Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, an evergreen native to Australia. Australian natives used the crushed leaves to treat skin conditions, and in World War I, the oil derived from tea tree leaves helped Australian soldiers disinfect wounds. Today, tea tree oil is added to numerous products, such as soap.
Antibacterial
Tea tree oil's antibacterial qualities can help disinfect skin surfaces and help prevent infection. The evolution of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria has caused problems, especially in healthcare settings. According to the American Cancer Society, or ACS, tea tree oil may help kill bacteria on the skin that are resistant to antibiotics such as methicillin and vancomycin. The journal "Clinical Microbiology Reviews" states that most bacteria are killed by products that contain 1 percent concentrations of tea tree oil, but some types of bacteria, such as skin staphylococci and micrococci, require concentrations exceeding 2 percent tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has demonstrated results comparable to benzoyl peroxides in fighting acne, with fewer side effects.
Antifungal
Tea tree oil soap may help treat fungal skin infections, though the evidence to support this use is conflicting. Tea tree oil has been used to treat fungal skin conditions such as athlete's foot, and the ACS notes that some evidence indicates it may be as effective as traditional pharmaceutical remedies, such as clotrimazole cream, in treating fungal toenail infections. Still, ACS expresses skepticism regarding the effectiveness of tea tree oil soaps in treating human skin infections, and CoxHealth notes that even though tea tree oil products have been observed to reduce the symptoms of athlete's foot, it did not eradicate the fungus.
Antiviral
Washing your hands with tea tree oil soap may help stop the spread of viral infections. According to "Clinical Microbiology Reviews," tea tree oil has been used to kill viral infections in plants, and laboratory studies have shown that it can inhibit the activity of the herpes simplex virus.
Considerations
In addition to soaps, other products that deliver topical applications of tea tree oil include body wash, cream and shampoo. Some people have experienced skin irritation in conjunction with the use of tea tree oil. If you experience any rash or discomfort after using tea tree oil soap, discontinue use and consult your physician. Tea tree oil is poisonous and should never be taken internally.
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