Effectiveness of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Essential Oil and Jojoba Carrier Oil through Topical Application on the Relief of Allergies Caused by Aeroallergens

Abstract

Background: Allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide. Due to the cost and possible side effects of pharmacologic treatments, aromatherapy, an alternative method in relieving allergies was studied. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Jojoba Oil and 100% Tea Tree Essential Oil combination through topical application as an alternative method for relieving severity and frequency of allergic symptoms triggered by aeroallergens. Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test research design was used to determine whether the combination of Tea Tree and Jojoba Oil produced an effect to the respondents’ allergic signs and symptoms. A modified 3-part questionnaire was used to gather data from thirty (30) purposively selected college students. Results: It appeared that the combination oil when applied topically resulted to a reduction in the severity and frequency of the allergic symptoms; specifically watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose, nasal itching, sneezing, coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath and phlegm production. The observed alleviation of symptoms is deemed significant with P-values less than 0.05, except for the reduction in the frequency of wheezing (P-value=.101>0.05) and shortness of breath (P-value=.053>0.05) nonetheless. Conclusion: Hence, the combination oil composed of Tea Tree essential oil with 2% dilution and Jojoba carrier oil when applied topically to the hot spots of the body reduces allergic symptoms. Nurses and other public healthcare providers can consider aromatherapy in the treatment regimen of individuals who have allergies but prefers to manage it non-pharmacologically or does not have access to anti-allergy medications.