What is tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). It is up to seven meters high, evergreen and from the myrtle family (Myrtaceae). It prefers to grow in humid locations, along watercourses and swampy areas in subtropical regions. In addition, the tea tree is grown for commercial purposes on large plantations in Australia and other countries such as India.
It was probably the botanist Dr. Joseph Banks, who accompanied James Cook on his first South Seas expedition in the 18th century, who coined the name “tea tree.” The men observed how Australian aborigines prepared an infusion from the leaves and used it medicinally. The healing properties of tea tree leaves have been more extensively researched over the centuries.
What is tea tree oil used for?
- Skin infections caused by bacteria or fungi – also boils, athlete’s foot and nail fungus
- Infection with MRSA during hospitalization (MRSA = multi-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
- Infections in the intimate area such as vaginal fungus (Candida infection), also cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix)
According to an expert committee of the European Medicines Agency – the HMPC (Herbal Medicinal Product Committee) – the external use of tea tree oil is medically recognized as a traditional herbal medicine in the following cases:
- small, superficial wounds
- insect bites
- small ulcers (boils, acne)
- itching and skin irritation caused by athlete’s foot
- slight inflammation of the oral mucosa
If your symptoms persist for a long time or even worsen despite treatment, you should always consult a doctor.
How does tea tree oil work?
Tea tree essential oil contains a variety of different components. The main ingredient is terpinen-4-ol.
How is tea tree oil used?
The essential oil is applied externally. You can apply it in a 0.5- to 10-percent solution to the affected skin areas one to three times a day.
Sometimes the undiluted application of tea tree oil is recommended – such as applying a few drops of the pure essential oil to a hair follicle inflammation (folliculitis, boils). However, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warns against this, as undiluted or highly concentrated tea tree oil can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
You can also use tea tree oil for a compress for a local skin infection. To do this, mix 0.7 to 1 milliliter of the essential oil with 100 milliliters of water, wet a wound dressing with it and apply to the affected skin area.
In the trade, already diluted solutions as well as semi-solid preparations such as creams and ointments with the essential oil are also available.
What side effects can tea tree oil cause?
The external application of tea tree oil may trigger skin irritations and allergic reactions. Pain, itching, burning or redness are possible consequences.
This is especially true if the oil used has been stored too long or incorrectly: In the presence of oxygen, as well as light and higher temperatures, the oil ages – oxidation processes produce compounds that irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions.
Tea tree oil is toxic when ingested. Oral use can cause vomiting, diarrhea, confusion or incoordination. People have also fallen into comas because of it. However, no deaths have been reported. Therefore, never swallow tea tree oil!
What you should consider when using tea tree oil
Test the essential oil for skin compatibility before use. To do this, put a drop in the crook of your arm. If the skin then reddens, begins to itch or burn, refrain from using it.
There are no studies to date on whether the use of tea tree oil is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The findings on the use in children under twelve years of age are insufficient. Therefore, to be on the safe side, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using the medicinal plant during pregnancy, breastfeeding or on children under twelve.
Experts recommend using tea tree oil only diluted as a precaution. It should also not come into contact with eyes, ears or burned skin areas.
How to get tea tree oil
Cosmetic products based on tea tree oil as well as the pure essential oil are available in pharmacies and drugstores. Pharmacists can also mix appropriate ointments, creams or solutions – tailored to the individual needs of the customer.
For the correct use of tea tree oil, please refer to the respective package insert or ask your doctor or pharmacist.
