Virucidal effects of tea tree oil
Consumer demand for natural products such as Australian tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is driving researchers to investigate their efficacy against respiratory viruses in humans...
71 pages
Published: 16 Aug 2005
Author(s): Messager, S., Hammer, K.A., Riley, T.V.
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Describes results of experiments conducted to examine the antimicrobial activity of tea tree oil and tea tree oil products. Results were obtained by examining the in-vitro antimicrobial and sporicidal properties of tea tree oil-based skin formulations using European standard methods, and then to investigate their activity directly on human skin using an “ex-vivo” test as well as on volunteers in-vivo according to the European standard method. Several formulations containing tea tree oil met the requirements of the European standards for antiseptics. These formulations show potential in reducing hospital-acquired infections, such as those caused by S. aureus.