Is it dangerous to ingest small amounts of tea tree oil?!


Question: Ive been applying to my cold sore and some of it gets in my mouth, is this dangerous, I do feel what seems to be palpitations after I begin tasting the tea tree oil. Thanks for the advice in advance.


Answers: Ive been applying to my cold sore and some of it gets in my mouth, is this dangerous, I do feel what seems to be palpitations after I begin tasting the tea tree oil. Thanks for the advice in advance.

Palpitations are not likely caused by the topical use of tea tree oil, even if a miniscule amount is swallowed. The most usual adverse reaction to tea tree oil is a rash or itchy skin irritation. However, I did find these warnings on this site: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi...

"Side Effects and Warnings
Tea tree oil taken by mouth is associated with potentially severe reactions, even when used in small quantities. Several reports describe people using tea tree oil by mouth who developed severe rash, reduced immune system function, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, drowsiness, inflammation of the corners of the mouth, slow or uneven walking, confusion, or coma. There have also been reports of nausea, unpleasant taste, burning sensation, and bad breath associated with tea tree oil use. Many tea tree preparations contain large volumes of alcohol.

"... Animal research suggests that tea tree oil used on the skin in large quantities can cause serious reactions such as difficulty walking, weakness, muscle tremor, slowing of brain function, and poor coordination. ..."

All these are talking about using it in mouthwash or in a product that is applied all over the body. But if you're allergic (or think you are) you probably can become more sensitive the more you use it.

I might suggest you try another product for cold sores that contains L-lysine, known to help reduce the duration and reccurance. If you get them frequently, also take L-lysine internally. Available at health food stores. Read about one popular brand here: http://www.quantumhealth.com/productgrou...

have no idea

Try olive leaf instead, which is edible.

Unless you are trained in aromatherapy, no one should ingest them, but since it is such a small amount, you should be okay. I would just try to be careful, though.

this is an external use only,from what i,ve read in the past.although anything put on an external area will be absorbed into the body. for cold sores i,ve used organic unsweetened yogurt,which is full of good bacteria,eat it and apply locally also.take a good probiotic for the good bacteria which your body needs for health issues.

Although one Naturopath is known to have swallowed an ounce of tea tree oil daily for thirty days and appeared to show no ill effects, it is generally recommended for external use only.

not at all,but drink lots of water.





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