Tea tree oil allergy

On October 15, 2007 in General

Whilst tea tree oil can be used for many purposes, some people might find that they have have an allergy to a tea tree oil treatment.

Using tea oil in your mouth

Mayoclinic reports that some people have an allergy to tea tree oil when used orally. Here’s what they had to say.

There are multiple reports of allergy to tea tree oil when taken by mouth or used on the skin. Skin reactions range from mild contact dermatitis to severe blistering rashes. People with a history of allergy to tea tree oil ( Melaleuca alternifolia ), to any of its components, or to plants that are members of the Myrtle (Myrtaceae) family, balsam of Peru or benzoin, should not use tea tree oil. People with a history of allergy to tincture of benzoin or colophony (rosin) should not use tea tree oil products because cross-reactions have been reported. There is a case report of a patient with linear IgA disease, a subepidermal blistering disorder, which can be precipitated by contact with tea tree oil.

Allergy symptoms of using tea tree oil

Intelihealth has some interesting information about what to look out for if you’re using tea tree oil and you think you may have an allergy to it.

People with allergies to tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) or plants of the Myrtle (Myrtaceae) family, balsam of Peru or benzoin may be more likely to have allergic reactions to tea tree oil. Numerous cases of allergic reactions have been reported. Allergy symptoms may include red, itching rashes, and skin swelling.

Skin irritations and tea tree oil

cancer.org has alot of really useful information on the topic of tea tree oil allergies and what to look out for. Here is a very thorough list of things that you will want to be aware of as well as how you can prevent and treat any allergies you my have to tea tree oil.

In rare cases, some people develop allergic reactions. Rashes may be mild and itchy, but severe blistering has been reported as well. The rashes usually improve when the person stops using the oil. One medical report described a man who had immediate dizziness and swelling in his throat when tea tree oil was applied to his skin, so serious allergic reactions are possible. People who are allergic to other members of the myrtle (Myrtaceae) family, such as eucalyptus, guava, clove, or allspice, may be more likely to have allergic rashes and other reactions. Those who are sensitive to pine or turpentine may also react to tea tree oil because certain chemicals are somewhat alike. As the oil ages, it breaks down into substances that are more likely to cause reactions. Using fresher products that have not been exposed to air, light, and heat may cause fewer problems with allergies.

Highly concentrated (full strength) tea tree oil may cause skin irritation even in people who are not allergic to the oil. These people may have less of a problem with more diluted oils. Some tea tree oil preparations contain other ingredients as well, some of which may cause irritation, allergy, or rash on their own.

There is some evidence that the oil should not be used on burns. Tea tree oil is not recommended for children. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use this oil.

Tea tree oil is toxic when swallowed. It has been reported to cause drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, coma, unsteadiness, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, blood cell abnormalities, and severe rashes. It should be kept away from pets and children.

So when using tea tree oil, it’s good to be aware that not all things are good for you. Sometimes it’s helpful to know what to look out for when using home remedies.

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