The Complete Guide to Using Tea Tree Oil for Babies

Over the years, tea tree oil has gained in prominence as a valuable oil for treating simple illnesses in children. This is, in no small part, down to its various disinfectant and immunity-boosting properties, which has led to it being used in many creams, lotions and home remedies. It can also act as a useful massage oil. Read on to know about the benefits of tea tree oil for babies, its usage, precautions to be taken and the avoidable side effects. 

 

baby kicking

Is Tea Tree Oil Safe for Babies? 


Let’s begin with the most pressing question, is tea tree oil for a baby safe and healthy? The answer is a resounding yes. Tea tree oil has several health advantages for our tiny tots, as long as it is applied topically. According to a study published by the University of Kentucky, it is one of the few essential oils that can be safely used for baby skin. However, tea tree oil is poisonous if consumed and this may turn out to be fatal for babies, so topical application is an important aspect to be remembered by all parents. 

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Benefits of Tea Tree Oil for Babies.

As parents, we are always on the lookout for beneficial herbal remedies for our little ones. Tea tree oil has featured as a natural remedy for quite some time, proving especially effective for skin conditions. Below are some of the uses of tea tree oil for babies:


Faster healing.


By virtue of its strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can speed up the process of healing of wounds. It kills the bacteria lurking inside and around the wounds and can help erase the scarring post healing. 


Relief from cough and cold.


Tea tree oil can also double up as a more than capable remedy for treating cold and cough. The process couldn’t be simpler, involving rubbing oil on your little one's throat and chest, which can ease their cold and cough significantly. 


Effective baby wipe. 


When paired with warm water, tea tree oil can also be used as a baby wipe after our little ones have soiled. Drop a little tea tree oil in warm water and use it to wipe the area clean and get rid of the foul smell. 


Managing fungal infections. 


Convincing evidence has been found that using tea tree oil for babies can also help treat fungal infections. The anti-fungal characteristics possessed by tea tree oil can eliminate microorganisms that cause infections such as ringworm and other skin afflictions. 


Doing away with warts. 


Massaging your little angel with tea tree oil can play an important role in successfully treating warts brought about by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Applied once daily to the wounds for about two weeks, tree oil managed to heal the area completely. 


What are the Steps and Precautions Involved While Applying Tea tree Oil on Babies? 


While applying tea tree oil on your baby’s skin, first dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut or avocado oil. Start by applying the diluted oil on just a tiny area of skin to do a patch test. Stay attentive to any rashes that might occur for 12-24 hours. 


Proceed to massage your baby if no reaction takes place, and keep in mind to not use the oil around or close to the mouth. If you spot any hints of inflammation or other allergies, you must stop applying it and consult an expert immediately. 


Side Effects of Tea Tree Oil for Babies


  • Tea Tree Oil should be used sparingly and with caution for babies under 6 months of age, as it may lead to hormonal imbalances if applied daily.

 

  • Tea tree oil for babies with eczema must be avoided at all costs, as it can cause dryness and irritation. 

  • Though tea tree oil for baby diaper rash treatment is usually effective, babies with sensitive skin can develop a negative reaction to the oil, and this might make the diaper rash worse. 

  • In rare cases, using tea tree oil and lavender oil for babies can bring about prepubertal gynecomastia, which is an abnormal enlargement of breast tissues.

  • Swallowing the oil is incredibly harmful and may be fatal for our little ones. 

Tea tree oil has several advantageous properties in its locker, which makes it one of the best essential oils for babies. When applied topically and diluted with other oils, it is both safe and beneficial for babies and can result in many positive effects in the long run. Taking all precautions, remaining watchful of any reactions and keeping your pediatrician in the loop is vital. 

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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed/shared in the blog above are personal thoughts of the writer. Berrytree recommends you consult with your doctor/pediatrician/family before instinctively following any suggested steps.