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Updated: Nov 16, 2025

A Method to Test the Efficacy of Handwashing for the Removal of Emerging Infectious Pathogens
Published on: June 7, 2017
Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil soap: a potential alternative for hand hygiene
Juliana Rizzo Gnatta1, Vanessa de Brito Poveda2, Maria Clara Padoveze3
1Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Av. Dr Eneas de Aguiar, 419 Cerqueira Cesar, Sao Paulo, 05403-000, Brazil. juliana.gnatta@gmail.com.
Abstract:
This study aimed to compare the antimicrobial action of three soaps for hand hygiene (HH): 2.0% Tea Tree Oil (TTO); 0.5% triclosan; 2.0% chlorhexidine, and to explore the perception of healthcare professionals about TTO. Two-step study: a quantitative, to determine the logarithmic reduction of Escherichia coli K12 colony-forming units before and after HH of 15 volunteers and quali-quantitative, through interviews with 23 health professionals. All the three products demonstrated antimicrobial action (a log10 reduction factor of 4.18 for TTO, 4.31 for triclosan, 3.89 for chlorhexidine, and 3.17 for reference soap). Professionals remarked the pleasant aroma and non-dryness of skin when using soap containing TTO.
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