Herbal Therapy: Using Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca Alternifolia plant that can be used to treat a variety of skin disorders. It has been used successfully to treat a number of infection and irritation based skin disorders.

The “Tea Tree” was discovered when explorer James Cook traveled from Great Britain to Australia in the late 1700’s. The aborigines introduced the explorers to the wonders of the plant which they used by crushing the leaves and applying directly to a cut. It was named the “Tea Tree” by Cook’s group after they made a tea out of the leaves. Shortly thereafter, its use spread to Europe and was widely used.

Its use as an antifungal is documented during World War II but in the 1940’s it fell into disuse due to the development of penicillin and subsequent antibiotics. It’s effectiveness was proven in a number of clinical trials dating back to the 1920’s investigating such topics as athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, acne and dandruff.

In the 1970’s, tea tree oil use once again became popular and has since been on the rise due to interest in natural medicines and increasing bacterial and fungal resistance to traditional medicines. Oil from the plant is extracted using steam distillation methods. The compound terpinen-4-ol is thought to be responsible for most of its activity; however the extract contains a number of terpinoids all of which demonstrate some activity.

Tea tree oil has been successfully used to treat a number of skin infections and disorders such as:

• Acne – apply directly to affected area or mix a few drops with normal facial cleanser and use as normal
• Cuts, burns, scratches, insect bites, skin infections, boils – apply directly to affected area
• Seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff – apply directly to scalp with cotton ball or mix with shampoo
• Athlete’s foot – apply directly to affected area with cotton ball
• Thrush, periodontal disease – mix several drops with mouthwash or warm water, rinse and spit
• Eczema, psoriasis – mix a few drops with non-irritating lotion and apply to affected area
• Lice – works best as a preventative by mixing a few drops with regular shampoo and/or conditioner
• Yeast infection, vaginitis – apply a few drops to the tip of a tampon and insert vaginally

Tea tree oil is generally considered safe for topical use but should not be taken internally as it can be toxic if ingested. Minor skin irritation may occur if used in a sensitive area and occasionally specific skin allergies are noted. If you experience a worsening of any condition, additional inflammation or symptoms of allergic reaction use should be discontinued.

Tea tree oil is widely available at any health food store and at many drugstores, grocery stores and large discount stores such as Wal-Mart or Target. In addition, many body care products made with tea tree oil such as creams, lotions and shampoos are now commercially available. Though, in my experience you will always get greater benefit by purchasing tea tree oil and adding a few drops to the shampoo, lotion or cream just prior to use yourself.