• Basic Info

Tradition

WARNING: DISCLAIMER: The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older)

Tea tree oil has been used in gels, creams shampoo, body washes and in tinctures or extracts. Most doses used in studies are applied topically (on the skin). These doses have not necessarily been proven effective or safe. While 100% tea tree oil is sometimes used (ex. for fungal nail infections), it is often diluted with inactive ingredients. Typically, preparations contain about 4-5% tea tree oil and are used daily for four weeks to six months depending on condition. Due to reports of severe side effects after tea tree oil ingestion, it is strongly recommended that tea tree oil not be taken by mouth. Although tea tree oil solution has been used as a mouthwash, it should not be swallowed.

Tea tree oil 5% gel has been applied to acne-prone areas of the skin daily. For athlete's foot (tinea pedis), 10% tea tree oil cream, applied twice daily to the feet after they have been thoroughly washed and dried or 25-50% tea tree oil solution applied twice daily to the affected area for 4 weeks has been studied. For genital herpes, a 6% tea tree oil gel has been used.

Children (younger than 18 years)

There is insufficient research to recommend the safe use of tea tree oil in children.

Safety

DISCLAIMER: Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

Allergies

There are multiple reports of allergy to tea tree oil when taken by mouth or used on the skin. Skin reactions range from mild contact dermatitis to severe blistering rashes. People with a history of allergy to tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), to any of its components, or to plants that are members of the myrtle (Myrtaceae) family, balsam of Peru or benzoin, should not use tea tree oil. People with a history of allergy to tincture of benzoin or colophony (rosin) should not use tea tree oil products because cross-reactions have been reported.

Use cautiously if allergic to eucalyptol as many tea tree preparations contain eucalyptol.

Side Effects and Warnings

Tea tree oil taken by mouth is associated with potentially severe reactions, even when used in small quantities. Several reports describe people using tea tree oil by mouth who developed severe rash, reduced immune system function, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, drowsiness, inflammation of the corners of the mouth, slow or uneven walking, confusion, or coma. There have also been reports of nausea, unpleasant taste, burning sensation, and bad breath associated with tea tree oil use. Many tea tree preparations contain large volumes of alcohol.

When used on the skin, tea tree oil may cause allergic rash, redness, blistering, and itching. Use of tea tree oil inside of the mouth or eyes can cause irritation. One report describes a person with long-standing eczema (atopic dermatitis) who developed a severe flare after applying 100% tea tree oil mixed in honey to the skin. Animal research suggests that tea tree oil used on the skin in large quantities can cause serious reactions such as difficulty walking, weakness, muscle tremor, slowing of brain function, and poor coordination. When applied in the ears of animals, 100% tea tree oil has caused reduced hearing, although a 2% solution has not led to lasting changes in hearing. The effect of tea tree oil on hearing when used in the ears of humans is not known.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Not enough scientific information is available to recommend tea tree oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Animal studies suggest caution in the use of tea tree oil during childbirth because tea tree oil has been reported to decrease the force of spontaneous contractions, which theoretically could put the baby and mother at risk. Women who are breastfeeding should not apply tea tree oil to the breast or nipple since it may be absorbed by the infant.