Manuka essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and twigs of a small tree which is native to New Zealand. It is grown both in the North and South Islands, but the type from the East Cape area of the North Island has higher levels of the chemical constituents which give it a stronger anti-microbial activity.
Also known as New Zealand Tea Tree, Manuka essential oil is less drying than Tea Tree, and has a clear golden-yellow colour and a very distinct sweet, herbal, spicy aroma which has an unmistakable warmth.
The main actions of Manuka are as an analgesic, anti-microbial (anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral), diaphoretic, emollient, insecticidal, nervine and vulnerary * See below for meanings.
Historically, the leaves of the Manuka tree were used by the early Maori topically for wounds, cuts, sores and skin diseases. Manuka essential oil has been used extensively in New Zealand for it's anti-microbial properties. Active Manuka honey is also well reputed therapeutically, especially for helping with slow to heal ulcers and wound healing.
Manuka is healing and gentle for the skin and an effective anti-microbial, active against the antibiotic resistant strain of staphylococcus aureas. It is recommended for treating ringworm, athlete's foot and other fungal and bacterial infections, acne, boils, stubborn ulcers and wounds, cuts & abrasions, dermatitis and psoriasis. Manuka is an excellent insecticidal, and is also very beneficial as a treatment for insect bites due to its ability to soothe irritation and promote wound healing. For dryness, cracked skin or wounds mix 50/50 with Lavender True and apply 1 neat drop straight onto the affected area, or emulsify 3 drops into a bowl of warm water and soak hands or feet.
Manuka essential oil is extremely helpful for the treatment of sore throats, colds, flus, coughs and fevers due to its ability to help to kill bacteria, clear phlegm and ease dryness, pain and irritation in the throat. It is beneficial for all types of respiratory tract infection, including bronchitis and sinus infections. It combines well with Eucalyptus, Lemon & Lavender for any of these, and Peppermint can be added to help clear phlegm from the upper and lower respiratory systems for colds, sinusitis and bronchitis, and soothe sore throats.
It also has a good analgesic effect, helping with tension in tight muscles, and those feeling sensitive to the touch, so it is useful for the treatment of muscular aches and pains, especially when associated with colds and flus. It also helps with muscle-wasting diseases such as muscular dystrophy.
Manuka essential oil is beneficial with infections in the reproductive system and urinary tract, making it helpful for thrush and bladder infections.
It soothes, nurtures and balances the nervous system. It encourages self worth and reassures.
Manuka is a protective oil similar to myrrh and cedarwood, and helps to smoothe old psychic scars. It's scent is suited to gentle, sensitive types who tend to have sensitive skin or frequent digestive upsets.
As a Kiwi with a particular interest in this oil, I have used it a lot, finding it especially useful for any/all infections, colds, flus, sore throats and cuts, scrapes, cracks and wounds. It can take some adjusting to the distinctive fragrance, but it is well worth perservering and quite nice when blended well with other oils.
Manuka essential oil blends well with wood, citrus, floral and other anti-microbial oils, including Kanuka, and Lavender.
Manuka has no known contraindications, but as with all essential oils, use with care.
For free qualified advice on how to use it, email info@GalaxyAromatherapy.com.
Always take care when choosing your essential oils. Look for botanical names and expiry dates on the label. They should come in dark coloured glass bottles to protect them, and have dripulator tops. Following these guidelines will help to ensure you're buying good quality, pure essential oils.
Terms:
analgesic - relieves or diminishes pain
antimicrobial - resists or destroys pathogens
diaphoretic - promotes perspiration
emollient - an agent used externally to soothe and soften the skin
nervine - strengthens the nerves and nervous system
insecticidal - kills insects
vulnerary - prevents tissue degeneration and promotes of wounds
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