Herb of the Month: Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Alternate names: Medicinal tea tree
Description: A shrub or small tree (up to 22 feet tall) with layered papery bark and pointed leaves. Small white flowers appear in spikes in spring. Native to New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. The oil is distilled from leaves and twigs.
Cultivation: Tea tree plants like moist soil, with some acid and lots of sun. Seeds are planted in spring, or cuttings in summer.
Culinary:
Medicinal: Tea tree is highly antiseptic against bacteria and fungi. It is not irritating to skin and so can be used directly, but is usually diluted. Said to be effective against head lice, on warts, athlete’s foot, insect bites and cold sores.
Other uses: Tea tree can be used in soaps, deodorants, mouthwashes and toilet waters. It is also effective in household cleaning products.
Sources: The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses, By Deni Bown.
Description: A shrub or small tree (up to 22 feet tall) with layered papery bark and pointed leaves. Small white flowers appear in spikes in spring. Native to New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. The oil is distilled from leaves and twigs.
Cultivation: Tea tree plants like moist soil, with some acid and lots of sun. Seeds are planted in spring, or cuttings in summer.
Culinary:
Medicinal: Tea tree is highly antiseptic against bacteria and fungi. It is not irritating to skin and so can be used directly, but is usually diluted. Said to be effective against head lice, on warts, athlete’s foot, insect bites and cold sores.
Other uses: Tea tree can be used in soaps, deodorants, mouthwashes and toilet waters. It is also effective in household cleaning products.
Sources: The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses, By Deni Bown.