Herb Of The Month: Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia)

Tea tree oil is a very popular product in health food stores, very handy for its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial effect, while being safe for topical use. Sometimes athlete’s foot and toenail fungus will respond better to repeated applications of tea tree oil than with any other application.

The name “tea tree” gives an incorrect impression. Actually the Australian aboriginal people call it “ti tree,” hence the name. It is only known to grow in Australia, although a few similar species grow in Indonesia and Malaysia also. Another reason that it is known as “tea tree” is because the fallen leaves in nearby streams turn the water a tea shade of brown, although this brew is not actually suitable for drinking. The oil is of medicinal effect and practical use.