Description

**Botanical name:** Melaleuca alternifolia

**Plant part:** Leaves and twigs

**INCI-Ingredients:** MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF/TWIG OIL

**CAS:** Not specified

**EINECS:** Not specified

**Manufacturing:** Steam distillation

**Special Characteristics:** Tea Tree essential oil is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a fresh herbal and eucalyptus scent. Its main constituents are terpinen-4-ol, γ-terpinene, and α-terpinene. The content of 1,8-cineole can be up to 15%, while other volatile sulfur-containing molecules are included in lower concentrations, such as isomeric pinenes, p-cymene, α-terpineol, terpinolene, and limonene.

**Applications:** The medicinal properties of Tea Tree essential oil have been extensively studied. It is considered effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi, thus used in natural medicine for skin irritations, acne, infections, insect bites, and upper respiratory complaints. It can be applied as an ointment, in bath oil, or for massage.

In this context, the cosmetics industry also harnesses these antiseptic properties and uses them in products for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Tea Tree essential oil is less commonly used in perfumery for earthy fragrances.

In aromatherapy, Tea Tree essential oil is supposed to provide clarity and motivation in cases of excessive demands, lethargy, and fears.

**Note:** Always use diluted in a carrier oil or other solvent.