
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Melaleuca alternifolia (from leaves)
HISTORY: Australia used for medicinal purposes thousands of years ago. Reportedly used for scurvy in the 1800's. Later used in the military as an antiseptic 1930's and 1940's WII as an antiseptic
PROPERTIES: Antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Sore throat, ear infection, respiratory infection (added to bath or infusion), respiratory congestion/bronchitis, cough, asthma, sinusitis
Gastrointestinal: Mouth lesions, thrush, halitosis (bad breath), hemorrhoids, gingivitis
Genitourinary: Bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis
Skin: Dandruff, acne, herpes, insect bites, scabies, fungal infections like ringworm, onychomycosis (nail fungus), athlete's foot (fungus), bacterial skin infections and swelling, boils, herpes labialis, may reduce hair growth in women, MRSA (esp. nasal ointment and skin lesions), inflammatory rash and certain viral rashes, encourages new healing, warts, bites, burns, seborrhea.
Mental Health: Anxiety, stress, insomnia,
Infectious Disease: Trichomoniasis, HSV I suppression, herpes labialis
Other: Lice, ocular mites (external use of shampoo)
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Contact dermatitis/skin irritation, itching, stinging, inflammation, burning of skin
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Warning - do not take undiluted essential oil orally. Taken orally, it can cause rash, confusion, physical instability, coma, and death when ingested. If oil is used in the ear, it can cause damage to the eardrum. No known interactions with medications.
FORMS: Oils, lotion, cream, body wash, topical oral gels, mouthwashes, shampoos
DOSAGES: As directed
Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on label.
Usually, a 5-50% concentration of liquid forms
Acne: Apply 5% gel to the affected area 2 times daily (people 15 years and up)
Blepharitis: Apply to the outer lid with a swab 2 times daily
Oral candidiasis: Swish and spit 15 ml 4 times daily
Dandruff: Apply 5% topical shampoo daily
Note: Not to be taken orally
Recommendations:
NOW Essential Oils - 100 Percent Pure Tea Tree (order here on Amazon)
365 [Whole Foods Market] Tea Tree [Whole Foods Market] (available at many Whole Foods Markets)
I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
