Tea tree oil, distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, shows anti-infective activity against bacteria, fungi and viruses, according to The Linus Pauling Institute of Oregon State University. Used topically, tea tree oil has a rich history as a home remedy for certain skin conditions, and recent studies lend scientific credence to these claims. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends a skin patch test before use to assess potential allergic reactions to components of the oil.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects your feet, but can also involve other warm, moist areas of your body, such as your groin. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center claims that a 10 percent tea tree oil cream, while not effective in curing athlete's foot, offers a significant reduction in athlete's foot symptoms. When compared to the standard treatment of 1 percent tolnaftate cream, which causes minor skin irritation, The Linus Pauling Institute reports that 10 percent tea tree oil shows no adverse side effects.
Acne
A common and often-embarrassing skin condition, skin lesions, particularly on the face and neck and that are prone to infection, characterize acne. Dr. Shahia Enshaieh demonstrates, in the January-February 2007 volume of the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology," that a 5 percent tea tree oil gel is effective in treating mild to moderate acne, and is well-tolerated. Similarly, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports that 5 percent tea tree oil gel is as effective as a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide lotion, with fewer side effects, in treating mild to moderate acne.
MRSA
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a strain of staph bacteria that is resistant to common antibiotics. MRSA skin infections are of particular concern for people with compromised immune systems in hospitals, and can be fatal. In the Nov. 28, 2008, volume of "BMC Infectious Diseases," Dr. Gillian Thompson advises that a 5 percent tea tree oil wash is effective in removing MRSA from the skin, and she is studying the effectiveness of a tea tree oil body wash as a preventive measure in MRSA skin colonization. While it holds promise as a means to control MRSA, tea tree oil is not a substitute for a doctor's close management of this dangerous infection.
Dandruff
A small amount of dandruff is normal for most people, but excessive dandruff can be distressing for those who experience it. Medicated shampoos are a common treatment for dandruff, but they are not always effective and may cause unwanted side effects, such as scalp dryness or hair discoloration. The Mayo Clinic reports that a 5 percent tea tree oil shampoo may effectively treat mild to moderate dandruff without side effects.
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