Cajeput Essential Oil Products

Name: Cajeput/Cajuput, Melaleuca leucadendron

The intense, penetrating effects combined with a distinctive poignant scent culminates in this uniquely powerful oil.

Essential information: Stimulating and refreshing, clearing and balancing for the mind, with a myriad of physical and emotional healing properties and additional uses, Cajeput is an essential addition to any holistic medicine cabinet.

Description of aroma: Penetrating, sweetly spicy yet pungent and herbaceous. Also described as a camphorous aroma with a fruity note. it does smell slightly medicinal, reminiscent of eucalyptus to which it is related.

Ruling planet: None

Properties beneficial to the mind, emotions and spirit: This stimulating, refreshing oil can help clear your thoughts, remove drowsiness and irritability, improve concentration and help put your mind and body back into balance.

Of interest: The tree grows in tropical zones of every continent. In Malay, 'Caju-pute' means white tree, and cajeput oil is often called white tea tree, or the American cousin of tea tree. In Malaya, China and India - where it was called Kayaputi - it has long been revered for its medicinal properties and used as a household medication, an ingredient for cooking, in perfumes and cosmetics and even a treatment against cholera. Cajeput oil is the main ingredient in Olbas oil, a commercial inhalant/decongestant.

Properties beneficial to the physical body: Considered an excellent antiseptic, useful for urinary and respiratory disorders, and with its antifungal properties it is especially useful for skin diseases. It has a cooling influence, and promotes sweating to release toxins. Its marvelous pain-reliving properties provide relief for numerous muscle and joint problems. It is also very soothing for the intestinal tract, and is said to benefit pulmonary disease. Interestingly it is believed to imitate the hormone estrogen, and may ease menstrual and menopause related conditions.

Scentsual blending suggestions: Anjelica, bergamot, birch, cardamom, clove, eucalyptus, geranium, immortelle, juniper, lavender, myrtle, niaouli, nutmeg, rose, rosewood and thyme all blend beautifully with Cajeput.

Alternative suggestions for use: Cajeput is renowned as an antidote for head lice and insect bites, (it's the best immediate first aid for ant bites) and if pets are rubbed with this oil, fleas make a rapid exit. Use in a room spray to ward off insects and bed bugs.

Essential safety precautions: May cause irritation to sensitive skin and mucus membranes, so use sparingly, even when diluted. For specific use on a sensitive skin, an ideal oil to blend with cajeput is niaouli, or any oil possessing similar properties. It is not advisable to use it as an inhalant just before bed unless mixed with a sedative oil to counteract its stimulating effects. Always cover the eyes when inhaling.

Do not use essential oils undiluted or take internally without the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The information contained here is for general interest and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.