Topic Shorts & Resources

Tea Tree:

Tea tree grows in Australia and Asia. Historically, the
leaves were used as a substitute for tea, which is how it got
its name. The part used medicinally is the oil from the
leaves.

In 1923, Dr. A.R. Penfold discovered Tea Tree oil was 13
times stronger as an antiseptic bacteriacide than carbolic
acid, considered the universal standard in the early 1900's.

(Melaleuca alternifolia) Common names: Manuka,
melaleuca, tea tree oil. The tea tree grows in Australia and
Asia. This tall evergreen tree has a white, spongy bark.
The oil from the leaves is used. Australian Aboriginals
used the leaves to treat cuts and skin infections. They
would crush the leaves and apply them to the affected
area. Captain James Cook and his crew named the tree
“tea tree,” using its leaves as a substitute for tea as well as
to flavor beer. Australian soldiers participating in World War
I were given tea tree oil as a disinfectant, leading to a high
demand for its production.

The oil contains numerous chemicals known as terpenoids.
Australian standards were established for the amount of
one particular compound, terpinen-4-ol, which must make
up at least 30% and preferably 40–50% of the oil for it to be
medically useful. Another compound, cineole, should make
up less than 15% and preferably 2.5% of the oil.

Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-infection oil. It is effective against nail fungus, ringworm,
athlete's foot, dandruff, acne and many types of infestations including lice, mites and scabies.

The oil kills fungus and bacteria, including those resistant to some antibiotics. A single blind study has shown topical
application of 5% tea tree oil in people with acne is as helpful as benzoylperoxide and has fewer side effects. A study found
100% tea tree oil applied topically was as effective as the antifungal medicine clotrimazole for people with athlete’s foot
fungus affecting the toe nails.

Oil at a strength of 70–100% should be applied moderately at least twice per day to the affected areas of skin or nail. For
topical treatment of acne, the oil is used at a dilution of 5–15%. Concentrations as strong as 40% may be used—with
extreme caution and qualified advice—as vaginal douches.

While tea tree oil can be applied to minor cuts and scrapes, use caution for more extensive areas of broken skin or areas
affected by rashes not due to fungus. The oil may burn if it gets into the eyes, nose, mouth, or other tender areas. Some
people have allergic reactions, including rashes and itching, when applying tea tree oil. For this reason, only a small amount
should be applied when first using it. Tea tree oil should never be swallowed, as it may cause nerve damage and other
problems.

To dilute tea tree oil in a carrier oil such as olive, apricot, almond or avocado oil add 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) full-strength
tea tree oil to 4 ounces (1/2 cups) or more of the carrier oil, depending on the oil's purpose and your personal preference.

One ounce of tea tree oil in 4 ounces carrier oil produces a 20% concentration of tea tree oil.

To treat a fungus condition like athlete's foot, this is probably the concentration you will want to try first. For all purpose
massage oil with mild antiseptic properties use a larger quantity of carrier oil.