Tea tree oil is derived from the steam distillation of the melaleuca alternifolia tree. This natural essential oil contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties and is popularly used in cosmetics, soaps and cleansers. Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat acne of the skin; however, it may also prevent and treat internal infections of the lungs and respiratory passages. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the main air passages to the lungs that usually occurs after a viral or bacterial infection. Adding tea tree oil to a vapor rub or steam inhalation can help soothe symptoms of bronchitis. However, it's important to consult your doctor before treating any type of infection with natural remedies.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchioles, the tree-like passageways to your lungs, but can also affect your throat, sinuses and nose. Acute bronchitis usually occurs after a respiratory viral infection and typically does not last more than a few days to weeks. In more severe cases, a secondary bacterial infection may occur. You are at higher risk of bronchitis if you suffer from asthma and allergies, are a smoker or have a heart or lung condition. The elderly, young children and infants are also vulnerable. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term illness that causes a mucus-producing cough.
Symptoms
Both acute and chronic bronchitis cause symptoms that may include chest discomfort,
chest pain, sinus pain, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, a low-grade fever, fatigue and a nasal drip. PubMed Health notes that if your cough produces mucus that is yellow or green in color, you likely have a bacterial infection. Even after acute bronchitis has cleared, you may have a dry, nagging cough that lingers for several weeks. In more severe cases of chronic bronchitis, you may experience leg, ankle and feet swelling or a bluish tint to the lips due to lowered levels of oxygen in the body.
Treatment
Most cases of bronchitis stem from viral infections; therefore, they are not treatable by antibiotics. PubMed Health advises that bronchitis typically subsides on its own within a week. Avoid smoking, second-hand smoke and polluted areas, drink plenty of fluids and rest. A humidifier for steam inhalation may also help soothe the throat and lungs. Adding tea tree oil to the water adds anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties to help treat your bronchitis. The Mayo Clinic notes that these antiseptic qualities are most likely due to the compound terpinen-4-ol in tea tree leaves.
Warning
The Guardian newspaper reported in 2007 that tea tree oil was found to cause allergic reactions and skin rashes in some users. Tea tree oil should never be used orally or ingested. Even when inhaled or applied to the skin, this pungent essential oil can cause irritation and an allergic condition called contact dermatitis. Use tea tree oil only as directed and in the recommended doses.
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