Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca oil, is a fragrant essential oil produced by steaming the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). Long before Western medicine, Aboriginal Australians used crushed leaves and leaf infusions to help with skin issues, suggesting early discovery of its practical effects. In later centuries, European naturalists and researchers became aware of the plant’s medicinal potential, leading to systematic study and eventual commercial distillation. Today, tea tree oil is commonly used in topical products for concerns like minor skin blemishes and fungal-related issues.