Tea tree oil is an essential oil that is used for a variety of conditions and is easily obtained from health food and drug stores. There are some health concerns when tea tree oil is used improperly and can result in poisoning if ingested. Always check with your doctor before starting any new medications or supplements.
Facts
Tea tree oil is a fragrant oil that is extracted from the leaves of a tree native to Australia known as Melaleuca. It was first used as a traditional medicine by the indigenous Australians but gained popularity in the Western world after its anti-microbial and medicinal properties were reported in the 1920s. Tea tree oil contains many active compounds, but the November 2000 issue of "Inflammation Research" reports that most of the anti-microbial activity is due to the presence of the compound terpinen-4-ol. Tea tree oil can be inhaled or applied topically depending on the desired effect, but it is not safe to consume.
Benefits
Tea tree oil has many potential applications due to its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Topical application of the oil is effective at treating athlete's food, nail fungus and acne, according to the NIH. Use of the oil for these applications is effective but may take longer than currently marketed drugs. Some even use the oil to treat cuts or burns to prevent wound infection. The oil can also be added to baths to treat chest congestion and coughs.
Poisoning
Tea tree oil is safe when applied topically but may cause irritation in some people. Poisoning can occur when taken by mouth, according to both the NIH and the American Cancer Society. Symptoms of tea tree oil poisoning may include rash, confusion, problems with balance and coma in serious cases. In addition to poisoning, low doses of tea tree oil may result in resistance to traditional antibiotics, according to the October 2006 issue of the "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy." Tea tree oil should not be used by children or women who are nursing or pregnant.
Avoiding Toxic Effects
To avoid the toxic effects of tea tree oil, it is important to follow the recommended dosages. You should never ingest tea tree oil, and it should be kept out of the reach of children due to the possibility of poisoning. The interactions of tea tree oil with other drugs are not known, so it is important to speak with your doctor about other medications you are taking. In general, tea tree oil is safe and effective when used properly.
References
- "Inflammation Research"; Terpinen-4-ol, the Main Component of the Essential Oil of Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree Oil); PH Hart et al; November 2000
- National Institutes of Health: Tea Tree Oil
- American Cancer Society: Tea Tree Oil
- "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy"; Habituation to Sub-lethal Concentrations of Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is Associated with Reduced Susceptibility to Antibiotics In Human Pathogens; MAS McMahon et al; October 2006
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