This article takes a closer look at the use of tea tree oil for yeast infection.

Does Tea Tree Oil Work for Yeast Infections?

The plant compounds within tea tree oil (mainlyterpinen-4-ol) have shown potent activity against drug-resistant strains of candida.

Closeup woman dropping essential oil on her hand

Doucefleur / Getty Images

Tea tree oils efficacy has not been studied in humans with vaginal candidiasis.

Some suppositories are meant to be used twice per day for up to 12 days.

Never take a stab at make your own suppository.

you could check the tea tree oil bottle label for the word fragrance to distinguish between the two.

Essential oils are not risk-free.

Lack of regulation also means there is no standard for how to safely use essential oils.

Douching disrupts the vagina’s natural flora, which can make it difficult to fend off an infection.

It can also spread the infection into the upper genital tract.

Most can be found over-the-counter (OTC) without the need for a prescription.

Tea tree oil should never be orally ingested.

Your healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis and offer treatment advice.

Tea tree oil suppositories are a popular natural alternative to over-the-counter medications for yeast infections.

There is a low risk of side effects, although irritation or discomfort at the insertion site may occur.

Note that tea tree oil should never be ingested.

Contact your healthcare provider if the yeast infection does not resolve within the standard treatment time.

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Mount Sinai.Vaginal yeast infection.

Bayview Pharmacy.Tea tree oil 16 mg suppository.

2023 Apr;37(4):1309-1318. doi:10.1002/ptr.7687