Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Steam-distilled essential oil from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, Tea Tree, the Australian native plant whose oil has become one of the most-studied antimicrobial essential oils worldwide. Tea Tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, the primary studied compound for its antimicrobial effects, along with substantial 1,8-cineole and other terpenes.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Melaleuca alternifolia

Plant part

Leaves

Native region

Coastal Australia (New South Wales and Queensland)

Primary compounds

Terpinen-4-ol (30-40%), 1,8-cineole, gamma-terpinene

Aromatic character

Sharp, medicinal, herbaceous, slightly camphoraceous

Common uses

Topical antimicrobial, acne preparations, hair/scalp blends, cleaning

What is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea Tree is a small tree native to coastal New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. Indigenous Australian Aboriginal use of tea tree leaves spans thousands of years; the modern Western use began in the 1920s when Australian chemist Arthur Penfold researched the oil's antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil is now one of the most-studied essential oils in modern pharmacological research and is widely used in topical antimicrobial preparations, acne products, and cleaning formulations.

Important Safety Information

Tea tree oil is for topical use only - NEVER ingest. Internal consumption can cause serious neurological effects (drowsiness, confusion, loss of muscle control). Even small amounts (a teaspoon or less) have caused poisoning. Keep tightly capped, out of reach of children. Even for topical use: skin sensitization can develop with repeated use, particularly when used undiluted; some users tolerate undiluted application to small areas (such as spot treatment for a single pimple), but most applications benefit from carrier oil dilution. Avoid in pets - particularly toxic to cats and dogs.

How to Use Tea Tree Essential Oil

Topical spot treatment: 1 drop diluted in carrier oil applied to a single pimple, minor skin issue, or insect bite (some users tolerate undiluted; patch test). Topical preparations: dilute to 1-5% in carrier oil for broader skin applications. Hair/scalp blends: 5-10 drops per 1 oz of shampoo or carrier oil for scalp issues. Cleaning preparations: a few drops in natural cleaning solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tea Tree oil used for?
Topical antimicrobial applications, acne spot treatment, hair/scalp preparations, and cleaning.

Can I take it internally?
NEVER. Internal consumption can cause serious neurological effects.

Can I use it on my face?
Yes, with proper dilution; some users tolerate undiluted spot treatment for individual pimples.

Is it safe for pets?
Particularly toxic to cats and dogs. Avoid use around pets.

What is terpinen-4-ol?
The primary antimicrobial compound in tea tree oil; the focus of much modern research.

Why was it called "Tea Tree"?
British colonists in Australia used the leaves to brew a tea-like beverage; the name has nothing to do with Camellia sinensis (the actual tea plant).

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.