The general terms for a wide range of persistent skin diseases are eczema[i] and dermatitis[ii]. This is characterized by cracking, flaking, oozing, bleeding and blistering. Eczema is usually treated by using corticosteroids which are prescribed by doctors but tea tree oil also has the potential to treat this persistent skin condition. Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that can alleviate symptoms and control eczema. Tea tree oil eczema treatment can reduce allergic reactions and soothe the areas affected by eczema.
To use tea tree oil for eczema, combine ½ cup of carrier oil with 20 drops of tea tree oil. Before applying the oil on the affected area of your skin, make sure that you test a small area of your skin for allergic reaction. The mixture should be applied on the affected area twice daily. Aside from mixing tea tree oil with carrier oils, you can also treat eczema by adding 25 drops of tea tree oil to 1 cup of selected skin cream. Shake the mixture well for the cream and oil to blend properly. Reduce oil drops by half if you intend to use the cream with children and babies.
Tea tree oil has potent antiseptic properties that can cause adverse reactions to skin when applied undiluted but the oil can actually alleviate itching, burning and eczema outbreak by dabbing five drops of the oil onto a cotton ball. Even eczema in dogs can be treated by adding 20 drops of the oil to distilled water. For more serious conditions, consulting with your doctor, or in the case of your pets your local vet, is still the best advice.
When treating eczema tea tree oil should also be coupled with continuous consumption of vitamin supplements and fresh produce. This will boost your immune system and improve your overall skin condition. Keep in mind that tea tree oil will not totally cure eczema but is only used to control breakouts. Medical attention is still needed for more serious conditions as they cannot be treated using tea tree oil eczema alone.