Though tea tree oil has been used by Indigenous Australians for centuries as a traditional medicine, it has become increasingly popular in alternative medicine and complementary therapy for the last few decades.
Often added into commercial products like soap, toothpaste, and lip balm or sold as an essential oil, it can also be used at home in DIY household cleaners, homemade hand sanitizers, and acne treatments. There are so many healthful and beneficial ways to use tea tree oil.
What is tea tree oil?
Use with caution: The side effects of tea tree oil
Like all things, if used incorrectly tea tree oil can cause side effects. Do not swallow because tea tree oil can be fatal. Remember to use carrier oils, and avoid contact with your eyes, inner ears, nasal passages, and vaginal and anal cavities.
According to the National Capital Poison Center (NCPC), some side effects of tea tree oil are:
- Skin irritation (redness, itching, burning, stinging, dry or scaly skin)
- Allergic reaction (allergic contact dermatitis)
- Poisonous if swallowed (do not take by the mouth)
- Causes poisoning to cats and dogs if applied to their skin in large amounts
Additional side effects from swallowing tea tree oil can include:
- Lethargy
- Confusion
- Loss of full control over body movement (ataxia)
- Unconsciousness
Some of the side effects from inhalation are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vertigo
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop usage and call your medical professional if there is trouble breathing or dizziness. In case of ingestion or suspected poison, call the NCPC at 1-800-222-1222.
