Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil from the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia tree with potent antimicrobial properties. Evidence supports topical use for acne (C-grade, comparable to benzoyl peroxide but slower), nail fungus, and athlete's foot. Active components include terpinen-4-ol and other terpenes. TOPICAL USE ONLY - oral ingestion is toxic and can cause CNS depression, ataxia, and coma. May cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Effective at 5-15% concentration for most applications.
Quick Answer
What it is
Tea tree oil is an essential oil from the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia tree with potent antimicrobial properties. Evidence supports topical use for acne (C-grade, comparable to benzoyl peroxide but slower), nail fungus, and athlete's foot.
Key findings
- Grade C: Acne Lesions (Acne)
- Grade C: Fungal Cure
- Grade C: Clinical Cure
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Tea Tree Oil
Quick Facts: Tea Tree Oil
- Best Evidence:Grade C
- Conditions Studied:1
- Research Outcomes:5
- Key Effect:Acne
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
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