Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) By Michel Sommerard
- Aromatika Magazine
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
Pg. 6-10 - 4-minute read
Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) is the most popular essential oil in aromatherapy worldwide. In France, it sells the most in pharmacies, followed by Lavender and Ravintsara. Already popular in the USA and Germany, it became known in France thanks to Dr. Daniel Pénoël, who introduced it to me after returning from Australia.
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is native to Australia, where its cultivation, properties, and uses were first studied. Part of the Myrtaceae family, it is related to Niaouli, Cajeput, clove, guava, and Eucalyptus. While the name “tea tree” is sometimes applied to other species like Rosalina, Manuka, or Kunzea, the genuine Tea tree is M. alternifolia—an evergreen tree with needle-like leaves and white flowers that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. Its antiseptic and antifungal properties were scientifically recognized in the 1920s, establishing its reputation as a safe and effective natural remedy.
Cultivating Tea tree outside Australia requires careful preparation. The author recounts planting Tea tree on a farm in Madagascar, sourcing high-quality seeds from Australia, and adapting planting techniques to local conditions. Through patience and careful care—including acclimatization, pruning, and manual harvesting—the trees thrived, producing abundant foliage and essential oil. Optimal harvest occurs in November–December, yielding high-quality oil with low cineole content, placing it among the best grade A oils.
Tea tree essential oil has a wide range of therapeutic uses. It is antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic, effective for skin issues, wounds, infections, parasites, and even gynaecological care. It can be applied directly to the skin, used in baths, massage oils, or diffused to purify the air and support family health. Its versatility extends to veterinary use and household cleaning, making it an essential oil for any home.
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