| abstract |
The invention relates to the use of a rectified essential oil derived from Melaleuca type terpinene-4-ol (eg Melaleuca alternifolia, Melaleuca linariifolia, Melaleuca dissitiflora). The rectified essential oil is preferably obtained by distillation under reduced pressure from an essential oil of Melaleuca type terpinene-4-ol which is prepared by hydrodistillation or by steam distillation of the foliage and terminal branches of Melaleuca . This rectified essential oil is free of bothersome substances poorly tolerated by the skin and substances of overly pronounced odors which are present in non-rectified essential oils of Melaleuca type terpinene-4-ol. The sum of the levels of limonene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene and 1,8-cineole in the rectified essential oil does not exceed 0.5%. The level of terpinene-4-ol in the rectified essential oil is not less than 60%. This rectified essential oil of Melaleuca is used in cosmetic or pharmaceutical or food compositions for its antiseptic properties and its preservative effects with regard to bacteria, yeasts and molds. Its antiseptic power is superior to the essential oils of Melaleuca type terpinene-4-ol not rectified. |