Tea tree oil has demonstrated potentially useful
antimicrobial activity in vitro, and its potential as
an active ingredient in handwashing preparations
warrants further examination. In addition to its
antibacterial activity, the antifungal and antiviral
activity of tea tree oil also requires investigation.
When the full spectrum and extent of the antimicrobial
activity of tea tree oil are known, in vivo
work will be able to proceed on a sound basis.