Tea tree oil does it actually work
Source: RM Barry: The Melaleuca Quick Reference Guide
Yes! and no...You see, as with many pimple and acne solutions, the proper soncentration of acne fighting agents is important.
In a study done at the Department of Dermatology at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Camperdown, NSW, Australia one hundred and twenty four patients were studied.
The patients were divided into two groups, 63 patients were treated with a 5% Benzyl Peroxide lotion and 61 patients with a 5% Tree Tea Oil gel.
Of those treated with benzyl peroxide 50(or 79%) of them reported some side effects versus 27(or 44%) of those treated with with Tea tree oil gel.
So, it appears that there are fewer side effects with tea tree oil solutions, although I've seen the best results from a product that we've used that has a combination of both substances.
Always look at what is available, and buy the best product that you can afford, there are several companies that have good products containing both tea tree oil and Benzyl Peroxide. A ggod product will also have some soothing agents and skin softeners so that you skin won't get too dried out.
Finally, as far as the cut/scratch goes, well in my opinion, there's not a better all natural treatment for the cut. It almost always goes on without stinging, it has great antibiotic properties, speeds healing, and soothes the soreness. It's a big plus for any medicine cabinet!
There are so many awesome uses for tea tree oil for all kinds of infections and household needs.