Melaleuca alternifolia has purifying, cleansing, antiseptic and energizing properties.  It has a warm, fresh, spicy, camphorous, medicinal scent.  The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and twigs.  Tea tree oil blends well with clove, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, mandarin, orange, rosemary, sage and thyme.  Externally is is used as a gel or lotion for common acne, skin infections, insect bites and as a paint for fungal nail infections.  Exposure to tea tree oil may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.  Generally it non-irritating and non-corrosive.  To minimise the chances of side effects always store the oil protected from light, air and heat.