Manuka Essential Oil: A Guide to Benefits, Uses and Side Effects

Manuka essential oil is derived from the manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand. The oil has a wide range of benefits, including being an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal agent. Manuka oil is also known for its ability to boost the immune system and promote healing.

Essential Oil Profile / Monograph

Botanical Name: Leptospermum scoparium

Common Names: Manuka, New Zealand Tea Tree

Plant Family: Myrtaceae

Countries of origin: New Zealand

Extraction Method: Steam distillation

Parts Used: Flowering tops and leaves

Essential Oil smell: camphoraceous, herbaceous, woody

Essential Oil Color: pale yellow to amber

Viscosity: Thin

Perfumery Note: Middle

Strength of Aroma: Strong

Blends Well With: Basil, bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cedarwood, chamomile, clary sage, clove bud, cypress, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, myrrh, nutmeg, rosemary, sandalwood

Therapeutic Properties: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, immunostimulant

Uses: acne, colds, flu, wounds, joint pain

Contraindications: There is no known interaction between Manuka oil and other drugs. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any essential oils. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid using Manuka essential oil. The oil can also cause skin irritation in some people, so it is always best to do a patch test before using it. If you have any medical conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using.

Side Effects: It is generally safe for most people when used properly. However, the oil can cause skin irritation in some people. If you experience any side effects, stop using the oil and consult with a healthcare professional.

Chemical Constituents with percentages:

terpinen-4-ol (up to 30%), α-terpineol (up to 15%), β-terpineol (up to 10%), 1,8-cineole (up to 7%), and α-terpinene (up to 5%). These chemicals give manuka oil its unique therapeutic properties.

What is Manuka?

Manuka is a tree that is native to New Zealand. The tree produces a yellow flowering shrub that is commonly used in the production of honey. The honey produced from the Manuka flowers has unique antibacterial properties.

Benefits

Manuka essential oil has many benefits due to its unique chemical composition. The oil is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal. Additionally, it can help to boost the immune system and promote healing.

Uses

Manuka essential oil has a wide range of benefits and uses. It can be used to help improve skin health, fight inflammation, boost the immune system, and even treat certain conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.

Historical use of Manuka as a herbal medicine

The Maori people of New Zealand have used Manuka for centuries as a herbal medicine. The tree was used to treat a wide variety of ailments, including colds, flu, and wounds.

Topical use

Manuka oil can be applied topically to the skin to help treat acne, cold sores, and other skin conditions. The oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to the skin.

Manuka essential oil benefits for skin

The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of Manuka oil make it beneficial for the skin. The oil can help to treat acne, cold sores, and other skin conditions.

“These results indicate that the potent antimicroorganism and anti-inflammation properties of kanuka and manuka essential oils make them strong candidates for use in treating infections and immune-related disease. The data confirm the potential use of kanuka and manuka extracts as pharmaceutical antibiotics, medical cosmetology agents, and food supplements.” [1]

Manuka essential oil benefits for hair

It can be used to help treat scalp conditions such as dandruff and psoriasis. The oil can also help to stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp.

For kids

It is generally safe for kids when used in small doses. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any essential oils on children.

For pets

It is generally safe for use on dogs and cats when diluted properly. However, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before using any essential oils on pets.

Aromatherapy

Manuka oil can be used in aromatherapy to help promote relaxation and ease stress. The oil can be diffused in an essential oil diffuser or added to a bath.

Diffuser blends for aromatherapy with Manuka Oil

1. Manuka and Lavender: This blend is calming and can help to promote sleep.

2. Manuka and Lemon: This blend is refreshing and can help to boost energy levels.

3. Manuka and Peppermint: This blend is invigorating and can help to improve focus.

4. Manuka and Rosemary: This blend is stimulating and can help to increase alertness.

5. Manuka and Tea Tree: This blend is antibacterial and can help to purify the air.

6. Manuka and Ylang Ylang: This blend is soothing and can help to reduce anxiety.

7. Manuka and Frankincense: This blend is grounding and can help to promote relaxation.

DIY recipes with Manuka Oil

Manuka Facial Cleanser

Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka oil with 1 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of honey. Use this mixture to cleanse your face.

Manuka Body Wash

Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka oil with 1 cup of liquid castile soap and 1 tablespoon of honey. Use this mixture to wash your body.

Manuka Room Spray

Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka oil with 1 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of witch hazel. Use this mixture to spray your room.

Manuka Linen Spray

Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka oil with 1 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of vodka. Use this mixture to spray your bed sheets and towels.

Manuka Massage Oil

Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka oil with 1 cup of carrier oil. Use this mixture to massage your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

References:

1. Investigations of kanuka and manuka essential oils for in vitro treatment of disease and cellular inflammation caused by infectious microorganisms