Melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia) or “Tea Tree” Essential Oil

Melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil, also known by its more common name “tea tree” has been esteemed by cultures around the world for ages. Melaleuca is comprised of over 92 different compounds.  Melaleuca is renowned for its cleansing effect of the skin.  The leaves of the Melaleuca tree were used by the Aborigines of Australia for centuries. They would crush the leaves and inhale the oil to promote feelings of clear breathing and apply the leaves directly to the skin for a cooling effect. Melaleuca is best known for its purifying properties. It can be used to cleanse and purify the skin and nails and to support a healthy complexion. Melaleuca can be used on surfaces throughout the home to protect against environmental threats. Melaleuca is frequently used on occasional skin irritations to soothe the skin. Diffusing Melaleuca will help purify and freshen the air. Taken internally, Melaleuca promotes healthy immune function*

PRIMARY BENEFITS

  • Cleansing and rejuvenating effect on the skin
  • Promotes healthy immune function*
  • Protects against environmental and seasonal threats*

USES

  • For occasional skin irritations, apply 1–2 drops onto affected area.
  • Add 1–2 drops to water, citrus drinks, or veggie caps to support healthy immune system function.*
  • Combine 1–2 drops with your facial cleanser for added cleansing properties, or apply to skin after shaving.
  • Apply to fingernails and toenails after showering to purify and keeps nails looking healthy
  • Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and use on surfaces to protect against environmental threats.
  • Add a couple drops to laundry detergent to get rid of any musty smells caused by poor ventilation.
  • Take Melaleuca essential oil in your pack next time to take the off beaten trail. Melaleuca is a great cleansing agent for occasional scrapes and other skin irritations.

AROMATIC DESCRIPTION

Herbaceous, camphoraceous, green, leathery

APPLICATION METHOD

To learn more about application methods and sensitivity, click here.

Adults

A – Aromatically T – Topically I – Internally

Children/Sensitive

A – Aromatically T – Topically I – Internally

Pregnant

A – Aromatically T – Topically I – Internally

EXTRACTION METHOD

Steam distillation

PLANT PART

Leaf

PRIMARY CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

Terpinen-4-ol, y-terpinene

PRECAUTIONS

Not all essential oils are created equal. Extraction method is critical to know. Some Melaleuca or “tea tree” is extracted via a chemical distillation process rather than steam distillation which can make its safety questionable and dangerous to use. Additionally, the volume of “tea tree” on the market exceeds the volume of available plant material required to produce it. Therefore, much of what is called “tea tree” oil is either highly diluted in a carrier oil, artificial, or mixed to include synthetics.  Consequently, not all melaleuca essential oil can be safely used as suggested here. Always test for skin sensitivity prior to widespread use and use on the feet when possible. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.  Always know the essential oil brand and test carefully. Read all labels and supplemental facts. Never use any essential oil in a way not recommended by its producer.

How Do You Get These Oils in Your Home?

To learn which brand of essential oils we trust and use and to receive a free essential oil sample and beginner’s guide, click here.