Melaleuca alternifolia

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For information on the supplement and personal care products company, see Melaleuca (company)

iMelaleuca alternifolia
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Myrtales Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Melaleuca Species: Melaleuca alternifolia Maiden & Betche ex Cheel

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as Narrow-leaved Paperbark, Narrow-leaved Tea-tree or Snow-in-summer, is a species of tree or tall shrub in the plant genus Melaleuca. Native to Australia, it occurs on the north coast and adjacent ranges of New South Wales.

Characteristic of the myrtle family Myrtaceae, it has essential oils. It is the most important species for commercial production of tea tree oil, a topical antibacterial and antifungal used in a range of products including antiseptics, deodorants, shampoos and soaps.

This plant is commonly used as a herbal lotion.

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