What side effects does tea tree oil cause?
Various side effects can occur when using tea tree oil. In this case, a doctor should be consulted to decide whether it should be discontinued or continued. A possible side effect is an allergic reaction.
They occur especially when the oil is older, as the oxidation process creates potentially allergenic substances. Particularly with previous skin diseases, redness, itching and a so-called contact eczema can occur. Allergic reactions also occur if tea tree oil has been applied to the skin over a longer period of time.
When applied locally, tea tree oil also dries out the skin severely, so it should not be used on dry skin. It is also not suitable for use on mucous membranes (e.g. do not apply to the nose, genital area or eyes). Essential oils such as tea tree oil should not be used undiluted in children, if at all.
Even a few drops on the forehead or chest can cause cramping of the respiratory muscles and larynx. They should not be used at all in children up to 3 years of age. If breathing difficulties occur after the application of tea tree oil, this is a medical emergency.
In general, Tea Tree Oil should only be used for external treatment and should never be swallowed or eaten. In pets, tea tree oil can even be fatal because they cannot break down the ingredients. This leads to vomiting and neurological failures.
May I use Tea Tree Oil during pregnancy?
For the use of Tea Tree Oil during pregnancy there are no or hardly any clinical studies to recommend its safe use during pregnancy. In general, however, the use of essential oils during pregnancy is not recommended. An application should therefore always be discussed with the midwife or gynecologist and carefully weighed up.
How does tea tree oil work?
Tea tree oil has many positive effects on the health of body and mind. It is most often applied on the skin.It is added to many creams and lotions, shampoos, shower gels and other cosmetic products. Tea tree oil is said to have an antibacterial effect, which means it kills bacteria and cleans the skin.
It is also used for disinfection of inflamed wounds. Furthermore, tea tree oil is fungicidal, which means it kills fungi on the skin. So it is used for example also with foot fungus.
Its anti-inflammatory effect is also used to treat infections of the respiratory tract, throat and pharynx. Finally, tea tree oil, like many other essential oils, is said to have a positive effect on the human psyche. It is said to have a calming and strengthening effect.
Tea tree oil is added to many products in the cosmetics industry, such as hair shampoo. It promotes the health of the scalp and is used for lightly greasy hair, but also for hair that tends to flake. Tea tree oil shampoo also provides relief for itchy scalps.
It makes the hair smoother and fuller. Tea tree oil is also used in shampoos against lice infestation, especially for children, as it is less aggressive against the scalp. It can be used preventively or for the treatment of lice, but is usually not sufficient on its own.
Tea tree oil can also be used on the scalp for other parasites, such as mites. It is even said to have a positive effect on hair loss. Hair loss, however, usually has a hormonal or genetic component, so the desired effect of tea tree oil may not occur.
Tea tree oil also has a strong, penetrating smell and is therefore only contained in small amounts in shampoos. Tea tree oil is a common additive in creams. Due to its antibacterial, disinfecting effect, it is contained in face creams and body lotions, as well as in shampoos.
Creams with tea tree oil can be used for wounds or for skin that becomes greasy quickly. In acne treatment it disinfects inflamed pores. A cream with tea tree oil should not be used on naturally dry skin, as it also dries out.
Furthermore, allergic reactions can occur when using tea tree oil creams. In most cases, tea tree oil is only used in very diluted form.
