Manuka (botanically known as Leptospermum scoparium and sometimes known as ‘New Zealand Tea Tree’) is a highly medicinal plant with healing properties that were originally discovered and harnessed by the country’s indigenous Maori people, and later became of great importance to the country’s early European settlers.

Due to its concentrated potency, Manuka essential oil, which is extracted from Manuka leaves, is a wonderful alternative to the essential oil of Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia).  Some reports have even suggested that Manuka essential oil is 20 times more powerful than its Australian counterpart. 

Whether it is 20 times more powerful or not, Manuka essential oil is wonderful for fungal skin infections (eg. athlete’s foot, ringworm and nail fungus) and has excellent antibacterial properties which make it useful for acne spot treatment or a wonderful natural first aid remedy to cuts and scrapes.

To help treat sinus problems, respiratory illnesses and allergies, the Maori people used to (and intact tribal communities quite possibly still do) boil fresh Manuka leaves in water then inhale the vapors.  It was also typically used as a poultice – that is, freshly crushed Manuka leaves were wrapped around wounds or diseased skin to enhance healing and prevent infection.  In addition, Manuka shoots were consumed to treat dysentary, and a warm, pain-relieving infusion made from the leaves and bark was massaged into rheumatic joints and aching muscles.

Whether these traditional remedies were highly effective is difficult to confirm, however modern science has positively validated the potent healing properties of Manuka, in particular the constituents of its essential oil.

In fact, scientific analysis of organic (or wild harvested) Manuka essential oil has shown up to 30% concentration of potent anti-microbial constituents, testing active against a broad range of micro-organisms that cause infections of the skin. Manuka essential oil has also tested 15 times stronger than Australian Tea Tree oil against Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains.

For at home applications, some common uses for Manuka Essential Oil are:

Fungal infections (ringworm, athlete’s foot) - 3-4 drops of undiluted Manuka essential oil to affected area twice daily, using cotton tip.  Continue applying 1 week after symptoms clear.

Dandruff/itchy scalp - Mix in 5-8 drops of Manuka essential oil into normal amount of shampoo for 1 application.  Apply to scalp and leave on 5 minutes before thoroughly rinsing.

Acne Spot Treatment - 2-3 drops of undiluted Manuka essential oil on a cotton tip. Apply to acne blemish twice daily.

Cuts/Abrasions - 4-5 drops of undiluted Manuka oil to affected area, using cotton tip. Reduces healing time and helps prevent infection.

Insect Bites/Stings - 3-4 drops undiluted Manuka oil on cotton tip.  Apply to affected area to relieve itch and help reduce inflammation.

As with all essential oils, there are always some contraindications for Manuka.  If in doubt, always consult with a certified aromatherapy professional.  Manuka essential oil should be avoided in pregnancy and lacation due to its spasmolytic (muscle-relaxant) activity.

Originally posted 2009-11-23 11:50:02. Republished by Old Post Promoter

Related posts:

1. Essential Oils For Preventing And Treating Nail Fungus
2. Using Essential Oils on Acne: Tea Tree Oil and Emu Oil
3. Tea Tree Oil Wonders