Effective against many germs, Tea Tree essential oil is very often the first reflex to have in the event of infections, whether they are skin, oral, dental, ENT, gynecological problems, etc. Broad-spectrum antibacterial, Tea Tree helps get rid of acne spots, oral infections and skin infections, among others. Also very antifungal, it will overcome many types of mycoses. But above all, it is the antiseptic to have at home in case of a wound or small injury! Latin name: Melaleuca alternifolia Maiden. Distilled part: leaves
This article was updated on 29/03/2024Precautions for use
Tea Tree essential oil is flexible and very well tolerated. It can be used by the whole family except pregnant women less than 3 months old. All routes of use are authorized even if the dermal route must be diluted in case of application to large surfaces due to compounds irritating to the skin.
Authorized users
Possible ways of use
Risks of use
Other precautions
Medical advice
People with epilepsy should seek medical advice before any use (epileptogenic risk at high doses).
Skin application
Tea tree essential oil is irritating to the skin, so in most cases it must be diluted in a vegetable oil before any skin application (20% essential oil with 80% vegetable oil).
Store Tea Tree essential oil away from light, as oxidation of paracymene can cause skin irritation.
Ingestion
Orally, do not overdose on Tea Tree essential oil. In case of overdose, it can temporarily cause confusion and loss of motor coordination.
Allergenic components
Tea Tree essential oil contains very few allergenic biochemical components.
- limonene (≤ 2%);
- linalool (≤ 1%).
Note: It is preferable to test the essential oil before using it (two drops in the crook of the elbow for at least 24 hours to check that there is no reaction).
Properties of Tea Tree essential oil
Tea Tree essential oil is highly concentrated in monoterpene carbides and alcohols. These different molecules give it the following main properties:
-
broad spectrum antibacterial ++++ (terpinen-4-ol):
tea Tree essential oil is bactericidal through its ability to penetrate, permeabilize and liquefy the membrane of bacteria, causing the internal components of the bacteria to leak. Additionally, Tea Tree inhibits the growth of a wide range of bacteria. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (often responsible for cystitis) and also Cutibacterium acnes (the cause of acne).
-
broad spectrum antifungal ++++ (terpinene-4-ol, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene):
the aromatic molecules contained in the Tea Tree have the ability to insert themselves into the membrane of certain mushrooms. The membrane being involved in certain vital parameters, the growth and development of the fungus, this therefore causes their elimination and allows Tea Tree to be effective in cases of mycoses such as candidiasis or dermatophytoses for example. The Tea Tree has been the subject of several conclusive studies on mushrooms of the genus Candida (albicans, glabrata) And Malassezia (globosa, furfur) among others.
-
antiviral +++ (terpinene-4-ol, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene):
the main components of Tea Tree have a virucidal action and can prevent contact between viruses and the body's host cells. Studies of enveloped viruses such as Herpes simplex viruses type 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) have found that Tea Tree molecules insert into and destroy the virus shell, causing leaking internal components such as its genetic information.
-
antiprotozoal, antiparasitic +++ (terpinene-4-ol, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene):
tea Tree essential oil penetrates directly into the external cells of the parasite, which results in altering its cell membranes and its intracellular constituents. Tea Tree also limits the development of larvae of intestinal parasites and limits the hatching of eggs of certain parasites.
-
immunomodulating ++ (terpinen-4-ol):
studies have shown that Tea Tree has the ability to modify the production of certain inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-10, prostaglandins E2, immunoglobins A and M, etc.) which are involved in the body's immune response. In addition, it would be capable of increasing the expression of the CD11b receptor, responsible for phagocytosis, that is to say the elimination of pathogenic elements by white blood cells.
-
radioprotector ++ (terpinene-4-ol, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene):
the anti-inflammatory and slightly antioxidant properties of Tea Tree make it an interesting essential oil for preventing radiodermatitis, that is to say skin burns caused by radiotherapy.
But also these secondary properties:
- anti-oxidant
In case of' Acne
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of pure essential oil, to be diluted in a little vegetable oil (preferably Jojoba or Nigella) in case of sensitive skin and repeated use. Apply morning and evening to each pimple, after washing your face. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use.
Use in synergy
Reserved for ages 6+. Repeat twice a day for 10 to 15 days. Place 3 to 4 drops of this mixture on inflamed spots:
- 35 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
- 35 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 50 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
- 120 drops of Jojoba vegetable oil
More details or other users: essential oils against acne.
In case of' Angina, Sore throat
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
Reserved for ages 6+. Orally, 2 drops of Tea Tree mixed with honey, 3 times a day, until improvement (3 weeks maximum).
From 3 years old, and for pregnant women over 3 months old. Favor the cutaneous route, by diluting 1 drop of Tea Tree EO in 9 drops of vegetable oil, massaging on the neck.
Use in synergy
From 3 years old, or 3 months on medical advice. Apply to the neck, focusing on the tonsils, 3 to 4 times a day:
- 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil
- 1 drop of Thyme essential oil in Thujanol
- 1 drop of Ho Wood essential oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of Sweet Almond vegetable oil
Source : Festy, D. (2018). My bible of essential oils: Complete guide to aromatherapy. Leduc.s éditions.
Against one Gynecological infection
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree in 4 drops of vegetable oil, massaged onto the lower abdomen.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and adolescents. Place 2 drops on a neutral support to swallow morning and evening for 20 days:
- 1 mL of Tea Tree essential oil
- 2 mL of Noble Laurel essential oil
- 1 mL of Thyme essential oil in Thujanol
- 1 mL of Rosat Geranium essential oil
Source : Zahalka, J. (2017). Complete Aromatherapy Dictionary. Editions du Dauphin.
Against the Nail fungus
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
For adults and children over 6 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of pure Tea Tree on the mycosis, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use. Dilute in vegetable oil in case of extensive mycosis or prolonged use.
From 3 months, and for pregnant women over 3 months. Dilute Tea Tree essential oil, 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and children over 6 years old. For skin application, apply 2 to 3 drops of the mixture to the nail condition. Repeat the operation twice a day (morning and evening) until your mycosis completely disappears.
- 60 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 40 drops of Noble Laurel essential oil
- 30 drops of Palmarosa essential oil
- 30 drops of True Lavender essential oil
More details or other users: essential oils against nail fungus.
Against one Skin mycosis
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
For adults and children over 6 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of pure Tea Tree on the mycosis, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use. Dilute in vegetable oil in case of extensive mycosis or prolonged use.
From 3 months, and for pregnant women over 3 months. Dilute Tea Tree essential oil, 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and children over 6 years old. Use 2 to 3 drops of the mixture applied topically, 3 times a day for 3 weeks. If, after 3 weeks, the fungus has not yet completely disappeared, take a break for a week and resume the application for 3 weeks and so on.
- 40 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 40 drops of Noble Laurel essential oil
- 20 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
- 20 drops of Palmarosa essential oil
- 100 drops (5 mL) Neem vegetable oil
More details or other users: essential oils against skin fungus.
Against the Foot fungus
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
For adults and children over 6 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of pure Tea Tree on the mycosis, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use. Dilute in vegetable oil in case of extensive mycosis or prolonged use.
From 3 months, and for pregnant women over 3 months. Dilute Tea Tree essential oil, 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil, morning and evening after having thoroughly cleaned the affected area. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and children over 6 years old. Use 3 to 4 drops of the mixture applied locally to the skin 3 times a day for 3 weeks. If, after 3 weeks, the mycosis has not completely disappeared, take a break for a week and resume the application for 3 weeks and so on.
- 20 drops of Cinnamon essential oil
- 20 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
- 40 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 40 drops of Lavender Aspic essential oil
More details or other users: essential oils against foot fungus.
In case of Wound
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
From 3 years. Dermal, after cleaning the wound with soapy water, 1 drop of pure Tea Tree on the wound, 3 times a day, until the wound disappears.
From 3 months and for pregnant women over 3 months. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil on the wound, 3 times a day, until the wound disappears.
Use in synergy
Reserved for children over 3 years old and adults. After cleaning with soapy water, apply 2 to 3 drops of the mixture locally on the wound, 4 times a day for 3 to 4 days.
- 40 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 40 drops of true lavender essential oil
- 20 drops of Cistus essential oil
More details or other users: essential oils to disinfect a wound.
In case of Molluscum Contagiosum
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
For adults and children over 3 years old. Dermal, apply pure Tea Tree essential oil to each pimple, morning and evening. If spreading over a large area, dilute the essential oil to 50% in Nigella vegetable oil.
For children and babies over 3 months old. Dermal, prepare a mixture of 10% Tea Tree essential oil in Calendula oily macerate (1 drop of EO in 4 drops of MH or 1 mL in 9 mL). Apply the mixture to each pimple, morning and evening.
Use in synergy
From 3 years old. Apply the mixture to each pimple using a cotton swab every evening until it disappears. Wash your hands thoroughly after application in case of direct contact. For children under 3 years old or in case of very large application surface, reduce the quantities of each essential oil to 10 drops.
- 20 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 20 drops of Ravintsara essential oil
- 20 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
- 160 drops (8 mL) of Nigella vegetable oil or Calendula oily macerate
More details : essential oils against Molluscum Contagiosum.
In case of Gingivitis
Efficiency: ++++
Simple use
Adults and children over 6 years old. By local route, prepare a mixture of 10% Tea Tree essential oil in Sesame vegetable oil (1 mL or 30 drops of HE, in 9 mL of HV). Apply 3 to 5 drops of the mixture to the gums up to 3 times a day for 5 days.
Pregnant women over 3 months and children over 3 years old. By local route, prepare a mixture of 5% Tea Tree essential oil in Sesame vegetable oil (0.5 mL or 15 drops of HE, in 9.5 mL of HV). Apply 3 to 5 drops of the mixture to the gum up to 3 times a day for up to 5 days.
Use in synergy
For adults and children over 6 years old. Apply a few drops of the mixture to the gums up to 3 times a day for a maximum of 5 days.
- 10 drops of essential oil Tea Tree
- 10 drops of essential oil Pepper mint
- 10 drops of essential oil Lemon
- 5 drops of essential oil Laurel Noble
- 9 mL of vegetable oil Sesame
More details: How to use essential oils in case of gingivitis?
Against one Tooth abscess
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old and for adults. As a mouthwash, 2 to 3 drops of Tea Tree essential oil in a glass of lukewarm water, 4 times a day until improvement.
Tea Tree or Clove?
Tea Tree can be useful in cases of dental abscess, but the essential oil of Clove will be even more interesting for its analgesic effect. Dilute 15 drops in 9.5 mL of edible vegetable oil and apply the mixture with your fingertips or using a cotton swab, on the gum or cheek in case of sensitive gum, up to 5 times per day for a maximum of 5 days.
In case of' Digestive infection
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Orally, place 2 drops of Tea Tree essential oil on a neutral support to swallow 3 times a day for 10 days.
Tea Tree or Chinese Cinnamon?
Tea Tree essential oil may be useful against a digestive infection, but Tea Tree essential oil Chinese cinnamon (or Ceylon bark) remains the reference for adults: 1 drop on a support, combined with 1 drop of lemon essential oil (liver protector). Let it melt in the mouth, 3 times a day until improvement. Do not exceed 5 days of use.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults. To repeat 4 times a day, take the following mixture on a neutral tablet:
- 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil
- 1 drop of Cinnamon essential oil
Source : ZAHALKA, JP (2010). Essential oils. Editions Dauphin.
In case of Radiotherapy burns
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 months, on medical advice. 1 drop of Tea Tree diluted in a cream based on natural products (without paraffin or petroleum jelly) after the session and up to 3 times a day after the session.
Tea Tree or Niaouli?
Tea Tree will be effective against radiodermatitis, but the most famous essential oil is Niaouli. To use in the same way, 1 drop of Niaouli diluted in a cream of natural origin.
In the case of hormonal-dependent cancers, however, favor Tea Tree.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults. Apply the mixture from the start of the session, 1 hour after the session and up to 3 times a day. Respect a period of 4 hours without application before the next session.
- 60 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 60 drops of Niaouli essential oil
- 60 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
- 44 mL of Rosehip vegetable oil
In case of estrogen-dependent cancer, replace Niaouli with Tea Tree.
Source: Couic-Marinier, F., & Touboul, A. (2017). The Living Earth guide to essential oils.
In case of Ringworm, Scabies
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 years old. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree EO diluted in 4 drops of vegetable oil on the affected areas twice a day until the symptoms disappear.
From 3 months and for pregnant women over 3 months. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil on the affected areas twice a day until the symptoms disappear.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and children over 6 years old. Apply 1 to 3 drops to affected areas, morning and evening until improvement.
- 10 drops of Fine Lavender essential oil
- 10 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 20 drops of Clove essential oil
- 20 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 150 drops (7.5 mL) of Calendula oily macerate
Do not apply to anogenital areas.
More details and other users: essential oils against scabies.
Tea Tree or Cade?
The anti-parasitic properties of Tea Tree make it effective against scabies, but the best candidate iscade essential oil. Cutaneously, 1 drop of Cade in 4 drops of vegetable oil to apply to the affected areas (do not apply to the anogenital areas). Repeat the operation morning and evening until the symptoms (redness, itching) completely disappear.
In case of' Herpes
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 years. Through the skin, apply 2 drops of pure Tea Tree essential oil directly to the herpes, every 2 hours, until the herpes disappears.
For reactive skin, dilute 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil in 9 drops of vegetable oil and apply to the herpes, 2 to 3 times a day until the herpes disappears.
Tea Tree or Niaouli?
Tea Tree is undoubtedly a good oil against herpes, but the Niaouli is even more specialized. Cutaneously, 1 drop of Niaouli HE directly on the affected area, every 2 hours, until the herpes disappears.
Use in synergy
From 3 years old. Place 1 drop of the mixture directly on the affected area. Apply every 2 hours, until the herpes disappears.
- 25 drops of Niaouli essential oil
- 25 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 50 drops of True Lavender essential oil
- Complete with 4 mL of Calendula oily macerate
More details and other users: essential oils against herpes.
Against the Shingles
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old and/or on a localized surface. Through the skin, 2 drops of pure Tea Tree directly on the shingles, every 2 hours, until improvement.
From 3 years old and/or over a large area. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree diluted in 4 drops of vegetable oil on shingles, 2 to 3 times a day until improvement.
From 3 months and for pregnant women over 3 months. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil on shingles, 2 to 3 times a day until improvement.
Tea Tree or Niaouli?
Tea Tree is undoubtedly a good oil for treating herpes and shingles, but the Niaouli is even more specialized. Cutaneously, 2 drops of Niaouli EO directly on the affected area, every 2 hours, until improvement.
Use in synergy
Reserved for adults and children over 6 years old. Apply 4 drops of the mixture locally to the pimples and painful area, 8 times a day until the symptoms disappear.
- 15 drops of Niaouli essential oil
- 15 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 15 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 15 drops of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
- 120 drops of oily macerate of St. John’s Wort
More details and other users: essential oils against shingles.
In case of Bronchitis, colds, ENT infection
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 years. Dermal, 1 drop of Tea Tree in 4 drops of vegetable oil to apply to the affected area (neck, thorax, sinuses, behind the ear) 4 times a day for 5 to 7 days.
From 3 months and for pregnant women over 3 months. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil diluted in 9 drops of vegetable oil and apply to the affected area (neck, thorax, sinuses, behind the ear) 4 times a day for 5 to 7 days.
Tea Tree or Eucalyptus Radiata?
Tea Tree is a good anti-infective and is useful in cases of ENT infections, but the essential oil to favor isEucalyptus Radiata. Cutaneously, 1 drop of Eucalyptus Radiata in 4 drops of vegetable oil to apply to the affected area (neck, thorax, sinuses, behind the ear) 4 times a day for 5 to 7 days.
As' Bug spray
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 months. Through the skin, 1 drop of Tea Tree in a small amount of shampoo, leave the shampoo applied for a few minutes before rinsing.
Tea Tree or Lavandin Super?
Tea Tree is a powerful antiparasitic, and will therefore be effective against lice. But the best oil against those pesky hair parasites is Lavandin Great. From 3 years old and through the skin, integrate 1 drop of Lavandin Super essential oil into a small amount of shampoo each time you wash.
Use in synergy
From 3 years old. When the head is infested: pour 5 drops of the mixture twice a day on the scalp. Leave on for 10 minutes then wash hair with a mild shampoo. Repeat the operation for 3 consecutive days. Repeat 8 to 15 days later at the latest (time for the nits to give rise to lice). At the same time, make hair masks of pure coconut oil to leave on overnight before shampooing. After each shampoo, use your lice comb to remove dead lice and nits.
- 30 drops of Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil
- 60 drops of Lavandin Super essential oil
- 60 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 100 drops (5 mL) of coconut vegetable oil
More details and other users: essential oils against lice.
Against Dandruff
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 years. Add 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil to a dab of neutral shampoo then wash the hair with it, massaging the scalp well. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing.
Use in synergy
From 6 years old. Massage the scalp with a small amount of this shampoo. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing:
- 2 drops of Palmarosa essential oil
- 4 drops of Atlas Cedar essential oil
- 4 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 6 drops of True Lavender essential oil
- Complete with neutral shampoo until the bottle is full.
More details : essential oils against dandruff.
Tea Tree or Cade?
The Tea Tree will be effective, but the essential oil of Cade even more. For those over 6 years old, place 2 drops in a dab of shampoo, with each shampoo for a month.
Against one Wart
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 3 months. Dermal, apply a drop of Tea Tree to the wart using a cotton swab every evening until the wart disappears. Take a 1 week break after 3 weeks of use.
Tea Tree or Chinese Cinnamon?
Thanks to its antiviral properties, Tea Tree will be effective against warts, but the essential oil to favor is Chinese cinnamon (or Ceylon bark). From 6 years old, place 1 drop every 2 days on the wart, until it disappears.
Use in synergy
From 6 years old. Apply 1 to 2 drops to the wart with a cotton swab, morning and evening until the wart disappears. In the case of several warts, limit yourself to 4-5 drops maximum per application, or dilute in a vegetable oil.
- 40 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 40 drops of Lemon essential oil
- 10 drops of Mountain Savory essential oil
- 10 drops of Cinnamon essential oil.
More details and other users: essential oils against warts.
In case of Intestinal worms
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Orally, place 2 drops of Tea Tree essential oil on a neutral support to swallow or let it melt in the mouth, 3 times a day for a maximum of 10 days.
Use in synergy
From 6 years old. Place 2 drops on a neutral support to swallow 3 times a day during meals for 10 days. At the same time, massage 8 drops of the mixture onto the lower abdomen, twice a day for 10 days.
- 30 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 30 drops of Thyme essential oil with Linalool
- 40 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 80 drops (4 mL) of Sweet Almond vegetable oil
More details and other users: essential oils against intestinal worms.
Tea Tree or Chinese Cinnamon?
Tea Tree will be effective against intestinal worms, but the essential oil to favor is Cinnamon. From 6 years old, 1 drop of Cinnamon on a support, combined with 1 drop of Lemon essential oil (liver protectant). Let it melt in the mouth, 3 times a day until improvement. Do not exceed 5 days of use.
Against the Perleche (cheilitis)
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Through the skin, dilute 15 drops of Tea Tree in 9.5 mL of Nigella vegetable oil. Apply to the affected area up to 3 times daily depending on improvement. After 20 days or in the event of signs of worsening, medical advice is recommended.
Tea Tree or Rosat Geranium?
Tea Tree essential oil will be very effective against perlèche, but if you have some on hand, that of Geranium Rosat will be even better! For adults, prepare a mixture with 15 drops of essential oil in 9.5 mL of Black Seed oil. Apply to the affected area up to 3 times daily depending on improvement. After 20 days or in the event of signs of worsening, medical advice is recommended.
Use in synergy
Reserved for ages 6+. Apply 1 to 2 drops of this mixture to the affected area up to 3 times daily depending on improvement. After 20 days or in the event of signs of worsening, medical advice is recommended.
- 5 drops of Rosat Geranium essential oil
- 5 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 5 drops of Noble Laurel essential oil
- 9.5 mL of Nigella vegetable oil
More details or other users: essential oils against perleche.
Against the Tartar, dental plaque
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
Adults and adolescents. As a mouthwash, dilute 60 drops of Tea Tree in 8 mL of edible vegetable oil. After brushing your teeth, put 3 to 5 drops of the mixture in a glass of water. Gargle for a few seconds to emulsify the mixture in your mouth before spitting it out.
Tea Tree or Peppermint?
Tea Tree essential oil is effective in limiting tartar and dental plaque, but Tea Tree essential oil Pepper mint is even more so. For adults and adolescents, occasional use, 1 drop of Peppermint EO directly on the toothpaste before brushing.
Use in synergy
Reserved for ages 6+. As a mouthwash, madd 3 to 5 drops of the mixture to a glass of water. After brushing your teeth, gargle for a few seconds to emulsify the mixture in your mouth before spitting it out.
- 20 drops of essential oil Pepper mint
- 10 drops of essential oil Tea Tree
- 30 drops of essential oil Lemon
- 8 mL of vegetable oil Sesame
More details: limit dental plaque and tartar with essential oils
Against the Cystitis, Urinary tract infection
Efficiency: +++
Simple use
From 6 years old. Through the skin, dilute 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil in 4 drops of vegetable oil, and massage onto the lower abdomen 4 to 5 times a day when the first symptoms appear.
From 3 years. Through the skin, dilute 1 drop of Tea Tree essential oil in at least 9 drops of vegetable oil, and massage onto the lower back 4 to 5 times a day when the first symptoms appear.
Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen
Tea Tree or Mountain Savory?
Tea Tree will be effective against urinary infections, but the essential oil to favor is Mountain Savory. From 6 years old, to use cutaneously by diluting 1 drop in 9 drops of vegetable oil, massaging on the lower abdomen, 3 times a day for 7 to 10 days.
Use in synergy
From 6 years old, preferably on medical advice. Place 2 drops on a neutral support to let melt in the mouth after a meal, 2 to 3 times a day for 7 days.
- 10 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 3 drops of Mountain Savory essential oil
- 3 drops of Tropical Basil essential oil
Source: FAUCON M. (2017). Introduction to scientific and medical aromatherapy: treating yourself with essential oils. Blood of the Earth Editions.
Other famous applications of Tea Tree
Tea Tree essential oil is used in many occasions, particularly linked to its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. For the majority ofthe following uses it will be effective, but without necessarily being the best essential oil. We therefore indicate to you the best replacement for Tea Tree for the following different problems.
Tooth pain
Tea Tree can be useful for dental pain, but... the essential oil to favor is Clove. For those over 6 years old, 1 drop on a cotton swab soaked in edible vegetable oil. Apply to the painful area.
Psoriasis
Tea Tree is especially effective in preventing secondary infection in cases of Psoriasis, but the reference oil is Himalayan spikenard. For those over 6 years old, to use cutaneously: 2 drops locally, twice a day. Take a one-week break after 3 weeks of use.
Asthenia, Fatigue
The Tea Tree will not a priori be useful against fatigue,black Spruce essential oil is preferred: 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil applied to the lower back at the kidney level, 3 times a day. Take a one-week break after three weeks of use.
Flu
Tea Tree can be useful against the flu, but the reference oil is Ravintsara. For those over 3 years old, through the skin, 3 drops of Ravintsara massaged into the back and chest, 4 to 5 times a day.
Hemorrhoids
Tea Tree is not the essential oil to use against hemorrhoids, even if it is sometimes recommended. The essential oil to favor is Pistachio mastic : dilute 1 drop of Pistachio Lentisk in 19 drops of vegetable oil and apply to the affected area, after each shower and bowel movement. Take a one-week break after three weeks of use.
Constipation
Tea Tree is not the best known for its action against constipation. The essential oil to favor is Ginger. Place 1 drop on a neutral support to swallow before each meal, for 3 days maximum. From 3 years old, favor the cutaneous route by diluting 2 drops in 8 drops of vegetable oil, massaged on the stomach before meals for 5 to 7 days.
Eczema
Tea Tree can be useful in cases of eczema, but the essential oil to favor remains Geranium Rosat. Dilute 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil and apply to the affected areas, twice a day. Take a one-week break after three weeks of use.
Insect bite, Itchy skin, Bites
Tea Tree can be useful to prevent a bite from becoming infected, but the essential oil of choice is Lavender Aspic to soothe itching: 1 drop directly on the bite, every quarter of an hour until improvement.
Canker sore
Tea Tree can be useful in cases of canker sores, but the essential oil to favor is Laurel Noble. Dilute 60 drops of Laurel Noble in 8 mL of edible vegetable oil. Apply 1 to 2 drops to the canker sore using a cotton swab, 3 times a day.
How to recognize a good Tea Tree essential oil?
Botanical characteristics
- Latin Name: Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) Cheel
- Botanical family: Myrtaceae
- Part used: leaves
- Country of origin: Australia, South Africa.
Physical characteristics
- Density at 20°C: 0.885 to 0.906
- Refractive index at 20°C: 1.475 to 1.482
- Rotary power at 20°C: 5 to 15
- Flash point: 60
Organoleptic characteristics
- Appearance: clear mobile liquid
- Color: colorless to greenish yellow
- Odor: woody, aromatic, terpenic.
Biochemical characteristics
- γ-terpinene: 10 to 28%
- terpinen-4-ol: 30 to 48%
- 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol): ≤ 15%
- paracymene: ≤ 12%
- α-terpinene: 5 to 13%
To check before using Tea Tree essential oil
Favor organic as soon as possible
Tea Tree essential oil, whether from South Africa or Australia, may contain significant levels of pesticides if it is not ORGANIC. Contrary to some rumors, distillation does not eliminate these pesticides. Essential oils have excellent bioavailability (whether orally or cutaneously), the use of non-ORGANIC essential oils presents a significant risk. In addition, growing an ORGANIC Tea Tree will be much more environmentally friendly, through the ban on pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Finally, certification by an ORGANIC label guarantees a minimum of traceability and prevention of manufacturer fraud. For all these reasons, we recommend that you preferably purchase a organic Tea Tree essential oil, especially since the price difference is often minimal.
Check chemotype
The concept of chemotype in aromatherapy is essential to guarantee the quality of an essential oil. An essential oil can be called chemotyped if its label specifically mentions: its precise botanical definition (including genus, species and subspecies or variety), the main molecules that it contains and the precise geographical origin of the plant from which the essential oil comes. You will therefore need to check that the chemotype is correctly indicated, but also that it is the correct chemotype. For the Tea Tree, it's quite simple:
- Precise Latin name: Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) Cheel
- Main molecules: terpinèn-4-ol, γ-terpinene, eucalyptol (1,8-cineole), α-terpinene and paracymene
- Origin: South Africa or Australia
For reasons of effectiveness and safety, the choice of a good chemotype is often crucial in aromatherapy, as the biochemical compositions of oils vary greatly from one chemotype to another. Tea Tree, however, presents a fairly low risk from this point of view, the majority of products available in France respecting this chemotype.
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Understanding all the analyzes carried out by a manufacturer to ensure the good quality of an essential oil is not within everyone's reach. However, you can ensure that these analyzes exist, for each batch, and that they are public. This is the best guarantee of quality that a brand can give to its customers. You will be able to find, at least, for each essential oil: its chromatographic analysis, its organoleptic analysis and some physical analyzes (density, rotational power, refractive index). Regarding Tea Tree, the results you can expect are listed above.
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Bibliography
Publication: Hammer, K. (2015). Treatment of acne with tea tree oil (melaleuca) products: A review of efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action. International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 45(2), 106–110. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2014.10.011
Publication: Pazyar, N., Yaghoobi, R., Bagherani, N., & Kazerouni, A. (2012). A review of applications of tea tree oil in dermatology. International Journal of Dermatology, 52(7), 784–790. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2012.05654.x
Publication: Carson, CF, Hammer, KA, & Riley, TV (2006). Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 19(1), 50–62. https://doi.org/10.1128/cmr.19.1.50-62.2006
Publication: Li, W., Li, H., Shi, Q., Sun, T., Xie, X., Song, B., & Huang, X. (2016). The dynamics and mechanism of the antimicrobial activity of tea tree oil against bacteria and fungi. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 100(20), 8865–8875. https://doi.org/10.10
Publication: Rieder, B.O. (2017). Consumer exposure to certain ingredients of cosmetic products: The case for tea tree oil. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 108, 326–338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2017.08.012
Publication: Boehm, K., Büssing, A., & Ostermann, T. (2012). Aromatherapy as an adjuvant treatment in cancer care--a descriptive systematic review. African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines: AJTCAM, 9(4), 503-18.
Publication: Cox, SD, Mann, CM, Markham, JL, Bell, HC, Gustafson, JE, Warmington, JR, & Wyllie, SG (2001). The mode of antimicrobial action of the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree oil). Journal of Applied Microbiology, 88(1), 170–
Publication: Carson, C.F., & Riley, TV (2001). Safety, efficacy and provenance of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil. Contact Dermatitis, 45(2), 65–67. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0536.2001.045002065.x
Work : Franchomme, P., Jollois, R., & Pénoël, D. (1990). Aromatherapy exactly: encyclopedia of the therapeutic use of essential oils: foundations, demonstration, illustration and applications of a natural medical science. France: R. Jollo
Work : de la Charie, T. (2019). Treat yourself with essential oils. Why and how does it work? Editions du Rocher.
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Work : Millet, F. (2015). The great guide to essential oils. Marabout.
Work : Zahalka, J. (2017). Complete Aromatherapy Dictionary. Editions du Dauphin.
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About these tips
This aromatherapy article was written by Théophane de la Charie, author of the book “Treat yourself with essential oils”, accompanied by a multidisciplinary team made up of pharmacists, biochemists and agronomists.
La Compagnie des Sens and its teams do not encourage self-medication. The information and advice provided comes from a reference bibliographic database (books, scientific publications, etc.). They are given for information purposes, or to suggest avenues for reflection: they should in no case replace a diagnosis, consultation or medical follow-up, and cannot engage the liability of the Compagnie des Sens.