Tea tree is a plant native to Australia, scientifically known as Melaleuca alternifolia. This shrub belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is known for its leaves, which are rich in essential oils with ancient medicinal properties.
Tea tree owes its name to the navigator James Cook, who had a refreshing tea made from the leaves of the tree when he arrived in Australia with his crew. The natives also used these leaves to make poultices that they applied to wounds to treat infections.
Today, tea tree is a key ingredient in aromatherapy and cosmetics, thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly suitable for skin prone to blemishes, especially acne. It is remarkably effective on different types of blemishes: blackheads, microcysts, papules, pustules, etc. It also regulates sebum production and tightens enlarged pores.
Tea tree is found in the form of essential oil and hydrosol. Both are obtained by steam distillation of the plant's leaves. The composition of the essential oil, rich in terpinene-4-ol and molecules from the monoterpene family, , makes it a natural active ingredient capable of purifying the skin and promoting its regeneration without damaging it. Tea tree hydrosol also has purifying properties and is recognized as a skin tonic that revitalizes dull skin.