Tea Tree: A Real Looker

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil is made by steam distilling the leaves of the plant. Tea Tree is the more common name for this essential oil, but you can also often find it labeled as Melaleuca. Although the leaves are what we use to make the oil, I think the flower of the plant looks pretty cool!

Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea Tree essential oil has a very sharp, herby-green, kind of medicinal scent. I couldn't imagine using it in a perfume, but who knows? Diffusing Tea Tree is a great way to take advantage of its therapeutic properties as it is an airborne anti-microbial. Try pairing Tea Tree with citrus oils for a fresh, uplifting scent that also helps cleanse the air.

Here is a diffuser blend I like to use with Tea Tree. This smells great and with the anti-microbial properties this blend has, it does a wonderful job of purifying the air.

Clean Air Diffuser Blend

3 drops of Tea Tree

2 drops of Lavender

2 drops of lemon

Powerhouse diffuser blend

Due to its anti-microbial and immune stimulant properties, Tea Tree is a great oil to use for a steam. Steams can be so helpful for nasal congestion. Tea Tree essential oil also has great anti-fungal properties, and can be nurturing for healthy nails and skin. Always make sure to dilute when using.