Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Botanical name
Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) Cheel
Botanical family
Myrtaceae
Part used
Leaves and young twigs.
Extraction method
Steam distillation.
Origin
Australia.
Aromatic profile
Fresh, herbal, medicinal, and slightly camphoraceous aroma, with intense, characteristic notes.
Main constituents
Composition may show slight natural variations between batches; terpinen-4-ol (40.63%) is the primary constituent, accompanied by γ-terpinene, α-terpinene, and other monoterpenes characteristic of the species.
The terpinen-4-ol content is a key quality indicator for Tea Tree Essential Oil and is widely used as a benchmark for its characterization.
Description
Obtained from the leaves of *Melaleuca alternifolia*—a tree native to Australia—this essential oil is among the most well-known and widely used in the world. Rich in terpinen-4-ol, it is distinguished by its intense, characteristic herbal aroma and is highly valued in aromatherapy and topical cosmetic formulations.
Traditionally prized for its versatility, it is incorporated into various aromatic blends and cosmetic products designed for daily skin and scalp care.
Traditional use in Aromatherapy
In aromatherapy literature, Tea Tree Essential Oil is traditionally used to foster a sense of purification, create a lighter atmosphere, and promote an aromatic experience of freshness and renewal. Its intense herbal aroma is widely employed in wellness practices, forming part of aromatic blends aimed at environmental comfort and self-care.
It is also appreciated for moments that foster a sense of clarity, organization, and balance, and is frequently used in diffusers across various settings. Cosmetic Use
After proper dilution in a vegetable oil, cream, or gel base, it can be incorporated into cosmetic formulations designed for skin, scalp, and foot care.
In cosmetics, Melaleuca is traditionally used in products for oily skin, scalp care, and formulations intended for hygiene and self-care. Its fresh aroma provides a pleasant sensation of cleanliness and well-being, making it widely used in soaps, shampoos, lotions, gels, and body oils.
It is also included in cosmetic formulations aimed at daily skin and scalp care, contributing to a feeling of freshness and balance after application.
• Contributes to a feeling of skin cleanliness
• Aids in the daily care of skin prone to oiliness
• Widely used in scalp care cosmetics
• Promotes a sensation of freshness on the skin
• Traditionally used in purifying cosmetic formulations
• Widely used in foot care products
• Contributes to skin comfort after cleansing
• Helps maintain a balanced skin appearance
Directions for Use
Cosmetic Use
Dilute approximately 5 drops in 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of vegetable oil, cream base, or gel base before application.
Personal Diffuser
Apply 1 to 4 drops.
Room Diffuser
Add 5 to 10 drops, or according to the device's capacity.
Precautions
• For external use only.
• Do not apply undiluted to the skin.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and sensitized skin.
• Individuals with sensitive skin should perform a sensitivity test before first use.
• Discontinue use in case of irritation.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and individuals with specific health conditions should seek guidance from a qualified professional before use.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from light and heat. Technical specifications
• INCI Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
• Common name: Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
• Appearance: Clear liquid.
• Color: Colorless to pale yellow; natural variations between batches may occur.
• Odor: Herbal, fresh, medicinal, and characteristic.
• Solubility: Insoluble in water. Soluble in alcohol and vegetable oils.
Content
10 mL