Tea tree oil is one of the home remedies that many people have in their cupboards at home. For good reason: it is almost an all-rounder and can be used in many different ways. We explain what it can do and when you should be careful.
The tea tree from which the valuable essential oil can be extracted is called Melaleuca alternifolia and grows in Australia. Tea tree oil has long been known there as a home remedy. It is said to have come to Europe through James Cook, but it was not until 1925 that its antiseptic, bactericidal and fungicidal effects were scientifically proven. But the oil is not only supposed to help with some skin problems. It is also said to have a positive effect on the psyche, among other things. Tea tree oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and twigs.
Pure tea tree oil has a clear to pale yellow color. It smells fresh and somewhat spicy, for some it has an unpleasant odor. The chemical compounds terpinene and cineole give the oil its healing properties. In order for this to fully develop, you should buy high-quality essential oil: It should contain at least 38 percent terpinen-4-ol and no more than three percent cineole. The latter can have an irritating effect on the mucous membranes in high doses.
Tea tree oil usually has an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect. In laboratory tests, tea tree oil inhibits the growth of bacteria, including acne pathogens, according to “Apotheken Umschau”. It is therefore said to be helpful for inflammatory skin problems such as pimples, acne or warts. There are also indications from experimental studies that the ingredients can render viruses such as herpes simplex viruses or skin fungi harmless. In natural medicine, tea tree oil is used for skin problems, warts, foot and nail fungus or even herpes. However, there are no medical studies that prove these effects.
The home remedy can also be used for colds or as an additive in mouthwashes for inflamed gums – or for gargling for sore throats. What makes it so suitable for these applications: Tea tree oil is very gentle on tissue.
In addition to the mentioned uses on the body, the psychological effects of tea tree oil are often highlighted. The ingredients in the oil are said to be able to help relieve anxiety and make you feel more comfortable. Monoterpenes contained additionally support the effect. Tea tree oil is said to have a pleasant effect on negative feelings such as listlessness or listlessness and states of exhaustion. These effects have not been proven either.
Important: Many bottles say that you can also use the oil pure. However, you should be careful with this and test an area of skin beforehand to see whether skin irritation or allergic reactions occur. You are on the safe side if you do not use the oil pure.
Tea tree oil seems to be a real all-rounder. Of course, it is not a miracle cure and cannot magic away negative feelings or replace going to the doctor. But it can be helpful for many complaints. But be careful: allergic reactions may occur when used on the skin. It is therefore advisable to carry out a test on the skin before use – and to refrain from use if there are any abnormalities. It is also best to consult with your (dermatologist) whether you should use the oil pure or only diluted. You should always avoid contact with your eyes – as with other essential oils. It is expressly not suitable for consumption.
Furthermore, medicinal plants that contain essential oils must not be used in the area of the nose and mouth of infants and small children. This can lead to shortness of breath. People who suffer from asthma should also check with their doctor whether they can use tea tree oil. Inhaling essential oils is definitely taboo as this use can trigger an asthma attack.
Tea tree oil is currently not approved as a medicine in Germany. It is therefore not subject to the strict regulations that apply to medicines. When purchasing, you should always pay attention to what is contained in the bottle and, if necessary, speak to your doctor. Furthermore, pet owners should be careful: “Care products with tea tree oil are offered in Germany to treat pets against ectoparasites such as ticks and fleas as well as against skin fungi. However, cat owners in particular should exercise caution: The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns, especially with repeated use or too high a dosage expressly protects against severe symptoms of poisoning,” it says on the “ESCCAP” website.
The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment also warns against use on the skin: “Concentrated tea tree oil is classified as harmful to health according to the self-classification by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and is assigned the R-phrases R 22 (harmful if swallowed), R 38 (irritating Skin) and R 65 (May cause lung damage if swallowed) as well as the symbol The institute therefore advises: “The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment recommends limiting the concentration of tea tree oil in cosmetic products to a maximum of one percent. Cosmetic products containing tea tree oil should also be protected from light and mixed with antioxidants in order to avoid the oxidation of the terpenes as much as possible. “
Tip: In order to preserve the effectiveness of the oil and minimize unwanted effects, it is best to store the bottle in the folding box so that the light-sensitive tea tree oil is better protected from oxidation. In addition, you should generally use it six months after opening it and it is best to use it highly diluted and not swallow it.
Sources used: “Apotheken Umschau” / “ESCCAP” / Federal Institute for Risk Assessment
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