Latin Name : Melaleuca Alternifolia.Part of Plant Used : Leaves & TwigsSource : AustraliaExtraction Method : Steam DistillationTea tree   essential oil is the concentrated liquid compounds steam distilled from the leaves of the tree Melaleuca alternifolia, which is native to the northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia. The oil is claimed to have valuable antiseptic and anti-fungal properties due to constituents called terpenoids, and is used in many personal care products and medicines today.Tea Tree Essential Oil is said to be good for relieving   congestion,cold, cough and flu. It has been used to   heal acne, fungal infections, dandruff, vaginal   infections, haemorrhoids, athlete's foot, and is   believed to soothe aching muscles and joint injuries.   When added to bath water it helps   control bacteria.   Tea tree oil is not to be taken internally. It is   usually used only on adults and must be kept away  from children and pets. Don't use it if you're pregnant or  lactating.The tea tree has been known for its medicinal properties since ancient times in eastern Australia. The Australian aborigines are known to have been using the crushed leaves to heal cuts, burns, sores, and infections for hundreds of years. They inhaled the oils from the crushed leaves to relieve coughs and colds. They   sprinkled this oil on wounds and applied a poultice on it. They infused the leaves and made tea to soothe sore throats. It was between 1920 and 1930 that the essential oil of this tree began to be known and used for its antimicrobial properties in Europe.