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  Virucidal effects of tea tree oil quantity

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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 and livestock.

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened awareness of virus transmission and options to control or reduce transmission through social distancing, mask wearing, hand hygiene and regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces. Previous research has found tea tree oil has a broad spectrum of activity against pathogenic bacteria and a variety of fungi, yet its potential as an anti-viral agent was until now relatively uncharted.

Dr Padraig Strappe and his team of researchers at Curtin University in Western Australia took a multi-pronged approach to investigate the role tea tree oil could play managing viral infections and their transmission. While research into the virucidal activity of tea tree oil has already been conducted, Padraig and his team targeted the potential for novel formulations, such as nanoemulsions and vapour, to enhance its effectiveness.

The researchers tested the efficacy of tea tree oil against a range of viruses transmitted by the respiratory system or contaminated surfaces. In particular, they assessed and validated its anti-viral activity against coronaviruses and its impact as a disinfectant for contaminated surfaces. In doing so, they sought to understand differences in the susceptibility of viruses and the efficacy of different concentrations and deliver methods.

Improved knowledge of the anti-viral activity of tea tree oil opens doors to animal and human health applications for Australian product. This project has contributed to greater understanding of how natural products work to deactivate viruses. The findings offer insights into potential applications in both human and animal health settings.