Impetigo is a highly contagious, itchy skin infection caused by bacteria that penetrates the skin's surface, often through a cut or a scratch. While anyone can develop impetigo, children are more likely to suffer from it. Symptoms might be mild and include a rash and red sores around the mouth and nose. Tea tree oil might be beneficial in treating mild impetigo symptoms, although clinical research verifying its effectiveness is lacking. Impetigo might clear up on its own, but in rare cases can lead to serious disorders, so see your doctor about the best way to treat the condition.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is the highly concentrated oil extracted from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, which is native to Australia. The oil contains terpenes, which might produce antimicrobial, antiviral, and antimyotic effects, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines," meaning tea tree oil might destroy some types of bacteria, virus and fungus.
Potential Benefits
Two types of bacteria cause impetigo, one related to staph bacteria and the other to strep bacteria. A 2003 review of clinical trials conducted at Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and Plymouth in the United Kingdom, concluded that tea tree oil might be beneficial in treating infections caused by staph bacteria. The review indicated that evidence of beneficial results is weak, however, and that "rigorous clinical trials" are necessary to confirm the oil's benefits.
Method of Use
Apply an over-the-counter salve or ointment that contains tea tree oil directly to the affected skin, according to the package directions. Tea tree oil is available in some soaps, and the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" suggests adding two or three drops of the oil to laundry rinse water and bath water. Do not apply undiluted tea tree oil to the skin or use products containing tea tree oil near the eyes. The "Gale Encyclopedia" recommends diluting tea tree oil by mixing 18 drops of the oil into one-eighth of a cup of almond oil before applying the mixture to the skin.
Considerations
Impetigo caused by strep bacteria increases the risk of certain types of kidney and tissue disorders in rare cases, according to MayoClinic.com. Impetigo caused by staph bacteria can lead to serious skin, blood and respiratory infections. See your doctor if you think you or your child has impetigo.
Tea tree oil generally is safe for most people when used as directed, but since no conclusive evidence exists that the oil will treat impetigo, use it only as part of a doctor-recommended treatment plan.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Impetigo Causes
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy"; K.W. Martin, et. al., February 2003
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