Evidence supporting the use of: Tea Tree Oil
For the health condition: Itching

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Tea tree oil is used to relieve itching, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Several clinical studies and reviews support its efficacy in reducing pruritus (itchiness), particularly in cases related to skin conditions such as eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and allergic reactions. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in the "Archives of Dermatological Research" (2002) found that tea tree oil was effective in reducing the severity of itching in patients with dermatitis. Another study in "Contact Dermatitis" (1991) noted that tea tree oil showed promise as a topical treatment for histamine-induced itch.

Mechanistically, the main active component, terpinen-4-ol, is believed to suppress inflammatory mediators and reduce histamine-induced skin irritation. Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial effects may also help with itching caused by minor infections or infestations (e.g., head lice, scabies), though evidence for these uses is more limited.

While the evidence base is not exhaustive and most studies involve small sample sizes, the cumulative data suggest a moderate scientific rationale for tea tree oil’s use in relieving itching, especially when the cause is inflammatory or microbial in nature. Nonetheless, tea tree oil can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, and should be used with caution, especially on broken skin.

More about Tea Tree Oil
More about Itching

Products containing Tea Tree Oil

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