Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) for Hair

The benefits and potential of tea tree oil (distilled from plantations of Melaleuca alternifolia) have been recognised for more than 70 years.

Tea tree is not to be confused with the plant that produces leaves used to make black, green and oolong tea. Tea tree is a small tree from which an oil is extracted that has been used as medicine by Aboriginal peoples for centuries.

The oil possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal properties. It also enhances rejuvenation and healing – so it's no wonder it's held in high regard as one of nature's wonders. Tea tree also boasts a plethora of benefits for your hair as the power of nature's gift hidden in this small tree will leave your locks feeling refreshed and weightless. The indigenous Bundjalung people of eastern Australia are believed to have used tea tree as a traditional medicine for many years in a variety of ways, including inhaling the oil from the crushed leaves to treat coughs and colds, applying the leaves to wounds, as a poultice as well as brewing an infusion of the leaves to make a tea to treat sore throats or to apply to the skin for minor wounds, abrasions, and insect bites and stings.

Tea tree is a small tree native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia, although today it is widely available – commercial use began all the way back in the 1920s.

The name 'tea tree' originated from the early explorers who used small trees to make tea, but the real secret of tea tree had been known by Aboriginal peoples for centuries. Discover the magic of tea tree with Herbal Essences Clarifying Tea Tree shampoos and conditioners made with natural plant extracts.