Mid-infrared spectroscopy for the rapid quantification of eucalyptus oil adulteration in Australian tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia).

Essential oil distilled from Melaleuca alternifolialeaves, commonly known as tea tree oil, is well known for its biological activity, principally its antimicrobial properties. However, many samples are adulterated with other, cheaper essential oils such as eucalyptus oil. Current methods of detecting such adulteration are costly and time-consuming, making them unsuitable for rapid authentication screening.