Tea Tree Oil - Benefits and Uses

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the tea tree plant, Melaleuca alternifolia. It has a fresh, medicinal scent and is known for its antimicrobial properties.

Tea Tree Oil FAQ

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What is tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil with a fresh, camphoraceous odor and a colour that ranges from pale yellow to nearly colourless and clear. It is derived from the leaves of the tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia, native to southeast Queensland and the northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia.

Where does tea tree oil come from?

Tea tree oil was first extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia in Australia, and this species remains the most important commercially. In the 1970s and 1980s, commercial plantations began to produce large quantities of tea tree oil from M. alternifolia. Many of these plantations are located in New South Wales.

What is tea tree essential oil used for?

When they arrived on the swampy south-east Australian (its native country) coast in the 18 th century, these thirsty seadogs used the leaves of the tea tree to make a tea with a nutmeg aroma. Nowadays, tea tree essential oil is used for all sorts of things, including, skin problems and dandruff.

What are the benefits of tea tree oil?

These include antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil distilled from the leaves of the native Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. In recent decades, its popularity has grown in other areas of the world as an alternative and complementary treatment.