Using tea tree oil for conquering gum disease may not be such a great idea. Tea tree oil seems to have antiseptic properties in its leaves. But according to the Mayo Clinic, using tea tree oil may also do some unpleasant things to your mouth as well as your body.
Uses
Tea tree oil has been utilized by Aborigines for centuries as an antiseptic, antifungal treatment, to treat dandruff, acne, jock itch, and gum disease, among other conditions and illnesses.
Background
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the native Australian Melaleuca alternifiolia tree. The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of the plant. The tea tree oil plant is said to have antiseptic properties. According to the Mayo Clinic, the Melaleuca alterniflia plant's terpinen-4-ol, is believed to be the essential curing ingredient It also has been used as a disinfectant.
Warnings
Even though Aborigines have been utilizing tea tree oil for thousands of years, the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus warn people that tea tree oil should not be utilized orally for gum disease. Evidence based by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration says that there are reported cases of toxicity of tea tree oil when consuming it by the mouth. When applied to the skin, it can be mildly irritating. Tea tree oil has been associated with the development of allergic contact dermatitis.
Side Effects
Utilizing tea tree oil for curing gum disease can bring out reactions in people, according to Medline Plus.. Even when this herb is taken in small quantities reactions can take place.If tea tree oil is taken by mouth, the functioning of the immune system can be reduced. Other possible side effects are abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, drowsiness, confusion and bad breath. One can even fall into a coma.
Not Use
Tea tree oil may interact negatively with several medications, according to the Mayo Clinic. A person using the following medications may want to check with his doctor before using tea tree oil and anti-inflammatory medications, any anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, cancer medications or herbal supplements.
Safety
The United States Food and Drug Administration does not study or regulate herbal supplements. According to the Mayo Clinic there is no guarantee of the safety and the effects of tea tree oil may vary.
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