Can you use Tea Tree Oil for Ear Infections?

Can tea tree oil be used for ear infection? Also, can it relieve the loss of hearing and sensation of blockage?

Reply: Ear infections may be caused by bacterial infections. Traditional treatments usually involve a course of antibiotics to address the bacterial infection.

Tea tree oil contains terpinen 4-ol, a natural anti-microbial that's been shown to fight specific strains of bacteria and fungal infections.

You could place a few drops of tea tree oil in the ear canal to treat an ear infection. Care should be taken to use a diluted form of tea tree oil.

Some people may mix tea tree oil with olive oil to make a diluted form. Using pure 100% tea tree oil may cause an allergic reaction or burning sensation in individuals who are sensitive to the ingredients in the oil.

While there may be testimonials available from people who've used tea tree oil for ear infections, there are limited studies available to support how effective this treatment really is. In other words, this treatment may or may not work for everyone as there is no documented research or studies.

You must be careful not to get any tea tree oil near or in your eyes as it may cause a very painful burning or stinging sensation.

According to WebMD.com, it's not recommended to use tea tree oil on ear infections due to the concern of damaging the inner structures of the inner ear.

It's recommended you consult with your doctor should your symptoms of your ear infection do not subside or reduce after a few days of treatment.