Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the tea tree. Although it has many uses and potential benefits, you should consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy. The safety of tea tree oil during pregnancy is unproven, but it may be beneficial to use in some ways while you are pregnant.
Uses
According to National Institutes of Health website Medline Plus, tea tree oil is sometimes applied to the skin to treat acne and fungal infections. It is also used as an antiseptic for cuts, burns and insect bites. Tea tree oil is found in some hair products that are designed to treat dandruff.
Safety
MayoClinic.com states that there is not a lot of evidence to indicate the safety of using tea tree oil during pregnancy. It appears to be safe for use on skin during pregnancy, but you should talk to your doctor before using it for any reason. Your doctor can help you determine if the benefits of using tea tree oil during your pregnancy outweigh the risks of using something that has not been extensively studied.
Warning
It is not safe to take tea tree oil by mouth, whether you are pregnant or not. It can cause confusion, rash, toxicity and coma. It can also harm your unborn baby, so do not take tea tree oil orally.
Recommendations
If your doctor recommends that you use tea tree oil during pregnancy, ask him how much is appropriate for you to use. Follow his instructions carefully. You may experience irritation and dryness on your skin while using tea tree oil. If these side effects persist, stop using the tea tree oil until you can mention it to your doctor.
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