They would crush the leaves and apply them to the affected area. Australian soldiers participating in World War I were given tea tree oil as a disinfectant, leading to a high demand for its production. The oil kills fungus and bacteria, including those resistant to some powerful antibiotics. The oil should not be applied to broken skin or to areas affected by rashes not due to fungus. The oil may burn if it gets into eyes, the nose, mouth, or other tender areas.
Some people have allergic reactions, including rashes and itching, when applying tea tree oil.
For this reason, only a small amount should be applied when first using it. The oil should never be taken internally. Antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia -A review. Carson CF, Cookson BD, Farrelly HD, Riley T. Susceptibility of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia . This Encyclopedia was researched and written by a team of nationally known health care professionals from a variety of disciplines, who labored to create a new standard of excellence with this innovative and comprehensive reference work.