Top Tea Tree Oil Uses and Benefits

Tea tree essential oil, also known as melaleuca, is one of the most well-known essential oils. In history, it was widely used as an antiseptic agent. Today, tea tree oil has multiple scientifically backed benefits for supporting the body. The research on its incredible benefits continue to grow and so far, this year there have been over 60 published studies on tea tree essential oil.

Tea tree essential oil is derived from the native Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. The name Melaleuca is derived from Ancient Greek with melas meaning “dark” or “black” and leukos meaning “white”. This was because one of the first specimens described it as having “fire-blackened white bark.” (1) Melaleuca is a genus of nearly 300 plant species almost all native to Australia. The tea tree plant is a small tree or shrub with needle-like leaves and yellow or purple flowers.

In history, it has been said that on his first voyage to Australia, Captain Cook made a sharp-tasting tea from tea tree leaves and later used them to purify the water. Australian soldiers and sailors used the essential oil as an all-purpose healing agent during World War II. (2) Today it is used in multiple products to help wound healing, diaper rash, acne, insect bites, dandruff, cleaning, mold, foot fungus, cold sores, and other mouth infections, soaps and deodorants.

Tea tree essential oil is steam or water distilled from the leaves and twigs of the plant.

Aroma

The aroma of tea tree essential oil is warm, fresh and slightly similar to eucalyptus. It can be clear to pale yellow in color.

Principal Constituents

Tea tree essential oil contains a number of compounds however its core components are terpinen-4-ol and alpha-terpineol. Terpinen-4-ol makes up over 39% of its key constituents. (3). Other principal constituents include cineol, pinene, terpinenes, cymene sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpene alcohols.

Uses

Research has shown that tea tree essential oil has many health benefits. Tea tree oil is unusual in that it is active against all three varieties of infectious organisms: bacteria, fungi and viruses (4, 5). In addition, it may serve as powerful immuno-stimulant as terpinen-4-ol may increase activity of white blood cells which are important for fighting germs. (6)

Top Benefits of Tea Tree Essential Oil

Fights Acne

Tea tree oil exhibits strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which may be helpful in dermatology. (7) Multiple studies have shown the effectiveness of tea tree oil in supporting acne vulgaris and seborrheic dermatitis as well as accelerating wound healing.

In 2017, a pilot study evaluated the efficacy of tea tree oil gel in treatment of mild to moderate facial acne. The study compared tea tree gel and face wash without tea tree. Participants were assessed at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Those using tea tree had significantly fewer facial acne lesions compared to those using the face wash. No serious adverse events occurred, and minor effects were limited to peeling, drying, and scaling, all of which resolved without intervention. (8)

In a 2007 randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study of 60 participants it was found that 5% topical tea tree oil is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris. (9)

In another single-blind randomized trial of 124 participants, tea tree oil was found to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide in treating acne. (10) In addition, fewer side effects were experienced by patients treated with tea tree oil.

Soothes Allergies

Tea tree may be supportive in soothing allergy related symptoms. It soothes irritated skin and has been shown to reduce histamine-induced skin inflammation. (11) It is also a helpful decongestant and expectorant.

In vitro work over the last decade has demonstrated that tea tree oil affects a range of immune responses, both in vitro and in vivo. (12)

Insecticidal properties

Tea tree oil is commonly found in natural products to repel mosquitos and other insects. In one study, it was found tea tree oil (as well as other essential oils such as rosemary, eucalyptus, lavender and citronella) were superior to DEET (chemical name N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) which is the most common active ingredient in many repellent products. (13)

Multiple other studies have shown the effectiveness of using essential oils to help deter flies and insects from livestock. One study found that cows treated with 5% concentration of tea tree oil had 61% fewer flies than cows not treated with tea tree oil. (14)

Cleaning properties

Tea tree essential oil may be beneficial when added to cleaning products due to its antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil can be used in household cleaner recipes, as well as soaps, laundry detergents, and hand sanitizers.

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Tea Tree Shower Spray

Yield: 4 ounces

Author: Holly Brandenberger

This is a great all-purpose shower cleaning spray! The alcohol content disinfects, while tea tree, rosemary and lemon essential oil contribute their own cleansing powers to continue to discourage germs, fungi, and mold.

Ingredients

Tea Tree Shower Spray

• 3 oz (90 ml) water
• 1 oz (30 ml) 190 proof alcohol (such as Everclear)
• 30 drops Tea tree essential oil
• 15 drops Lemon essential oil
• 15 drops Rosemary essential oil

Instructions

1. Pour the alcohol into the 4 oz glass spray bottle.
2. Add the essential oils.
3. Allow this blend to sit for about an hour. This will give the alcohol time to fully disperse the essential oils before you add the water.
4. Add the water.
5. Close the bottle and shake well.
6. Spray in bathroom and shower stall! Use after every shower to discourage germs and mold from accumulating.

Natural deodorant

Sweat alone does not smell, however sweat in conjunction with bacteria from the skin do produce an odor. Due to tea tree’s ability to fight bacteria it is a common addition in many natural deodorants.

May help treat minor cuts and scrapes as well as promote wound healing

Tea tree may be helpful in in treating and disinfecting minor cuts due to it antibacterial properties. (15) One recent study in July 2022, found that tea tree oil may improve the antimicrobial influence of certain antibacterial drugs such as neomycin by serving as an effective vehicle for topical delivery. (16)

Here are two of my favorite recipes for promoting skin healing:

• Owie Blend Spray: Mix together 1 part frankincense hydrosol, 1 part tea tree hydrosol, 2 parts lavender hydrosol in spray bottle. Store in refrigerator and spray on minor cuts and scrapes to promote skin healing.

• Get Better Bumps and Bruises: Mix 3 drops copaiba, 2 drops helichrysum, 2 drops tea tree oil and 2 drops lavender with carrier oil in 10ml roller. (Recipe is 3% dilution)

May help with nail fungus and athlete’s foot

Tea tree oil has been shown to help with nail fungus and athlete’s foot either alone or in combination with other remedies. In a double-blind randomized controlled trial of 117 patients with onychomycosis (nail fungus) it was found that tea tree oil was comparative to a common antifungal medication (clotrimazole) in results. After 6 months of treatment it found that 60% of both groups reported partial or full resolution of the fungus. (17)

In a placebo-controlled study of 158 participants, it was found that 72% had significant clinical improvement in athlete’s foot with tea tree oil compared to 39% in the placebo group. (18)

My help fight germs that cause tooth decay and bad breath

Since tea tree has the ability to kill off bad bacteria as well as soothe inflamed skin it has become a popular choice in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes. In a systemic review in July 2022, tea tree oil was compared to chlorohexidine in the treatment of periodontal disease. Tea tree oil was found to be superior to chlorohexidine in reducing signs of gingival inflammation; however, chlorohexidine was superior to tea tree oil in inhibiting plaque formation, probably due to its increased substantivity. The authors noted that tea tree essential oil may be used as an alternative to chlorohexidine for reduction of gingival inflammation in conjunction with efficient plaque control measures. (19)

Boost hair health and control dandruff

Many natural shampoos and hair care products contain tea tree oil as it has been proven to be very beneficial for supporting healthy hair and scalp. It may help soothe a dry, flaking scalp and also remove dandruff due to its antifungal properties.

In a randomized, single-blind trial of 126 participants, 5% tea tree oil in shampoo was evaluated to improve symptoms associated with dandruff over 4 weeks of use. At the end of the study, it was found that tea tree shampoo group reported 41% improvement in reduction of symptoms compared to only 11% of the placebo group. There were no adverse effects. (20)

In addition, tea tree oil may be helpful in treating head lice either alone or in conjunction with other remedies. (21)

Safety: Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil is non-toxic, non-mutagenic, and non-carcinogenic. It is not considered hazardous in pregnancy and does not alter the maternal reproductive outcome. (22) However, it can cause skin irritation and sensitization if oxidized therefore should be stored in dark, airtight containers away from heat and direct sunlight. It is not recommended to use undiluted tea tree essential oil on the skin due to the risk of sensitization. An effective concentration of tea tree oil is between 5-15%. Tea tree oil should not be ingested and if using for oral use such as in toothpaste or mouthwash, it should be spit out and not swallowed. Store out of reach of children.

In addition, tea tree oil may be unsafe for use on pets in certain concentrations. It is always recommended to speak to a veterinarian when using essential oils on pets.

Note: In the past decade there has been some concern over tea tree oil potentially causing gynecomastia in children and potentially having an impact on the endocrine system. The past research studies on this have been flawed and disputed. The first epidemiological study was published in June 2022 to determine if there is a risk for children that use essential oils and endocrine disruption, in particular gynecomastia. This study was done with 556 children and showed that there was no additional risk of prepubertal gynecomastia and other endocrine disorders for children who were regularly exposed to lavender or tea tree oils. (23)

Blends well with: lavandin, lavender, rosemary, citrus oils, clary sage, pine, geranium, marjoram, cypress and eucalyptus.

Applications and Methods of Use:

• Add a few drops in daily shampoo to promote healthy hair and treat dandruff

• Use in all-purpose cleaner to discourage germs, fungi and mold

• Make a “owie blend spray” (recipe above) or apply with carrier oil to promote skin healing

• Make an aromatherapy inhaler using Eucalyptus, Cypress, Tea Tree and Lemon to soothe allergies.

• Add a few drops in daily face wash or moisturizer to help calm acne

Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user's own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

References:

1. Holliday, Ivan (2004). Melaleucas: a field and garden guide (2nd ed.). Frenchs Forest, N.S.W.: Reed New Holland Publishers. pp.6-9

2. Brooks, Lisa. (2017). The Herbal Apothecary. Louis Weber Publications International. p. 221

3. Tisserand, Robert (2014) Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Edition. Churchill Livingstone Elsevier

4. Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 Jan;19(1):50-62.

5. Li WR, Li HL, Shi QS, Sun TL, Xie XB, Song B, Huang XM. The dynamics and mechanism of the antimicrobial activity of tea tree oil against bacteria and fungi. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2016 Oct;100(20):8865-75.

6. Budhiraja SS, Cullum ME, Sioutis SS, Evangelista L, Habanova ST. Biological activity of Melaleuca alternifola (Tea Tree) oil component, terpinen-4-ol, in human myelocytic cell line HL-60. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1999 Sep;22(7):447-53.

7. Pazyar N, Yaghoobi R, Bagherani N, Kazerouni A. A review of applications of tea tree oil in dermatology. Int J Dermatol. 2013 Jul;52(7):784-90.

8. Malhi HK, Tu J, Riley TV, Kumarasinghe SP, Hammer KA. Tea tree oil gel for mild to moderate acne; a 12 week uncontrolled, open-label phase II pilot study. Australas J Dermatol. 2017 Aug;58(3):205-210.

9. Enshaieh S, Jooya A, Siadat AH, Iraji F. The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2007 Jan-Feb;73(1):22-5.

10. Bassett IB, Pannowitz DL, Barnetson RS. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne. Med J Aust. 1990 Oct 15;153(8):455-8.

11. Wallengren J. Tea tree oil attenuates experimental contact dermatitis. Arch Dermatol Res. 2011 Jul;303(5):333-8.

12. Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 Jan;19(1):50-62.

13. Adams TF, Wongchai C, Chaidee A, Pfeiffer W. "Singing in the Tube"--audiovisual assay of plant oil repellent activity against mosquitoes (Culex pipiens). Parasitol Res. 2016 Jan;115(1):225-39.

14. Klauck V, Pazinato R, Stefani LM, Santos RC, Vaucher RA, Baldissera MD, Raffin R, Boligon A, Athayde M, Baretta D, Machado G, DA Silva AS. Insecticidal and repellent effects of tea tree and andiroba oils on flies associated with livestock. Med Vet Entomol. 2014 Aug;28 Suppl 1:33-9.

15. Carson CF, Hammer KA, Riley TV. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 Jan;19(1):50-62.

16. Elsewedy HS, Shehata TM, Soliman WE. Tea Tree Oil Nanoemulsion-Based Hydrogel Vehicle for Enhancing Topical Delivery of Neomycin. Life (Basel). 2022 Jul 7;12(7):1011.

17. Buck DS, Nidorf DM, Addino JG. Comparison of two topical preparations for the treatment of onychomycosis: Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil and clotrimazole. J Fam Pract. 1994 Jun;38(6).

18. Satchell AC, Saurajen A, Bell C, Barnetson RS. Treatment of interdigital tinea pedis with 25% and 50% tea tree oil solution: a randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded study. Australas J Dermatol. 2002 Aug;43(3):175-8.

19. Singh N, Puzhankara L, Kedlaya MN, Ramanarayanan V. Effectiveness of tea tree oil versus chlorhexidine in the treatment of periodontal diseases: a systematic review. Evid Based Dent. 2022 Jul 12.

20. Satchell AC, Saurajen A, Bell C, Barnetson RS. Treatment of dandruff with 5% tea tree oil shampoo. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Dec;47(6):852-5.

21. Di Campli E, Di Bartolomeo S, Delli Pizzi P, Di Giulio M, Grande R, Nostro A, Cellini L. Activity of tea tree oil and nerolidol alone or in combination against Pediculus capitis (head lice) and its eggs. Parasitol Res. 2012 Nov;111(5):1985-92. doi: 10.1007/s00436-012-3045-0. Epub 2012 Jul 31.

22. Tisserand, Robert (2014) Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Edition. Churchill Livingstone Elsevier

23. Hawkins J, Hires C, Dunne E, Keenan L. Prevalence of endocrine disorders among children exposed to Lavender Essential Oil and Tea Tree Essential Oils. Int J Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2022 Jun;9(2):117-124.

24. Lawless, Julia. (2014). The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils. London: Haper Thorsons.