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Tree tea oil: Medical Uses, How to use & side effects

Team AckoJun 21, 2023

Tea Tree Oil (TTO) is related to the Australian tea tree. TTO has a wide range of applications due to its several therapeutic actions, including antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antiprotozoal and anti-inflammatory properties. Read ahead to know more about this oil including its uses, side effects, and other details

Contents

What are the medicinal uses of Tea Tree Oil?
How to use Tea Tree Oil
What are the side effects of Tea Tree Oil?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the medicinal uses of Tea Tree Oil?

Tea Tree Oil can be used for the following medicinal purposes.

Acne: Tea Tree Oil may contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that can help with acne management. Many topical treatments containing this oil have been used to combat acne-causing germs. It may help to treat acne lesions by reducing open and closed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Its anti acne efficacy has been demonstrated in several clinical investigations, indicating that topical use (5%) may be beneficial in treating mild to moderate acne.
Dandruff: In a clinical research, shampoo containing 5% TTO was proven to be beneficial against dandruff (human trial). As a result, it may be beneficial in the treatment of dandruff. However, this study is insufficient; consequently, more research is required.
Skin conditions: Seborrheic dermatitis is a superficial fungal infection that occurs in places with a high concentration of sebaceous glands. Tea Tree Oil has antifungal activity and is regarded as useful in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. However, you should never self-medicate with TTO. For dermatitis-related issues, it is best to visit a dermatologist and act accordingly.
Viral infections: This oil may be antiviral against herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2. Studies have revealed that TTO is useful in treating recurrent herpes labialis infection (a skin rash on the lips caused by the herpes virus). It may also be beneficial in treating hand warts, a common viral infection.
Combined with lavender oil, it has been demonstrated to be useful in treating live head lice.
Tea Tree Oil has the potential to be turned into an effective treatment for vaginal candidiasis.
A DIY wound treatment made with TTO and lavender essential oil is ideal.
It has been demonstrated to prevent gum bleeding and tooth decay.
It contains antibacterial capabilities that kill the bacteria that creates body odour on your skin. Tea Tree Oildeodorantmay be manufactured at home by combining it with coconut oil and baking soda. You may also add TTO and lemon essential oil to your mixture.
Most people may safely use TTO. However, the oil is poisonous and should never be consumed. When consumers use the oil for the first time, it may produce irritation and rashes. If this occurs, discontinue use of the oil immediately and consult a doctor. It can occasionally cause skin dryness, itching, stinging, burning, and redness in acne patients.
Terpenoids, which are contained in Tea Tree Oil, have been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
According to research, TTO possesses antibacterial properties that might be effective for hand sanitization. According to one study, a 10% TTO formulation proved effective as a hand sanitizer.

How to use Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil can be used topically as an ointment. It is used in a variety of goods and cosmetics, including shampoos, skin creams, nail creams, and massage oils.

Oral use of TTO can result in significant health consequences such as breathing difficulties, ataxia (lack of muscular coordination), disorientation, and coma.

To avoid hazardous responses in the body, keep tea trees away from young children and the elderly. Your physician will prescribe the appropriate form and dose for you. However, we recommend that you should not replace or modify your present prescriptions with any ayurvedic or herbal tea tree remedies.

What are the side effects of Tea Tree Oil?

Most people may safely use TTO. However, the oil is poisonous and should never be consumed. When consumers use the oil for the first time, it may produce irritation and rashes. If this occurs, discontinue use of the oil immediately and consult a doctor. It can occasionally cause skin dryness, itching, stinging, burning, and redness in acne patients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Tea Tree Oil.

Does Tea Tree Oil help with acne?

Yes, TTO has antibacterial characteristics that can help destroy the germs that cause acne. It is also an anti-inflammatory, which can help minimise acne-related skin redness.

Can I use Tea Tree Oil on my face?

Yes, however it should be diluted in a carrier oil first. This will assist to avoid the irritation that TTO can cause when applied to sensitive face skin. Before applying it on your face, test it on a less visible region, such as the inside of your elbow.

What are the disadvantages of Tea Tree Oil?

TTO can irritate the skin, especially if administered undiluted. Within the first two or three weeks of taking it, keep an eye out for responses such as redness or irritation.

Is it safe to consume Tea Tree Oil?

TTO cannot be consumed. Tea Tree Oil is deadly if ingested, and the National Capital Poison Center advises against placing it near or around your mouth.

What is the purpose of Tea Tree Oil?

TTO is used topically on the skin to treat skin disorders such as acne due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects.

References

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. Please consult a doctor before making any health-related decisions.