The heady scent of tea tree is one of the iconic smells of the Australian bush. And the essential oils derived from tea trees have been used as medicines, first by Indigenous people, then by colonists.

Today, many of us have a bottle of tea tree oil at home, or use shampoo or creams containing it. Tea tree oil is also a major export earner for Australia.

Now media reports suggest the European Union (EU) is concerned tea tree oil may affect people’s fertility and may ban imports.

Let’s see whether we really need to worry about any impact of tea tree oil on our reproductive system.

The many uses of tea tree oil

Leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia trees and other species of Melaleuca produce an essential oil that’s used medicinally and in a variety of toiletries and cosmetics. This oil is a complex mixture of nearly 100 aromatic compounds.

Tea tree oil has been used as an antiseptic since it became commercially available in the 1930s. It has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-parasite and antioxidant properties.

Laboratory experiments suggest it may also help reduce inflammation and enhance healing.

It’s used to treat acne, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and as a mouthwash to treat gingivitis (gum disease). However, the clinical evidence for these uses is not strong.

Tea tree oil is also used in cosmetics and toiletries, such as shower gel and face wash, in various........

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