Consumers could benefit if they purchase natural hair care products that contain tea tree oil, according to new research.

Scientists at James Cook University in Queensland, Australia carried out a study to see whether natural ingredients or chemicals were most effective at treating head lice.

Tea tree oil yielded better results than permethrin, achieving a 90 per cent kill rate in just three hours.

Dr Anthony Cunliffe said this could be partly because head lice are becoming increasingly resistant to common chemical treatments.

"Tea tree oil has been used as an effective medicine by Aboriginals for thousands of years," he commented.

"Unlike insecticidal chemicals, it doesn't leave toxic residue on the scalp or hair."

He added that natural hair care products are proving to be increasingly popular with parents who want to use a gentle and chemical-free treatment on their children.

The Department of Health has advised that weekly hair washing and combing sessions can be a good opportunity to detect head lice and arrange treatment if necessary.