Tea tree oil: Benefits and risks
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce symptoms of some skin conditions. However, it may also irritate the skin and have severe adverse effects if a person swallows it.
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil that comes from the leaves of the native Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia.
Manufacturers may use tea tree oil as an ingredient in cosmetics, topical medications, and household products.
This article discusses the potential benefits and risks of tea tree oil.
There is limited evidence showing that tea tree oil may help treat certain health conditions.
1. Acne
Some limited research suggests that tea tree oil may be beneficial for people with acne.
For example, a
2. Athlete’s foot
A
A 2023 systematic review noted that in studies from 1992 and 2002, clinical signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot improved in a greater proportion of study participants using tea tree oil in comparison to a placebo. However, the authors highlighted that some of the study participants experienced adverse effects, such as dermatitis, after using the tea tree oil.
3. Contact dermatitis
An
However, people need to remember that tea tree oil may induce allergic contact dermatitis or skin irritation in some individuals.
4. Dandruff
An older 2002 study suggested that mild to moderate dandruff relating to the yeast Pityrosporum ovale may be treatable with 5% tea tree oil.
Study participants with dandruff who used a 5% tea tree oil shampoo daily for 4 weeks showed significant improvements in overall severity and itchiness, scaliness, and greasiness levels in comparison with a placebo. The participants experienced no negative effects.
5. Head lice
Combining both substances, at a ratio of 1 part to 2, worked best to destroy both the lice and the eggs.
6. Nail fungus
A
However, a
7. Oral health
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People need to note that tea tree oil can cause serious adverse effects if they swallow it.
Applying tea tree oil topically or ingesting it carries several risks.
A person always needs to speak with a doctor before using any essential oils, including tea tree oil.
Risks associated with ingestion
Risks associated with topical applications
People may sometimes develop allergic contact dermatitis after using topical products containing tea tree oil. If they experience allergic contact dermatitis or skin irritation symptoms, they need to stop using these products.
People also need to dilute pure tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or coconut oil, before applying it to the skin to help prevent irritation.
Although research suggests essential oils may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these oils. A person should talk with a healthcare professional before using essential oils and research the quality of a particular brand’s products. It is also important to always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Tea tree oil has some medicinal properties that may be useful for treating conditions such as acne, contact dermatitis, and athlete’s foot.
However, research is limited, and further studies are necessary to determine whether tea tree oil is safe and effective for treating medical conditions.
Additionally, a person should
A person always needs to contact a doctor before using essential oils.
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