Tea tree topical

Tea tree oil (topical) comes from the leaves of the tea tree and is also called Aceite del Árbol de Té, Australian Tea Tree Oil, Huile de Melaleuca, Huile de Théier, Huile de Théier Australien, Huile Essentielle de Théier, Melaleuca alternifolia, Melaleuca Oil, Oil of Melaleuca, Oleum Melaleucae, and other names. It should not be confused with the common tea plant used to make black and green teas.

Tea tree topical has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective treatment for athlete's foot (tinea pedis), fungal infections of the nails, and mild to moderate acne.

Other uses that have not been proven with research include bad breath, cold sores, dandruff, dental plaque, gingivitis, hemorrhoids, lice, allergies, and various yeast and bacterial infections.

It is not certain whether tea tree topical is effective for treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved this product for medicinal use. Tea tree topical should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Tea tree topical is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards for many herbal products, and some supplements on the market have been found to contain toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Tea tree topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You may also want to talk to a practitioner who is trained in using herbal/health supplements.

If you decide to use tea tree topical, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms of tea tree (liquids, oils, etc.) at the same time, unless a healthcare professional tells you to. Using different forms together raises the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with tea tree topical does not get better, or if it worsens while using this product.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are using.

Before using tea tree topical, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use tea tree topical if you have certain medical conditions.

Tea tree topical is considered possibly safe to use during pregnancy when applied to the skin. It is likely unsafe when taken by mouth and it can be toxic. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.

Tea tree topical is considered possibly safe to use if you are nursing a baby when applied to the skin. It is likely unsafe when taken by mouth and it can be toxic. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. Tea tree topical products might not be safe especially for boys who have not reached puberty.

Get emergency medical help if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, tea tree topical is believed to be likely safe for most people when used on the skin.

Common side effects of tea tree topical may include:

• skin irritation and swelling; or
• skin dryness, itching, burning, and redness in people with acne.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra tea tree topical to compensate for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone swallows any tea tree product.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding any limitations on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may interact with tea tree topical, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform each of your health care providers about all medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or stop using.