Tea-Tree

(Melaleuca alternifolia)

SAFETY INFORMATION: Tea tree is a safe oil for home use, as long as it is diluted before application. This oil may cause some irritation for people with sensitive skin.

Family: Myrtaceae
Other Names: Narrow leaved paperbark tea tree, Ti tree, Ti trol, melasol

Known as a 'spicy' oil, it is a pale yellowy green or water white and has a warm, spicy, medicinal, nutmeg like scent. It blends well with lavadin, lavender, clary sage, rosemary, oakmoss, pine, cananga, geranium, marjoram, and spice oils, especially clove and nutmeg.

Actions and Uses

Air Freshener airborne germ killer	Breathing Problems Asthma, coughs, anti-viral
Colds/ Flu anti-viral, fever	Hair Treatment dandruff, greasy hair
Household Disinfectant	Infections fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, thrush
Insect Repellent	Skin Care acne, dry skin
Wounds cuts, blisters burns

Carrier Oils

Tradition and History

The tree was named by Captain Cook's crew. They brewed the leaves and drank as a tea alternative. Australian aborigines used it for healing. In World War II medics used it for it's powerful germicidal and antiseptic properties. Recently the oil has become popular for its ability to clear up the skin and the way it stimulates the immune system.

Extraction: Tea tree is a small tree or shrub that has needle like leaves with yellow or purplish flowers. The oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs by steam or water distillation.