EU to ban the use of Tea Tree oil in cosmetics!
History
Tea tree has a long history of use by generations of Native people of Australia for its medicinal properties. By utilising the oils from crushed leaves, it was traditionally used as an antiseptic for skin wounds and as a treatment for various ailments such as sore throats, coughs, and fevers.
Commercial tea tree oil (TTO) production began in Australia in the 1920s, after chemist Arthur Penfold recognised its potent qualities. TTO was found to be significantly stronger than a commonly used disinfectant at the time, and possessed antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. TTO’s effectiveness as a disinfectant led to its widespread inclusion in the first aid kits of ANZAC soldiers and sailors deployed to subtropical regions during WWII. Those involved in its production were exempted from military service due to its perceived importance.
Current Uses
Its history of use by the Native peoples of Australia and its subsequent commercial production highlights its significance as a natural remedy with valuable medicinal properties. In more recent years, TTO has been used by billions of people worldwide for several decades. The most common utilisation is in aromatherapy and popular cosmetic products, including face wipes, shampoos and shower gels. Additionally, due to its antibacterial properties, TTO is often an ingredient in cleaning products within medical settings.
Reclassification
In November 2023, the European Chemicals Agency’s (ECHA) committee for Risk Assessment recommended classifying TTO as a category 1B reproductive toxin, indicating it may damage fertility and development. If the category 1B classification proceeds, European manufacturers of cosmetics containing TTO could face severe restrictions and a potential ban. The classification is based on animal studies showing adverse effects of Gamma Terpinene (found in TTO) on male reproductive systems in rats, but there is no evidence of similar effects in humans from topical use.
The Australian Tea Tree Industry Association (ATTIA) has sprung into action to support the industry through its biggest regulatory challenge. Similarly, Khush Ingredients are supporting the British Essential Oils Association (BEOA) and European Federation of Essential Oils (EFEO) efforts to dispute this reclassification using scientific evidence, indicating that tea tree has been used by humans for centuries with no adverse health effects.
Implications
As a result of this, the global production of TTO is slowing, potentially leading to a scarcity of material and price hike expected by 2025.
If the reclassification does occur, brands may be forced to reformulate their products, therefore alternatives must be considered to avoid disruption in the industry. Alternatives to Tea Tree are all very different regarding pricing and aroma, the most comparable in terms of properties include Thyme, Rosemary and Hemp essential oils.
