Abstract

Immunomodulatory effects of Melaleuca Alternifolia concentrate

Author(s): Ramrao Kendre

The inflammatory response is an important part of host defense. Cytokines are small proteins that interact with receptors and act as signaling molecules involved in the inflammatory pathway. Essential oils are volatile oils derived from aromatic plants and include tea tree oil, Melaleuca alternifolia Concentrate (MAC) is an extract obtained from essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia. MAC has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties and antioxidant properties. In vitro studies have investigated the immunomodulatory effects of MAC. The parameters studied were cytokine production and protein expression in murine and human macrophage -like myeloid leukemia cell lines. The modulation of cytokines by MAC can improve health and prevent infections. The in vitro studies have demonstrated the antimicrobial effects of MAC. Taken together, the immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects of MAC can play an important role as an immunostimulant for prevention of infections. Phase I studies have demonstrated the safety of MAC in humans.