It is rather unfortunate that, despite our access to numerous data and detailed information, tea tree oil still has its fair share of myths surrounding it. Today, we will attempt to list some of the more common and recent myths associated with tea tree oil. Without further ado, here are 5 myths about tea tree oil.
Myth 1: Since tea tree oil is all natural, it must be safe to use and consume
Tea tree oil may be all natural, but it isn´t completely safe to use and consume. Tea tree essential oil can be quite harsh when used in a concentrated form, leading to skin irritation. Hence, it is always advisable to use it in diluted form. However, people can experience allergic reactions to tea tree oil, even at low concentrations. If ingested and consumed, tea tree oil can be really poisonous.
Myth 2: Tea tree oil can be used as an alternative to antibiotics
Yes, we can´t deny the fact that tea tree oil has antimicrobial, anti-bacterial, and antiseptic properties. But, it can still be rather toxic when ingested. In fact, tea tree oil can only be used topically. Therefore, it has limited use and potential. Hence, it cannot be used as an alternative to antibiotics, especially to those used internally.
Myth 3: Tea tree only grows in Australia
Contrary to popular opinion, tea tree oil doesn´t only grow in the land down under. Tea trees and Melaleuca species can grow and do grow all over the globe, in similar climates. Some of them serve as beautiful landscape plants while others have become a pest.
Myth 4: Tea tree oil comprises 48 different compounds
Well, tea tree oil doesn´t comprise of only 48 different compounds. In fact, if we are to be more precise, over 100 different compounds have been identified in tea tree oil.
Myth 5: Tea tree oil is better when the terpinene levels are higher than 40%
The standard for tea tree oil is around 30% terpinenes, and anything higher than 40% has shown little to no additional benefit.
Myth 6: If it causes a rash, it´s a sign that your body is detoxing
If the tea tree oil causes a rash, it is not a sign that your body is detoxing! A rash is an indication of skin irritation, often caused by an allergy to the plant from which the essential oil is made.
Myth 7: Tea tree oil mole removal myth
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca) has been touted as a natural remedy for anything from skin tag to wart. Some websites contend that it’s useful for removing moles, purporting that it completely “cures” moles and leaves behind the only healthy skin. It’s a very popular myth for mole removal – but it is, sadly, a myth. While tea tree oil has some excellent beneficial properties, studies reveal nothing that would help remove a mole. That’s not how tea tree works, and it’s not how moles work.