Melaleuca

Often referred to as paperbark, honey-myrtles, punk, and tea trees, the Melaleuca tree is within the myrtle family. While native to Australia, the name Melaleuca comes from the two Greek words melas (meaning black) and leukos (meaning white) because of its black trunk and white stems or branches.  Many adore the Melaleuca’s fascinating outermost layers, featuring a spongy papery bark that peels in sheets. It is believed that the Melaleuca tree carries much importance for children, learning, and art, as its paper-like bark represents books, study, and creativity.  

Traditionally, Melaleuca was used by Australian Aboriginals within construction (for rain protection and warmth), bandages, seeping mats, cradles, wrapping food for underground cooking, as well as medicinal purposes (still used in many healing applications today). Within aromatherapy, Melaleuca oil is said to provide a calming and uplifting effect. The Melaleuca tree is still honored today within a variety of cultures and groups for its believed sacred, ritualistic, magical, and spiritual properties.  

Learn more about the Melaleuca at healthbenefitstimes.com by clicking here.