Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from tea tree leaves. It possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immuno-stimulating effect (1). You can safely use tea tree oil for kids under the guidance of experts who can tell the proper dosage and the right mode of administration (topical application or inhalation) for children. They can also advise you about some trustable brands to buy from. The US Food And Drug Administration (USFDA) doesn’t regulate essential oil sale or use (2). Hence, finding a safe and effective product is tricky. You may find tea tree oil in over-the-counter (OTC) products, such as face washes and mosquito repellents, but only a small amount is incorporated, and so, it usually has no adverse effects. However, when it comes to using tea tree oil directly, caution is necessary. Read on to learn whether tea tree oil is safe for children and its possible uses and side effects.
Tea Tree Oil For Children: Safety Aspects To Consider
Make sure the brand you are choosing is known for its Check the labels for ingredients, and prefer the ones made from organic sources.
The American College of Healthcare Sciences suggests diluting the oil when using it for children (3). For instance, you can blend three to five drops of tea tree oil with an ounce (30ml) of carrier oil such as jojoba, argan, almond, coconut, and avocado.
Perform a patch test before using it. Apply the oil on a tiny patch of skin to observe the skin’s response. If the child has any allergies or they are too sensitive, then it is better to avoid the oil.
As per a report by the University of Maryland, tea tree oil might cause detrimental health effects on oral use (4).
If you decide to use tea tree oil after conforming to the safety considerations, then it is good to know about the likely uses and limitations of the oil.
Possible Uses Of Tea Tree Oil For Children
The topical use of tea tree oil for children may provide relief in the following ways. Remember, tea tree oil is not a medicine and not a replacement for a doctor’s advice. Essential oils may work for some children, while some might have side effects.
Possible Side Effects Of Tea Tree Oil For Children
The chief side effects are irritation, allergy, burning and redness of skin. Tea tree oil can be toxic if ingested and should be kept out of reach of children. Some of the likely side effects of tea tree oil are:
A study has found a link between the use of product (that included tea tree oil and lavender oil) and abnormal growth (prepubertal gynecomastia) of the breast in young boys (10). In one case, the swelling came back to normal once the boy stopped using the product. However, there is a difference of opinion on this and further research is needed to know the exact effects of tea tree oil on abnormal breat growth.
There have been reports of allergic contact dermatitis with the use of tea tree oil (11). You may have to be extra cautious when using it for children who have sensitive skin.
Children have immature livers and thin skin, and they can be more susceptible than adults to the toxic effects of essential oils (12).
There is limited research data on the toxicity of tea tree oil. However, its excessive use on a child’s skin might be harmful.
Other Gentle Essential Oils For Children
Some gentle essential oils include lavender, blue cypress, sandalwood, ylang-ylang, neroli, and spearmint. However, even the safest oils known could have individual responses (3). So make a careful decision.
2 ounces boiled or distilled water 1.5 ounces vodka or witch hazel 15 drops of tea tree essential oil 25-30 drops of citronella essential oil 25-30 drops of peppermint essential oil
Fill a clean spray bottle with the ingredients listed above. Shake the bottle well and store it away from direct sunlight and your child’s reach. Spray it on their clothes every two hours. Be careful not to spray it into their eyes, mucous membranes, or open wounds.
