Tea tree oil is also known as Melaleuca alternifolia cheel. The oil is distilled from the leaves of the melaleuca atlernifolia. Tea tree oil has not undergone many studies to show its effectiveness in treating health conditions. Laboratory tests however, according to MayoClinic.com, have shown tea tree to have antimicrobial properties. Exercise caution when using tea tree oil, and never take it internally.
Function
Tea tree oil is used in some shampoos and conditioners as a gentle stripper. The tea tree oil gently removes oil from the hair and scalp. It is also known to help get rid of dandruff and fight bacteria.
Types
Tea tree oil is found in shampoos or gel form for hair products. While studies have not been done to test and measure the effectiveness of tea tree oil in hair products, MayoClinic.com indicates a common dose is 5 to 10 percent of tea tree oil.
Some products on the market contain teat tree oil. Another option is to add tea tree oil directly into your own hair products.
Benefits
Tea tree oil is used in traditional medicine for some cultures. The Australian indigenous people have used tea tree oil to treat a variety of health conditions like eczema and acne. It is very concentrated and if you are adding your own tea tree oil to your shampoo, you only need a couple of drops.
Warnings
Tea tree oil has not been evaluated for its safety or effectiveness in treating health or skin conditions. Using tea tree oil externally and internally raises the risk for severe health problems.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also warns that tea tree oil may cause breast growth in boys. More studies need to be conducted, but early studies have shown a link between enlarged breast tissue in prepubescent boys and use of tea tree oil.
Side Effects
When used topically, MayoClinic.com indicates it can cause allergic reactions, rashes, blistering and itching.
Some tea tree oil remedies include ingesting the tea tree oil or rinsing the mouth with it. Internal use of tea tree oil is not recommended as it can cause severe rash, stomach pain, diarrhea, lethargy, confusion, problems walking, breathing issues and coma.
MayoClinic.com also reports that animal studies showed that use of tea tree oil in large quantities resulted in some cases of problems walking, weakness, muscle tremors, poor coordination, reduced hearing and slower brain function.
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