Tea Tree

DEFINITION

Tea tree oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia.

MEDICAL USE

-Acne. Products containing Tea tree oil for the treatment of acne may help to reduce the number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions.
-Athlete's foot (Tinea pedis) – the anti-fungal properties of Tea tree oil may help in the management of this condition.
-Fungal nail infectio ns (o nychomyco sis) – may also respond to treatment with Tea tree oil, however, more clinical research is required in this area.
-Dandruff. Early research reports that the use of a 5 percent tea tree oil solution in shampoo on mild-to-moderate dandruff may be effective and well tolerated.
-Dental plaque/gingivitis. Some dental hygiene products such as mouthwash and toothpaste contain Tea-tree oil. Tea tree oil can be toxic when taken by mouth and therefore should not be swallowed.
-Head lice. There are a number of natural treatments containing Tea tree that may help to manage Head lice. Tea tree oil is an essential oil with properties that may help to destroy Head lice and their eggs. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

NOTES

-Tea Tree Oil should not be consumed
-Do not apply any type of essential oil directly to the skin without diluting it first in a suitable carrier oil (such as almond oil) or moisturiser. Applying Tea tree oil directly to the skin can cause the skin to become dry, blister or form a rash.