Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil that is made from tea tree leaves, which are native to the swampy southeast coast of Australia.
Tea tree oil has both antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, allowing it to aid in the treatment of common skin and scalp conditions like acne, dandruff, and inflammation. Tea tree oil can often be found as an ingredient in self-care products that target the skin and hair.
Due to its antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil is also often included in topical ointments that treat common fungal and bacterial infections.31 Some studies have also indicated tea tree oil in the treatment of respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma, although this use is less common.
Along with having many benefits, tea tree oil also has several ways of application, as well as a few risks and side effects to know.
Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
With both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory abilities, tea tree oil has a variety of potential benefits.
Slows Bacteria Growth
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can slow or stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria or mold.4
This benefit is largely due to a compound in tea tree oil called terpinen-4-ol, which is highly abundant in the oil. Terpinen-4-ol has been shown to be effective in fighting against several pathogens, or disease-causing bacteria.
May Help Treat Minor Wounds
When applied topically, research suggests that tea tree oil’s ability to kill bacteria on the skin may help speed wound healing for minor cuts and scrapes. For the same reason, tea tree oil might also aid in the prevention of skin cancer-forming cells or infection as the wound heals.12
May Help Treat Dandruff
Some research has shown tea tree oil’s ability to reduce oil production, one of the main causes of seborrheic dermatitis (a form of dandruff).13
A review of studies suggested tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties can prevent the growth of microorganisms, another major contributor to dandruff.
However, more research is needed to make a direct connection between tea tree oil and dandruff reduction.14
May Help Treat Fungal Infections on the Feet and Nails
Tea tree oil may have antifungal properties. Several studies have shown tea tree oil to be effective in treating fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and nail fungus. In some cases, the oil may be a natural alternative to prescription topical ointments for these infections.
Jiangxi Zhongxiang Biological Co., Ltd.
Kelly Xiong
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Post time: Dec-21-2024