Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Australian Tea Tree Oil? Is Australian Tea Tree Oil safe for nursing mother and child? Does Australian Tea Tree Oil extracts into breast milk? Does Australian Tea Tree Oil has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Australian Tea Tree Oil influence milk supply or can Australian Tea Tree Oil decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Australian Tea Tree Oil lactation summary

Australian Tea Tree Oil usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Australian Tea Tree Oil is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of Australian Tea Tree Oil may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Australian Tea Tree Oil may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Australian Tea Tree Oil low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using Australian Tea Tree Oil We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Australian Tea Tree Oil usage in lactation

It is used the essential oil from leaves and buds that contains: cineole and terpineol. Used on skin due to antiseptic, anti-fungal and insect-repellent properties. Effective for topical treatment of acne. Toxic for oral ingestion, especially in very young infants. At latest update, relevant published data on excretion into breast milk were not found. Avoid application on the nipple since essential oil is highly toxic for the Nervous System.

Alternate Drugs for Phytotherapy, Topical Use

Calendula(Safe)
Poplar(Safe)
Camphor(Unsafe)
Marigold(Safe)
Winterbloom(Safe)
Golden Seal(Low Risk)
Nogal(Safe)
Mayapple(Unsafe)
Tepescohuite(Low Risk)
Oregon Grape(Low Risk)
Cinnamomum camphora(Unsafe)
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.