Evidence supporting the use of: Tea Tree Oil
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is commonly used for bites and stings, supported by both traditional use and limited scientific evidence. Traditionally, Indigenous Australians used tea tree leaves to treat skin injuries, including insect bites and stings. Modern research provides some support for its use due to its documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Laboratory studies have shown that tea tree oil exhibits activity against bacteria that may infect bite or sting sites, and in vitro studies indicate potential to reduce inflammation. For example, a 2006 review in Clinical Microbiology Reviews highlighted tea tree oil’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects.

However, direct clinical trials specifically investigating tea tree oil’s effectiveness for bites and stings are limited. Most available evidence comes from small-scale studies or extrapolation from its general effects on skin irritation and minor wounds. The anti-inflammatory effects could potentially reduce swelling and discomfort associated with bites and stings, but robust clinical data are lacking. Adverse reactions, including allergic contact dermatitis, have also been reported.

In summary, tea tree oil’s use for bites and stings is partially supported by scientific evidence, mainly based on its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions, but high-quality clinical trials are lacking. Its use remains popular in traditional and complementary medicine, but it should be approached with caution due to potential skin irritation in some individuals.

More about Tea Tree Oil
More about Bites and Stings

Other ingredients used for Bites and Stings

aloe vera
basil
beta caryophyllene
beta-pinene
betel
bisabolol
black cumin
black walnut
bасора
chamomile
citrus oil
turmeric
curcumin
echinacea purpurea
goldenseal
green tea
hemp oil
horseradish
honeysuckle
lavender
mustard seed
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phenolic acids
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schizonepeta
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vitamin C
vitamin E
zinc
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chickweed
xanthium (cockleburs)
papaya
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mugwort
neem tree
nut grass
clerodendrum indicum
paederia foetida
blackboard tree
boxthorne
buckthorn
lemongrass
siler root
fern
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
wintergreen
camphor oil
menthol oil
paw paw
herbal blend (proprietary)
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
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Baphicacanthus cusia
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Products containing Tea Tree Oil

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.