Positive Health Online

Abstract

SATCHELL et al., Department of Dermatology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia, studied the treatment of tinea pedis [fungal infection of the feet] with 25% and 50% tea tree oil .

Background

Tea tree oil has been shown in vitro to be active against dermatophytes . The study aimed to confirm this in vivo .

Methodology

Randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial on 158 patients with interdigital tinea pedis treated twice daily with either a placebo solution, a solution of 25% tea tree oil, or a solution of 50% tea tree oil . They were reviewed at 2 and 4 weeks of treatment.

Results

A marked clinical response was seen in the 50% tea tree group (68%), compared to 72% in the 25% tea tree group and 39% in the placebo group. The mycological cure rate after 4 weeks was 64% in the 50% tea tree group, compared to 31% in the placebo group. 3.8% of patients developed moderate to severe dermatitis on application of tea tree oil . This improved quickly after stopping the medication.

Conclusion

Tea tree oil has activity against dermatophytes in vivo as well as in vitro .

References

Satchell AC, Saurajen A, Bell C, Barnetson-Ross SC. Treatment of interdigital tinea pedis with 25% and 50% tea tree oil solution: a randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded study. The Australasian Journal of Dermatology 43 (3): 175-178, Aug 2002.