Vaginitis is an infection of vagina that can be caused by fungi or bacteria. The fungal infection is caused by a disruption in normally occurring organisms of vagina. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, fungal vaginal infection affects about 75 percent of all women at least once in their lifetime. Tea tree oil, or Melaleuca alternifolia, has been researched for potential benefits in managing fungal infections of the vagina. Always consult a health care provider before using of tea tree oil for vaginal infections.
Research
According to the results of a study published in "Ceska gynekologie/Ceska lekarska spolecnost J. Ev. Purkyne" in September 2005, certain natural compounds were found to be effective in treating the symptoms of vaginitis. Tea tree oil was one among them. The authors indicated the effectiveness of tea tree oil in treating the vaginitis caused by candida and also by some other strains of fungi. Although the results of this study shows the antifungal effects of tea tree oil and other natural products for fungal infections of the vagina, more studies are required in order to confirm these findings.
Dosage
Seek the advice from your doctor regarding dosage, as the dose and application of tea tree oil varies according to different medical conditions. Tea tree oil comes in different forms and concentrations, ranging from 5 percent to 100 percent.
Safety and Drug Interactions
No specific side effects have been reported except for the skin irritation in some individuals after the use of tea tree oil. No drug interactions are currently documented. People with allergies to herbal products and supplements should not use tea tree oil. Not enough data is available regarding its use during pregnancy or lactation, so pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid the use of tea tree oil.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to learn more about tea tree oil supplements and optimal dosage that can help your condition. A healthy diet may also help manage fungal infections. Keep in mind that tea tree oil does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs recommended for fungal infections. Tea tree oil is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat candida or any other infections of the vagina.
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