Can you eat or drink Tea Tree Oil for indigestion purposes? If so how?
Editors Reply: Cindy, thanks for the question. I get asked this on a regular basis, so it's a good time to address the issue.
Tea Tree Oil should never be purposely ingested in measurable amounts. What I mean by that is the amount of tea tree oil in Tea Tree Oil mouthwash, or tea tree oil toothpaste, or toothpicks, or even cough drops is very minimal. The amount ingested is not harmful in those cases.
Tea Tree Oil is difficult for the liver and kidneys to process, so much so that in some animals, like small dogs, cats, and birds, even very small amounts may cause tremors, stupor, or even death.
For humans, fortunately the side effects of ingestion are rarely seen unless a tablespoon or more are ingested. Even so, the labels of most tea tree oil will clearly state "For external use only".
There's a video that comes to mind on YouTube of a fellow recommending the internal use of tea tree oil. It's entertaining at best, but otherwise just plain poor information. Take a look, it's an example of what NOT to do!
I hope this information is useful. If you are having indigestion regularly, go see a healthcare professional.
Nutritionally, mint tea, chamomile, lavender, and foods that contain active healthy bacteria cultures like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and pickles from companies like Bubbies, Kimchi, and foods you ferment yourself may all help with the proper intestinal balance to help digest your food and calm your stomach. Even the baking soda in your cabinet may offer some help.
