Extremely aromatic small shrub from S. Africa. The essential oil is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial and used in cosmetics and lotions for external applications. The name 'African Tea Tree Oil' is beginning to stick, according to the internet. The leaves have been used to treat indigestion, diarrhea, coughs, colds, fevers, flu, bronchitis and flatulence. Leaf tea is used to wash sores, rashes and infected bites. Leaves are burned to drive insects and bedbugs out of homes. Spikes of small, light blue flowers.