Description
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree native to Australia. Although Melaleuca alternifolia is known as the tea tree, it is not the same plant whose leaves are used to make black, green, and oolong tea.Tea tree oil has been used as a traditional medicine by the Aboriginal people of Australia for centuries to treat coughs and colds or apply it directly to the skin for healing.
You can buy tree oil essential oil 100% undiluted or neat. Diluted forms, ranging from 5–50% strength, are also available in products designed for the skin.Tea tree oil contains several compounds, including terpinen-4-ol, that can destroyTrusted Source certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi.Tea tree oil’s germ-fighting properties make it a valued natural remedy for treating bacterial and fungal skin conditions, preventing infection, and promoting healing.