Tea tree oil is an ancient remedy whose remarkable healing powers have been known to the Aboriginal people for millennia.

As far as European culture is concerned, tea tree was discovered by circumnavigator Captain James Cook. His English crew, thoroughly spoilt in their choice of teas, concocted a zesty brew using the aromatic tea tree leaves. Botanist Sir Joseph Banks, who accompanied Thomas Cook, carried out an enthusiastic study on the effects of the oil, which was used by the indigenous people. He was soon using this oil to treat sick sailors.