YahGarden

Herb library · Herb · Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea Tree Oil

An essential oil distilled from an Australian tree's leaves, used on the skin for acne, athlete's foot, and nail fungus. A small amount of evidence suggests it might help acne and athlete's foot. It must never be swallowed.

Serious warning

Do not swallow tea tree oil. NCCIH says taking it by mouth can cause serious symptoms such as confusion, unsteadiness, inability to walk, and coma. Mouthrinses containing it should not be swallowed either.

Traditional use

The tea tree is native to New South Wales and Queensland, and the Aboriginal people of Australia traditionally used its leaves for wounds, burns, and insect bites. The oil comes from steam-distilling the leaves, mostly in Australia. Today it is sold for use on the skin for acne, athlete's foot, toenail fungus, lice, and other conditions, and in mouthrinses.

What studies show

  • Limited

    Acne: a small amount of research suggests it might help; more evidence is needed.

  • Limited

    Athlete's foot: a small amount of research suggests it may help, but it may not work as well as standard medicines.

  • Insufficient

    Nail fungus: only a few studies, too few and too weak for any conclusion.

  • Insufficient

    Head lice: tested only in combination with other ingredients, so its own part is unclear.

  • Insufficient

    Eyelid inflammation from Demodex mites: several studies, but effectiveness is uncertain.

  • Insufficient

    Gum inflammation, plaque, and bad breath: low-strength mouthrinses are sold for these, but their effectiveness is uncertain.

Be careful of

Cautions

  • AllergyMost people can use it on the skin without problems, but some develop redness or irritation, more likely if the product is old or has been exposed to heat, light, or air.
  • PregnancyTea tree oil products used on the skin may be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • InteractionIf you take any medicine, check with your clinician first; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.
  • Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are giving it to a child.

Sources

  1. Tea Tree Oil: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 25, 2026

Reviewed September 25, 2026.