Melaleuca alternifolia is a small tree belonging to the myrtle family and native to Australia. It has a characteristic papery, shredded bark and grows white flowers during the summer. Its foliage conceals the glands from which the essential oil is extracted.

- Tea tree has a fresh and powerful herbal scent.
- It helps keep the scalp and skin feeling clean thanks to its purifying properties and its ability to help balance sebum production and soothe the look of irritation.
- Used in deodorants, tea tree powder helps absorb moisture and helps limit the growth of odour-causing bacteria.

You may have asked yourself the question: "Is tea tree tea?" Absolutely not. It is said that the plant was so named by the first British explorers who arrived in New South Wales, Australia, after observing Bundjalung people making infusions with the leaves. The Bundjalung people (indigenous to New South Wales) traditionally used tea tree leaves for various purposes, including wellness practices and general care.

Lush buys tea tree oil from Australia - which is not really a surprise as it’s the only place where you can get it!