33 Across

NYT Daily • August 26, 2025

Source of a certain essential oil

Answer:

TEATREE

Hint:

This Australian plant’s oil is a go-to for soothing skin irritations naturally.

Explanation:

This clue points to "TEATREE," a plant known for its essential oil with antiseptic and healing properties. The term is straightforward—no wordplay here—just a direct reference to the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), widely used in aromatherapy and skincare. If you’ve seen "tea tree oil" on product labels, this is the plant it comes from. The answer fits because it’s the common name for that oil’s natural source.

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