy this spring!
So tell us which veggies will you be growing this spring? Tell us in the comments section!
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