Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, has been scientifically investigated for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are relevant to the management of styes (hordeolum). Styes are typically caused by bacterial infection, most often Staphylococcus aureus, of the eyelid's sebaceous glands. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that tea tree oil exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, including efficacy against S. aureus. Moreover, clinical research has shown that tea tree oil is effective in reducing symptoms and bacterial load in related eyelid conditions, such as blepharitis and demodex mite infestations, which can be risk factors or co-factors for stye development.

In clinical practice, diluted tea tree oil formulations (typically 5% or less) are used in eyelid hygiene products and have been shown in small randomized controlled trials and case series to reduce ocular surface bacterial counts and improve symptoms of eyelid inflammation. However, direct evidence specifically for the treatment or prevention of styes is limited, and most studies focus on general eyelid hygiene or demodex-related issues. Safety is an important consideration, as undiluted tea tree oil can be irritating to the ocular surface. Nonetheless, the available scientific data do provide a rationale for its use in supporting stye management as an adjunct to conventional therapy, particularly for cases associated with poor eyelid hygiene or demodex infestation.

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