What is tea tree oil?

The Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a member of the Myrtaceae family and is an indigenous species to Northern New South Wales, Australia. The oil is found within the cells of the leaves, and as the Tea Tree is extremely fast-growing it is constantly renewable, ensuring that no trees are harmed or destroyed.

The history of tea tree oil

Tea Tree Oil was used as a general antiseptic by the aborigine tribes for thousands of years. stories were told of a magical lagoon into which tea tree leaves had fallen, where the local tribe bathed in the naturally created bath.

Famous British explorer Captain Cook is held as the man responsible for the name 'tea tree'. In 1770 when he and his men landed at Botany Bay, Cook brewed the leaves of the tree for his men to drink to prevent scurvy.

As early as 1923, clinical trials in Australia began to provide scientific evidence for tea tree's antiseptic and bactericidal properties. Its importance made it standard issue for the soldiers in the Australian Army during World War II.

Nowadays you will find that virtually every Australian household has a bottle of tea tree oil, with recent clinical trials confirming the efficacy of tea tree oil's anti fungal, antiseptic, germicidal and anti-bacterial properties providing top to toe antiseptic skin care. Additionally, the antiseptic benefits of the oil allow its use as a natural cleaner and disinfectant in the household environment.