Use of tea tree oil against buffalo flies in cattle

Abstract

This research project investigated the efficacy of the application of tea tree oil against buffalo flies on dairy cattle. The cattle industry needs to have alternatives to the presently used chemicals available to treat buffalo flies as the buffalo flies are developing resistance. Consumers are concerned about the environmental, worker health and chemical residues in food issues that are associated with the use of these chemicals. A natural product could assist the cattle industries to become more sustainable and responsible.
If a new market could be developed for the tea tree oil then this could help sustain this native tree industry. These types of new markets would help the tea tree oil industry enhance our Australia ‘green’ agricultural image.