Originally in Australia tea tree oil was used to fight serious viral skin infections similar to herpes. Researchers have conclusively determined that tea tree oil does, in fact, destroy the herpes virus in a controlled environment. Its effectiveness in human subjects has not been quite as conclusive, as everyone’s internal environment differs. Nonetheless, it does work for some, and generally (except in the case of allergies) does not come with any dangerous side effects as long as it is used properly.
Tea tree oil for herpes can be applied topically, but should not be ingested. The oil must be diluted prior to applying it to any portion of the body, as it is extremely potent in its pure form and can cause skin irritation – especially if allergies are a problem. Water acts as a great diluent, though many prefer to use some kind of medium to create a cream or ointment instead. To dilute with water, mix one teaspoon of the oil with eight ounces of water and apply it immediately. Olive oil or a similar product can be used in place of water.
Tea tree oil is simply swabbed onto a sore or lesion with some kind of applicator (typically a cotton ball or swab). When using tea tree oil herpes sores can become quite irritated if you happen to be one of the people it simply does not work for, so be sure to try a small, isolated test before using it extensively. As an alternative to swabbing, some prefer to mix the oil in with a hot bath; this is especially convenient when there are many sores. Again, make sure the ratio is no more than 1tsp to 8oz of water. Average bathtubs hold between 25 and 45 gallons of water, which translates to a minimum of 65 ounces of tea tree oil; as such, smaller baths with possibly lower ratios of the oil could be more realistic considering that most tea tree oil products come in quantities of 16 ounces or less.
Applying Tea Tree Oil Directly
Should you choose to go with the direct application method, here are four simple steps to apply the oil safely:
- Disinfect your hands with hot water and soap, then make sure they are dry.
- Dilute some tea tree oil with water (about a 1:7 ratio) and soak the end of a cotton swab, or dip an applicator/cotton ball into it.
- Lightly dab one of the sores or lesions. Wait a few minutes before proceeding to determine whether or not your skin has a negative reaction to the oil. If not, swab the remaining areas.
- Discard the applicator and thoroughly wash your hands again.
This should be repeated at least two times a day, and at most four. Be careful not to touch your eyes or mouth if any oil touched your hand. While some people have had great success with this, remember that others have had absolutely no reaction to tea tree oil for herpes.
Safety Tips
All manners of bacteria, fungi, and viruses can fester in the objects people touch every day. Especially in the case of open sores, it is extremely important to thoroughly wash your hands prior to and after applying tea tree oil to herpes sores, especially since others can contract herpes from you. Also, utilize disposable paper towels when possible, or throw out any rags used. Finally, as with any natural medication, ask your doctor before using tea tree oil for specific advice and warnings tailored to your specific situation.
Joxito