Manuka (Leptospermum scoparum) essential oil benefits
Manuka is a fragrant flowering shrub commonly known as New Zealand’s native Tea Tree. Its essential oil is a powerful disinfectant, antibacterial, and anti-fungal.
Native to New Zealand, Manuka is considered the New Zealand version of Tea Tree (which is native to Australia) with a sweeter, more citrus-like aroma. Maoris used Manuka leaves topically to heal cuts, wounds, and skin irritations. Thanks to its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, Manuka supports healthy respiratory and immune functions, especially during cold months. Very useful for natural recovery following illness and to boost the immune system after a long flight. Manuka can also be used to help soothe and protect sensitive skin but it is stronger than Kanuka, and therefore, it is advisable to do a skin patch test before any application.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Botanical Name: Leptospermum scoparium
Method of Extraction: Steam distillation from the leaves and twigs
Origin: New Zealand
Color: Pale yellow to dark yellow
Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, lemony, pungent
Note: top - middle
Blends well with: Lemon, Lavender, Lavender Spike, Pine, Myrtle, Rosemary, Marjoram, Peppermint, Chamomile, Tea tree, Clary sage, Eucalyptus, Fir, Kanuka, Sweet Orange
Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, anesthetic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, deodorant, expectorant, immune stimulant, nervine, sedative, vulnerary
Burn or diffuse 2-4 drops every 4-5 hours.
Skin disinfectant – adults – 2-3 drops to a teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil or diluted in water to fight feet infections and fungus
0 – 4 years old – use not recommended
4 – 10 years old – 1-2 drops to a teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil or diluted in water to fight feet infections and fungus
To disinfect skin rashes and irritations dilute 2-4 drops of Manuka oil every teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier or light body lotion.
Can be a skin irritant so it is highly advisable to skin patch test. Avoid during pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless under the supervision of a professional Aromatherapist. Use in low dilutions with children between 4 and 10 years old.
