Otomi Tea Tree Oil for Managing Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

Otomi Tea Tree Oil and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It causes damage to the protective covering surrounding nerve fibers, called myelin, leading to communication problems between the brain and body. While there is no known cure yet, various treatments aim to manage MS symptoms and slow the disease progression.

Essential oils like otomi tea tree oil are sometimes used as complementary therapies to help with MS symptoms. Otomi tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Bursera microphylla tree, native to Valle de Bravo in Mexico. This aromatic oil has many purported medicinal uses, but can it really help manage MS?

Otomi Tea Tree Oil Properties

Otomi tea tree essential oil contains various active compounds that may contribute to its therapeutic effects. These include:

• Terpinen-4-ol: Has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties
• -Pinene: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent
• Limonene: Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities

These anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components may help relieve certain MS symptoms associated with nerve inflammation and damage.

Using Oils to Manage MS Symptoms

There is growing interest around using plant-based complementary medicine like essential oils to manage troublesome MS symptoms. Some benefits may include:

Pain Relief

Nerve pain and muscle spasms are common with MS. Applying diluted otomi tea tree oil in a carrier oil may have an analgesic effect to relieve neuropathic pain.

Reducing Fatigue

MS fatigue significantly affects quality of life. Inhaling soothing essential oils like otomi tea tree oil may help stimulate the mind, improve mood, and reduce perceptions of fatigue.

Easing Bladder Dysfunction

Bladder problems are estimated to occur in up to 80% of people with MS. Some research indicates tea tree oil can combat bacteria associated with urinary tract infections that contribute to bladder dysfunction.

Lessening Muscle Stiffness

Essential oil massages may improve circulation and loosen tense muscles that contribute to spasticity and stiffness in MS patients.

Is Otomi Tea Tree Oil Safe for MS?

When used topically in proper dilutions, otomi tea tree essential oil is generally safe. However, ingesting tea tree oil is not recommended as it can be toxic if swallowed.

As with any complementary therapy, check with your neurologist before using essential oils for MS support. Watch closely for any sensitivities or worsening of symptoms after use.

How to Dilute Oils Properly

It's crucial to mix essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to skin. Carrier oils help disperse and dilute concentrated essential oils to prevent irritation. Good options include:

• Sweet almond oil
• Coconut oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Jojoba oil

As a general rule, essential oils should be diluted at a 3-6% solution for adult topical use. For a 3% blend, mix 3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil (roughly 100 drops).

Methods for Using Otomi Tea Tree Oil

If willing to experiment under medical guidance, otomi tea tree oil can be used:

• Via inhalation through a diffuser
• In massage oil blends for rubbing affected muscles
• In the bath for absorption through the skin
• Via direct localized application for symptom relief

Conduct a skin patch test before wider use to check for allergic reactions. Discontinue use if any discomfort, rash or irritation occurs.

Research on Essential Oils and MS

Small early research provides tentative support for using essential oils like otomi tea tree oil as an adjunct to standard MS treatment. However, much larger rigorous studies are still needed.

Improving MS-Related Bladder Problems

In one Iranian study, taking peppermint oil capsules significantly improved urinary symptoms in MS patients over a 3-month period without adverse effects.

Managing MS Pain and Muscle Spasms

One study explored using diluted thyme essential oil massages to treat MS spasticity symptoms. Results showed improvement in muscle spasms, pain and other symptoms, suggesting anti-inflammatory effects.

Supporting Psychosocial Health

Smelling rose otto essential oil had a positive influence on emotions, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in an Iranian MS study. This suggests aromatherapy's effects on mood could support MS patients' mental health.

Other Complementary Health Approaches for MS

While clinical evidence on essential oils for MS requires significant expansion, experts agree that various integrative health therapies may benefit patients under medical guidance. Additional complementary approaches may include:

MS Diet Modifications

Adjusting dietary intake by reducing inflammatory foods and increasing anti-inflammatory foods may help manage MS symptoms.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can worsen MS progression. Relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga help stabilize the nervous system and reduce perceptions of stress.

Exercise and Physical Therapy

Staying active via exercise programs tailored for MS limitations may help retain mobility and flexibility to better manage symptoms.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine approach involves strategically placing thin needles into specific body points. Acupuncture may help relieve MS fatigue, pain, and bladder dysfunction.

The Takeaway

Essential oils like otomi tea tree oil show promise for providing MS patients complementary support for better coping with irritating symptoms. Always check with your healthcare providers first before using essential oils.

While early research provides hope, much more expansive research is critically needed to validate efficacy and safety. MS patients should view essential oils as adjuncts to complement prescribed treatment plans rather than primary solutions.

However, when used cautiously under medical guidance, oils like otomi tea tree may aid with symptom management to help support wellbeing and quality of life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.