Tea Tree Oil
(Melaleuca
alternifolia)
General Description:
Small tree that in native to northeast coastal region of New South Wales,
Australia. Fruits grow in clusters and white flowers bloom in
summer.
Part Used:
Leaves
Uses:
burns
sores
lice
ring worm
acne skin pathogens (Staph. aureus, Staph. epidermidis
and Propionibacterium)
hair, nail or mucous infections
insect
bites
vaginal yeast infections (takes 4-6 weeks for symptom
relief
possible trichomonal vaginitis
MRSA (methicillian-resistant
Staph. aureus)
Action: Major constituent is terpin-4-ol
(40%), also includes eucalyptol,
cneole, and various phenylpropanoids. Produces antimicrobial, antiseptic, and disinfectant activity.
Dosage:
Apply topically 1-2 times daily in concentrations of .4 - 100%.
Precautions/Adverse Reactions: May
cause contact dermatitis or eczema.
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity
to melaleuca oil, or those prone to contact dermatitis. Pregnant
and lactating women.
Nursing
Considerations:
Encourage patients to
place a small amount of
oil on normal skin to check before applying to total
area.
Monitor
for worsening skin conditions
Do not use undiluted oil on babies or toddlers, as little as 5 ml
would be toxic for a small child. Do not use during pregnancy
Do not take
internally.
Warn patients that oil concentrations vary greatly.
(References)
