What Are the Dangers of Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy?

Tea tree oil has become popular in the last few years for many different home remedies, including fighting infections. Its uses include curing everything from chapped lips to foot fungus. Home remedies that are normally considered safe for a healthy individual can be very detrimental if taken during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before trying any herbal or other home remedies to prevent putting your health or the health of your baby at risk.

Allergic Reactions

• It is possible to develop an allergic reaction to tea tree oil, particularly if you have shown sensitivity to eucalyptus, benzoin, and any members of the myrtle plants or balsam of Peru. Reactions can range from mild rashes on the skin to severe blistering.

Drug Interactions

• Tea tree oil can cause severe drug interactions, and people who are taking antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, and anti-inflammatory drugs are especially prone to these interactions. People taking herbal remedies and other supplements can also be affected. Tea tree oil may negatively interact with a pregnant woman's prenatal vitamins.

Complications During Childbirth

• Tea tree oil can reduce or slow down contractions that naturally occur during childbirth, according to the Medline Plus website. Complications of this sort can endanger the life and health of both the mother and baby.

Taking Tea Tree Oil Orally

• Taking tea tree oil orally can cause gastric discomfort such as cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. This could lead to dehydration and other problems for the pregnant woman. Other symptoms when taken orally are confusion, lethargy, difficulty walking, a compromised immune system and coma; these can all put both mom and baby at risk.