Special ingredient: tea tree oil: here's why an Australian tree's oil may be your ticket to healthier skin

If you were an Australian aborigine suffering from acne, dandruff or gingivitis, you'd seek out the paperbark tree. But since you're not in Australia, you can get the same benefits by going into your health food store and looking for tea tree oil.

"Tea tree oil is a good broad-spectrum antimicrobial [meaning it acts against bacteria, fungi and viruses] for use on minor skin infections," says Thomas Riley, PhD, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Western Australia. "It may also have a role as a treatment for some vaginal infections, such as thrash. We have also found it effective in treating cold sores caused by herpes viruses." Just don't go full strength: Riley cautions that 100 percent tea tree oil can be a skin irritant. Instead, look for products formulated at 5-10 percent--or made with diluted oil--at your local health food store. It's easier than finding a paperbark tree.

FACE..

DERMA-E TEA TREE FACE AND BODY WASH combines tea tree oil with herbal extracts to gently cleanse, moisturize and stimulate your skin.

SKIN.. AURA CACIA CLEANSING TEA TREE STICK can be used on bug bites and blemishes, and the roller stick makes for precise application of this blend of coconut, jojoba and tea tree oils.

HAIR.. GIOVANNI TEA TREE TRIPLE TREAT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER, which also contain peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary and many more organic ingredients, are designed to invigorate your hair.

SKIN.. HOME HEALTH TEA TREE OIL can work as a DEET-free bug repellent or help dry out blemishes.

MOUTH.. THURSDAY PLANTATION'S THE ORIGINAL TEA TREE AUSTRALIAN CHEWING STICKS are birch sticks treated with tea tree oil and cinnamon--a fun, gum-healthy way to freshen breath and promote oral hygiene.

BODY.. DESERT ESSENCE ACTIVE SPORT TEA TREE HAIR & BODY WASH is an all-in-one shampoo and skin cleanser that will fit easily into your gym bag. A bonus: The tea tree oil helps banish breakouts from a sweaty workout.

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