The many species of Melaleuca trees are native to Australia. Melaleuca trees have been known as tea trees since the time when their leaves were first used to prepare an herbal tea. The essential oil from the Melaleuca alternifolia is used to treat a wide range of skin disorders such as acne, sunburn, dandruff, burns, insect bites, cuts and infected wounds. It is quickly absorbed by the skin and thought to speed healing.