Tea Tree Oil: Uses and Benefits

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree and is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a fresh, camphoraceous scent and is commonly used in skincare and haircare products.
Category
Essential Oil
Where to get
Available in health food stores and online beauty retailers.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Tea Tree Oil FAQ


Image credit: walmart.com

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.

Tea Tree Oil References

If you want to know more about Tea Tree Oil, consider exploring links below:

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