Tea tree oil: natural antiseptic and its application

Tea tree essential oil, obtained from the leaves of the melaleuca plant (or tea tree), has long been known for its medicinal properties. Native to Australia, this plant is a relative of eucalyptus and belongs to the myrtle family. Pure tea tree oil is widely available in pharmacies and stores, and is used as an ingredient in many cosmetic and health products such as gels, creams, shampoos and toothpastes.

Tea tree oil has long been used in folk medicine. Native Australians used it to treat wounds, burns, and infections by creating a porridge of leaves and applying it to the affected areas. The main active ingredient in tea tree oil is terpinen-4-ol, which has powerful antiseptic and antifungal properties.

Tea tree oil is used to treat various conditions such as acne, athlete's foot, dandruff, vaginitis, thrush, periodontal disease, furunculosis, lice, eczema, psoriasis and yeast infection. It is also widely used as an antiseptic.

Studies have shown the effectiveness of tea tree oil in treating athlete's foot. One study involving 158 patients compared 25% and 50% solutions of the oil to placebo. After 4 weeks of treatment, 64% of the patients who used the 50% solution recovered completely, while only 31% of the placebo group recovered. Some patients discontinued treatment due to dermatitis, which quickly cleared up after the oil use ended.

Another study examined the effects of tea tree oil on nail fungus. 177 patients applied undiluted oil or 1% clotrimazole solution daily. After six months of treatment, it was found that tea tree oil was as effective as an antifungal agent.

In the treatment of acne, tea tree oil has also been shown to be effective. A randomized study compared a 5% tea tree oil gel and a 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion. Both products showed significant improvement in skin conditions, although tea tree oil was slower to act, but caused fewer side effects such as itching and dry skin.

Tea tree oil also helps in the fight against dandruff. Clinical studies have shown that shampooing with a 5% solution of the oil significantly reduced the amount of dandruff in 4 weeks.

Despite the numerous beneficial properties, you should be aware of possible side effects. Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. In rare cases, its use has led to breast enlargement in boys, so people with hormone-dependent diseases, pregnant and lactating women should refrain from using it. Never take tea tree oil internally - it can lead to serious health problems.

Tea tree essential oil is a powerful natural antiseptic with a wide range of uses. However, its use requires caution and adherence to recommendations to ensure safety and effectiveness.