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| A newsletter put out by Dr. Joe Demers, (President of the American
Holistic Veterinary Medical Association for 2000-2001) states that Tea
Tree oil that is commonly used in the treatment for many disorders in humans
and animals is not as safe as it is being commonly used.
Dr. Demer's report. Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca Oil) is being marketed for the treatment of many disorders in humans and animals. The active ingredients in tea tree oil have a similar structure and action as turpentine. Mealeuca Oil comes from the Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). It is also known as Tea Tree Oil and Australian Tea Tree Oil. The oil is reputed to have mild antibacterial and antifungal properties and is marketed as a natural remedy in both animal and human medicine. Animals and humans are getting poisoned from topical use and from accidental ingestion of Tea Tree Oil. There are numerous reports of toxic reactions from Tea Tree Oil being used topically to treat fleas in animals, and a case of avian poisoning. Melaleuca Oil is highly lipophilic and can be absorbed through intact skin to cause systemic toxicity. Pets grooming themselves may also ingest some topically applied oil. Application of Tea Tree oil to control fleas has resulted in death in kittens. You should be aware that Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca Oil) is potentially toxic to animals and avians when applied topically. Use this information and your own judgment when deciding if you feel comfortable in applying Tea Tree Oil to your pet friend. Tea Tree Oil should NOT be applied to avians. |
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Please keep in mind that all substances, natural or unnatural can be toxic. Just because a substance is "natural" does not mean that it is safe. Please consult a veterinarian or a specialist before applying anything that you are not sure of. Moderation and dilution are sometimes the way a natural drug needs to be used, whereas in it's pure state, it may be toxic. |
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