Tea Tree Oil Safety

Tea tree oil is a liquid derived from crushing the leaves of the tea tree, a type of plant native to Australia. Despite its use by herbalists in the treatment of fungal infections and acne, tea tree oil has many side effects. Some of them are very serious.

Types of Side Effects

• When used topically on a fungal rash or blemishes, tea tree oil may cause skin dryness, itching, stinging, burning, and redness, reports RxList. Although unpleasant, these side effects pose little risk for long-term health complications.

Use in Children

• The combination of tea tree oil and lavender may cause hormonal imbalances in pre-pubescent boys, causing a feminine swelling of breast tissue, cautions RxList. Avoid using this combination in male children.

Allergies

• Infrequently, patients experience allergic reactions to tea tree oil applied to the skin. Because these allergies have the potential to be life threatening, seek emergency medical attention if you develop shortness of breath, chest pain, a skin rash or swelling of your face or extremities after using tea tree oil.

Warning

• Never ingest tea tree oil. Doing so may cause confusion, unsteadiness, paralysis or coma.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant or nursing, ask your doctor before taking tea tree oil. If you have an allergy to turpentine, avoid using products that contain the oil.