Tea Tree Oil Problems

Tea tree oil is an essential oil used for cleaning, disinfecting and treatment of skin problems. While it is an herbal oil free of chemicals or synthetic ingredients, tea tree oil can still cause its share of problems for those who use it.

Toxicity

• Tea tree oil is poisonous when consumed by animals. If using as a topical treatment on an animal, tea tree oil must be diluted to ensure safety.

Eczema

• While tea tree oil is a popular remedy for eczema, it is also noted for making eczema worse in some people.

Vaginal Irritation

• Tea tree oil is used as an additive to baths as well as a treatment for yeast infections in women, but is known to cause vaginal irritation.

Skin Irritation/Rash

• Tea tree oil can dry the skin, so it may cause skin irritation for that reason. Allergies to tea tree oil are also common, causing skin irritation and/or a rash.

Drug Interactions

• Tea tree oil may react negatively with other skin medications or topical creams/ointments you may be using, so you should inform your doctor if you are using tea tree oil.