Tea tree oil has antiseptic and antifungal properties and is commonly used to treat skin infections, respiratory ailments, and dental issues. It should not be used internally and can cause serious side effects.
The uses of tea tree oil are generally antiseptic and antifungal. Tea tree oil is believed to have a long history of medicinal use among the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. The oil is generally obtained from the leaves of the tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia, and has been used externally to treat viral, fungal and bacterial infections including athlete’s foot, herpes, acne, dandruff and warts. Tea tree oil is also believed to boost the immune system and improve respiratory ailments. It can cause serious side effects when used internally and is not considered suitable for pregnant women or children.
Tea tree leaves generally contain plant chemicals known as terpenoids. Researchers believe that the terpenoids in tea tree leaves give the oil its medicinal properties. The oil is typically extracted by first steaming and then crushing the fresh leaves.
One of the main uses of tea tree oil can be as a first aid remedy for burns, wounds and minor skin irritations. Tea tree oil can be used to treat insect stings and bites, sunburn, boils, vaginitis, and blisters. Another of the proven uses for tea tree oil is its topical application for treating fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or candidiasis.
Tea tree oil mouthwash and toothpastes are believed to be effective in fighting tooth decay and periodontal disease. Tea tree oil can be potentially toxic if ingested, so these products are generally only considered safe if the user always takes care to spit them out. They are generally not considered appropriate for young children.
As an ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and ointments, tea tree oil can treat dandruff, oily skin, psoriasis, and eczema. Tea tree oil is generally considered to be an effective remedy for most minor skin rashes. Shampoos containing at least a five percent concentration of tea tree oil can help get rid of lice infestations.
Tea tree oil uses also include inhaling its vapors to soothe respiratory ailments. A few drops of the oil can be added to boiling water and the steam inhaled, every day for several days to relieve minor ailments such as sore throat, cough and runny nose. Tea tree oil can also help relieve symptoms of more serious respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma and tuberculosis. Regular use of tea tree oil can help boost immunity and help fight or prevent common viral illnesses like the flu, chickenpox, shingles, and measles.
Tea tree oil should generally not be used internally, as it can fatally suppress the central nervous system. Symptoms of tea tree oil overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced immunity, drowsiness, mental confusion, incoordination, and coma.
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