Research Organizations and Schools
There are several schools and research organizations that are either partially or wholly committed to the development of tea tree oil.
Among them are the University of Western Australia (UWA) , the Australian Tea Tree Industry Association (ATTIA) , and the Australian Government Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC).
In the United States, the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University has done some studies on Tea Tree Oil also. This is interesting, since Linus Pauling corresponded with A.R. Penfold in August of 1939 while at UC Berkeley in California. According to the website at the University of Western Australia, they have been investigating the uses and benefits of tea tree oil since the early 1990’s. I quote from them…
“The primary aim of the group is to investigate and characterise the medicinal properties of tea tree oil, in particular the antimicrobial properties. So far the group has shown that tea tree oil has broad-spectrum in vitro antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activity. Laboratory studies are ongoing and some clinical work has also begun. These studies are critical if tea tree oil is to be accepted as a topical antimicrobial agent.”
The Government of Australia’s Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation has been set up to focus on new and emerging industries as a means of diversification of rural enterprises in Australia, foster the development of new industries, manage research and development monies, and to develop programs to address industry specific needs in rural Australia. According to their website,
Our vision: A more profitable, dynamic and sustainable rural sector. Our mission: To maximize the knowledge outcomes from our R&D investments for Australian industries and government in: new rural industries established rural industries national rural issues. Finally, the Australian Tea Tree Industry Association tells us that they exist because as stated on their website,
ATTIA Ltd is the peak representative
organisation for the Australian tea tree industry.
It works to promote the interests of Australian tea tree oil producers, exporters and manufacturers.
In doing so ATTIA aims to develop a stable, cohesive and internationally competitive tea tree oil industry.
Membership of ATTIA is open to all Australian tea tree industry participants.
Our services include: support and advocacy in dealing with government and regulatory agencies, research and development groups and the media leadership and representation in the formulation of overall industry strategy generic industry promotion at national and international levels the collection and compilation of market data to inform all sectors of factors influencing demand and supply.
ATTIA's board of directors is comprised of individuals who bring to their role a diversity of skills and experience. This ensures a comprehensive skill-set that can best represent our members.
As in the early days of Tea Tree Oil, there are researchers working to develop uses, define the abilities, and supplement the knowledge available regarding tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a valuable asset to any home or business, especially in the first aid kit or medicine cabinet. As study continues and as uses are found, it’s hopeful that many more exciting products and applications will be found.
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