Tea oil is a cooking oil extracted from the seeds of the Camellia oleifera plant, which is native to China. It has a light flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for various cooking methods, including frying and sautéing. Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, tea oil is often praised for its health benefits. It contains oleic acid, which may help reduce bad cholesterol levels, and is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.