Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil that is extracted from the leaves of the tea tree plant (Melaleuca alternifolia). The tea tree plant is native to Australia, and tea tree oil has been used for centuries by indigenous populations for its medicinal properties.  In Ayurvedic medicine, tea tree oil is used to treat skin conditions, respiratory infections, and other ailments. It is believed to have antiseptic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.