Valued for its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. The amount of tea tree oil you use can vary depending on your health status. A physician who is familiar with your medical history is the only person who can tell you how much tea tree oil you should use. For these reasons, seek guidance from your doctor before beginning treatment with tea tree oil.
Acne
The antibacterial properties of tea tree oil make it an effective treatment against acne, a skin condition commonly caused by the overgrowth of bacteria and overproduction of oil. To diminish acne, you can apply a 5 percent tea tree oil preparation directly to the affected skin region. For best results, apply tea tree oil at least once daily after thoroughly cleansing your skin.
Nail Fungus
If you have a fungal nail infection called onychomycosis, you might benefit from using tea tree oil. Applying a 100 percent tea tree oil solution to your affected nails two times each day for six months can help reduce nail thickening, discoloration and brittleness caused by the fungal infection.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, also called tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that causes intense itching and inflammation across your feet. You can help reduce foot discomfort by applying a 25 percent to 50 percent tea tree oil solution to your feet twice daily for at least one month. Alternatively, you can apply a 10 percent tea tree oil cream to your affected feet two times every day for one month.
Potential Side Effects
While using tea tree oil, you might experience mild side effects, such as itching, redness or dryness. Tea tree oil also can cause burning or tingling sensations if you get it in your eyes or nose. Do not ingest tea tree oil or apply this topical treatment to open wounds or broken skin. Consuming tea tree oil might cause severe nerve damage, resulting in diminished motor coordination, confusion and coma. Prepubescent boys shouldn't use tea tree oil unless instructed by a doctor. This herbal oil might have estrogen-like properties and cause breast swelling, a condition called gynecomastia, in young boys.
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