Melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil, also known as tea tree oil, is an essential oil distilled from the leaves of the native Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. It has been used for almost 100 years for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory actions. Here are some details, positive and negative aspects, and ingredients or materials related to this product:

Details:

• Melaleuca alternifolia leaf oil is the oil distilled from the leaves of the tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia.
• Tea tree oil is a very complex chemical mixture consisting of about 100 components, the major ones being terpinen-4-ol (40%), γ-Terpinene (23%) and α-Terpinene (10%) .
• Tea tree oil is incorporated as the active ingredient in many topical formulations used to treat cutaneous infections.

Positive aspects:

• Tea tree oil possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
• It has been used for a number of conditions, including acne, athlete’s foot, contact dermatitis, head lice, and dandruff.
• Tea tree oil has been shown to be effective in treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
• It is a natural alternative to synthetic chemicals.

Negative aspects:

• Tea tree oil should never be swallowed.
• Consistent use of antibiotics, including low-level doses of tea tree oil, may contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Topical use of products containing lavender oil or tea tree oil has been associated with enlarged breast tissue in prepubescent boys.

Ingredients or materials:

• Terpinen-4-ol (40%)
• γ-Terpinene (23%)
• α-Terpinene (10%)