Tea tree oil derives from the leaves of the Australian tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia. Many people use the oil for medicinal purposes, including healing cuts and wounds.

People use tea tree oil (TTO) to treat various skin conditions, and it may help people with eczema. In this article, learn more about the effects of applying TTO to the skin.

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There is a lack of research into the possible benefits of TTO for eczema specifically. However, some research into TTO’s effects on the skin may also apply to eczema.

Potential benefits of TTO for eczema include:

Reducing inflammation

TTO contains the compound terpinen-4-ol. This compound has anti-inflammatoryTrusted Source properties, which may help alleviate some of the itching, irritation, and swelling associated with eczema.

Improving wound healing

Various studies have focused on tea tree’s antimicrobial effects, which may help with wound healing. However, much of this research is laboratory-based or involves animals.

In a 2019 studyTrusted Source, researchers found that applying both TTO and rosemary oil to rats’ wounds improved healing time and hair follicle regrowth compared to using a single oil or none at all.

Large-scale studies involving humans are necessary to determine how to use TTO for treating wounds.

Fighting off infection

TTO hasTrusted Source antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Applying a diluted solution to broken skin may help prevent eczema from becoming infected.

Relieving itching

Itchy skin is a hallmark of eczema. One old review from 2006 found that TTO was effective in reducing itching when used for eczema on the scalp. Shampoos containing TTO may be useful for this purpose.

Caution

High-dose TTO applications may produce unwanted side effectsTrusted Source, especially in people with sensitive skin. A person should test a TTO preparation on a small patch of skin before applying it to a larger area. When using pure TTO, dilute a few drops into a carrier oil before use.

A popular way to buy TTO is as a small bottle of pure essential oil, but it is also an ingredient in products such as:

  • shampoo and conditioner
  • moisturizer
  • face wash
  • deodorant
  • lip balm
  • toothpaste
  • soap

The National Capital Poison Center recommends avoiding TTO products for use in or around the mouth, such as toothpastes, lip balms, and mouthwashes, as TTO can be harmful if a person swallows it.

If applying TTO to the face or scalp, use preparations specifically designed for the face or scalp.

If using a pure essential TTO, it is crucial to mix just a few drops into a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil.

To check for adverse reactions, people can do a patch test by applying a small amount of the TTO product to a small area of skin and waiting 24 hours. If there is no reaction after 24 hours, it may be safe to use.

A person with eczema may wish to check with a doctor before using TTO preparations to ensure they will not interfere with other eczema treatments.

TTO can be very potent in its undiluted state. Most TTO products contain low concentrations, and adverse effects are usually related to higher concentrations.

Side effects from applying tea tree oil to the skin

Side effects from applying TTO to the skin include:

  • skin irritation, such as itching and inflammation
  • damage to the cornea, the outer surface of the eye
  • development of breast tissue, which may subside after stopping using TTO

If a person experiences a skin rash after applying TTO, they should stop using the product.

Side effects from swallowing tea tree oil

Swallowing even small amounts of TTO could lead to:

  • confusion
  • problems with muscle coordination
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • slurred speech
  • coma

If a person experiences unwanted side effects from ingesting TTO, they should speak with a doctor for advice.

People use topical TTO formulations to treat a range of skin conditions, including eczema.

A few drops of TTO diluted with a carrier oil may help reduce some eczema symptoms, such as inflammation and itching. It may also help prevent infection when a person has broken skin.

If people are using prescription medications to treat eczema, they should check with a doctor before using TTO.