Uncontrolled, open-label, pilot study of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil solution in the decolonisation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus positive wounds and its influence on wound healing

Abstract

Many complementary and alternative products are used to treat wounds. The essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia, tea tree oil, has proven antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, may be useful in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) decolonisation regimens and is reputed to have 'wound-healing' properties, but more data are required to support these indications. The primary aim of this uncontrolled case series was to assess whether a tea tree oil solution used in a wound cleansing procedure could decolonise MRSA from acute and chronic wounds of mixed aetiology. The secondary aim was to determine if the tea tree oil solution influenced wound healing outcomes. Nineteen participants with wounds suspected of being colonised with MRSA were enrolled in a pilot study. Seven were subsequently shown not to have MRSA and were withdrawn from the study. As many as 11 of the remaining 12 participants were treated with a water-miscible tea tree oil (3·3%) solution applied as part of the wound cleansing regimen at each dressing change. Dressing changes were three times per week or daily as deemed necessary by the study nurse following assessment. One participant withdrew from the study before treatment. No participants were MRSA negative after treatment. After treatment had been implemented, 8 of the 11 treated wounds had begun to heal and reduced in size as measured by computer planimetry. Although this formulation and mode of delivery did not achieve the primary aim of the study, tea tree oil did not appear to inhibit healing and the majority of wounds reduced in size after treatment.

Skin Wound Healing and Phytomedicine: A Review

“…Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory features and is reputed to have wound renewal properties [35,36,37]. It has been recognized that cooling is a useful method to decrease tissue injury and increase wound healing.…”

Use of multiparameter flow cytometry to determine the effects of monoterpenoids and phenylpropanoids on membrane polarity and permeability in staphylococci and enterococci

“…More specifically, many volatile oils and individual components have antimicrobial activity, which forms the basis of their use in a range of areas including human medicine, animal health, food preservation and agriculture. Recent examples include the use of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil to treat chronic wounds [1], dietary essential oils as alternative feed additives in hens [2], and oregano (Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) essential oils to reduce bacterial loads in artificially contaminated feta cheese [3].…”

Wound Cleaning and Wound Healing

“…29 In addition to liquid cleansing agents, solids applied to the wound may be effective. For example, in a pilot study, the application of sugar subjectively improved wound healing, and in vitro evaluation showed reduced bacterial growth.…”