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| and is excellent as an antifungal and antiseptic agent. The oil is added to facial steams, cleansers, soaps, toners, lotions, moisturizers, salves and bath preparations. It helps skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis as well as fungal infections such as diaper rash, jock itch, ringworm and athlete's foot. Tea tree oil is an excellent insect repellent and can deter mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and even scabies. It is also often an ingredient in shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses to help prevent dandruff and even head lice. The oil is also effective when applied directly to warts. It has been used to protect the skin from radiation burns during cancer therapy. Tea tree oil is nonirritating and, along with lavender oil, is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin without being diluted. |
| Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) |
| The leaves and flowers of thyme are antiseptic, aromatic and stimulating. Thyme is so powerful that during World War I it was used to disinfect soldiers' wounds. Thyme is included in facial steams, masks, cleansers, toners, bath preparations, soaps, deodorants and aftershave products. It helps treat acne, eczema and psoriasis. The essential oil is added to massage oils for sore muscles and can be applied topically to warts. It is used in antifungal preparations such as salves and washes to deter athlete's foot, ringworm, scabies, crabs and lice. It is also included in antidandruff products such as shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses and helps keep the hair dark and silky. Thyme is used in mouthwashes for its antiseptic properties and to prevent plaque formation. |
| Tragacanth (Astragalus gummifer) |
| Rich in mucilage and very demulcent, the gum-like resin of traganth is used as a thickening agent for lotions, moisturizers, hair styling gels, mascara and toothpastes. It also makes an excellent poultice for sunburned skin. |
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