A primary constituent of tea tree oil,[1] it is obtained as an extract from the leaves, branches, and bark of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel.

[2][3][4] Despite considerable basic and preliminary clinical research of terpinen-4-ol and tea tree oil, its biological properties and potential for clinical uses have not been established as of 2019.

[2] It may be a factor in the contact dermatitis of tea tree oil when used topically.

[2][3] Terpinen-4-ol occurs in Juniperus communis and is thought to be the reason why this wood is highly resistant to rot.

[citation needed] Terpinen-4-ol can be synthesized from terpinolene (1) by photooxidation, reduction of the resulting hydroperoxide (2), and selective hydrogenation of the terminal double bond in 3.