Not to be confused with cellulite, the fatty deposits that can collect under the skin of the thighs and buttocks, cellulitis is a bacterial infection that occurs when bacteria enters the skin through a cut or scrape. Physicians most commonly treat cellulitis with oral or intravenous antibiotics, but many people may opt for a more holistic approach to treatment. Tea tree oil, which scientists purport has antiseptic properties, may help prevent infection of open cuts and wounds. You should always consult your physician before using tea tree oil to help treat or prevent cellulitis.
Cellulitis
People have bacteria that live on their skin most of the time, only becoming harmful when they enter the skin. The Mayo Clinic reports that the two most common bacteria responsible for cellulitis are staphylococcus and streptococcus. Symptoms of cellulitis include signs of infection such as fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches and sweating. The sore or rash may come on suddenly, seem to worsen over the next 24 hours and have sharp borders. The skin can appear tight, shiny and very warm to the touch. If left untreated, cellulitis can lead to a wide spread systemic infection called sepsis.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, also known as Melaleuca alternifolia, is created from the leaves of the tea tree plant, which grows native in the swampy coast of southeast Australia. To create the oil, manufacturers use a process known as steam distillation on the leaves of the plant. The Mayo Clinic explains that tea tree oil may contain antiseptic properties and natural practitioners use the oil topically to treat cuts, burns, insect bites, toothaches, and infections of the ear, nose, mouth, throat and vagina. People often add the oil to bath water to treat cough, pulmonary inflammation and chest congestion, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The Science
Numerous laboratory studies have demonstrated the antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil. Mayo Clinic explains that scientists believe the antimicrobial properties come from a compound known as terpinen-4-ol, though they have only published a small number of clinical trials on the compound. Some studies suggest that tea tree oil can help treat athlete's foot and help keep minor cuts and scrapes from becoming infected. No direct studies show that tea tree oil can treat or prevent cellulitis.
Warnings
Tea tree oil, like most naturopathic remedies, is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Some have reported skin reactions to tea tree oil, ranging from mild skin irritation to a blistering rash. The Mayo Clinic warns that people have had potentially severe reactions when taken orally, even in small doses. In some cases, people developed a rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, drowsiness, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, problems walking and, in extreme cases, confusion and coma. You should always consult your physician before using tea tree oil or any other naturopathic remedy.
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