Cajeput Essential Oil – “Cajeput essential oil is obtained from the white wood tree (Melaleuca leucadendron), which belongs to the same genus as the tea tree. This oil has a strong, camphor-like scent and is often used in aromatherapy to alleviate respiratory issues. It can also be incorporated into balms and salves for topical use.”
In addition to its respiratory benefits, cajeput essential oil is also known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to reduce muscle and joint pain, and may also have antibacterial and antifungal effects. Some people also use cajeput oil to repel insects or to treat minor cuts and wounds. It is important to note that cajeput essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin, as it can be irritating in high concentrations. It is also recommended to do a patch test before using cajeput oil on large areas of the skin or using it frequently. As with any essential oil, it is important to use cajeput oil safely and with caution.
Source
“Cajeput essential oil is often derived from the Melaleuca leucadendron tree, also known as the Melaleuca cajeput or Cajeput oil tree. This tree is native to Australia, the islands between Australia and Malaysia, and Indonesia, and is characterized by its thick white wood. Other species of Melaleuca, such as Melaleuca minor, may also be used to produce cajeput oil. The oil is extracted from the leaves and twigs of the tree through a steam distillation process, which preserves the oil’s natural nutrients. Before distillation, the plant material is usually fermented for a period of time. As a result of this process, cajeput essential oil is organic in nature.”
Properties
Cajeput oil exerts lots of therapeutic properties, which make it useful in aromatherapy and medicinal applications.
- Decongestant – It provides relief from nasal and chest congestion.
- Expectorant – It aids the release of phlegm from the lungs.
- Analgesic – It has a powerful pain-relieving effect.
- Antibacterial – It kills certain species of bacteria. [1]
- Antifungal – It kills many fungi species.
- Antiviral – It is active against some viruses too.
- Antineuralgic – It exerts a protective effect on the nervous system.
- Antiseptic – prevent infection in wounds.
- Carminative – It aids in the expulsion of intestinal gas.
- Diaphoretic – It promotes excessive sweating.
- Antipyretic ( febrifuge ) – It alleviates a fever.
- Insecticide – It is used to kill many species of insects.
- Vulnerary ( cicatrizant ) – aids in healing cuts, scrapes and wounds.
- Tonic – Promotes better working of the channels of the body.
- Antispasmodic – reduces spasms.
- Astringent – shrink the skin and takes away excess oil.
- Anti-Inflammatory – reduces inflammation.
- Antioxidant – protects the cells from free radical damage.
Colour and Aroma
“Cajeput essential oil is pale yellow in color, similar to tea tree oil. It has a strong, camphor-like aroma with herbaceous undertones, making it distinct from camphor oil. When blended with other essential oils, cajeput oil pairs well with tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and clove oil. It can also be mixed with spice oils, rosemary oil, lavender oil, ylang-ylang oil, pine oil, and cedar oil. Jojoba oil is a good carrier oil to use with cajeput essential oil.”
Health Benefits
Because of its healing properties, one can make use of cajeput oil for a variety of purposes.
Respiratory Distress
Cajeput essential oil can be used to alleviate respiratory issues caused by colds, coughs, flu, infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, and chronic conditions like sleep apnea and COPD. It can help to clear chest and nasal congestion, as well as loosen mucus. To use cajeput oil for respiratory relief, a few drops can be added to a vaporizer to disperse the oil’s aroma in the air. The oil has a calming effect on the nasal passages and may help to unblock a stuffy nose. Cajeput oil is also antispasmodic, which may make it helpful for people with asthma. However, it is important to note that cajeput oil can be an irritant and may worsen asthma symptoms or even trigger an asthma attack in some individuals. Therefore, it is recommended to use cajeput oil for respiratory issues only under the supervision of a trained professional.
Calm down a Fever
“Cajeput essential oil can be used to reduce fever when applied topically. To do this, add 20 drops of cajeput oil to a bucket of water and soak cotton cloths in the mixture. These cloths can then be applied to the skin to provide a cooling effect and help lower the fever. It is important to note that this method should not be used if the individual is experiencing chills.”
Pain Relief
Cajeput oil is known for its ability to provide relief from various types of pain, including injury, arthritis, gout, back pain, and sciatica, neuralgia, and neuritis. To use it for pain relief, add five drops of cajeput oil to a base oil like olive oil or castor oil and massage it onto the affected area. Cajeput oil has a warming and numbing effect, which can help to dull the sensation of pain. It is also anti-inflammatory, so regular use of this remedy may provide long-term relief from pain. Be careful not to get cajeput oil in the eyes, as it can cause irritation.
As an Antiseptic
To use cajeput oil for wound care, add a few drops to clean water and use the mixture to wash the wound. This can help to prevent infection at the site of the wound, and may also promote healing. Cajeput oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help to kill harmful microbes and protect the wound from further contamination. It is important to keep the wound clean and covered to promote healing and prevent infection, and using cajeput oil as part of your wound care routine may be helpful in this regard.
Oily Skin
Cajeput oil has astringent properties, which means it can help to tighten and tone the skin. To use it as a facial toner, add a few drops of cajeput oil to water or witch hazel and apply the mixture to the face using cotton balls. This can help to remove excess oil from the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and cleansed. Cajeput oil can also help to reduce the appearance of oily gloss on the face, leaving the skin looking matte and smooth. It is important to use cajeput oil in moderation, as it can be drying to the skin if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your face to ensure that it does not cause any irritation.
Toothache Relief
Like clove oil, cajeput oil can be used to help relieve toothache. To use it for this purpose, take a few drops of cajeput oil on a cotton ball and place it between the teeth that are causing pain. This can provide fast and effective relief from toothache, and may also disinfect the tooth and kill germs in the mouth. It is important to use cajeput oil sparingly, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. If you are using cajeput oil for toothache relief, be sure to follow the instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or if you have any concerns
Sinusitis
Cajeput oil can be helpful in relieving sinus congestion and sinusitis. One way to use it for this purpose is to prepare a steam inhalation. To do this, add about 20 drops of cajeput oil to a pot of boiling water, then lean over the pot and inhale the steam. This can help to eliminate sinus congestion and relieve the headache and heaviness that often accompany it. Cajeput oil has decongestant and expectorant properties, which can help to clear mucus from the sinuses and ease respiratory symptoms. It is important to be careful when using cajeput oil for steam inhalation, as the steam can be hot and may cause burns if it comes into contact with the skin. It is also a good idea to start with a small amount of oil and gradually increase the amount as needed, as cajeput oil can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively.
Muscle Cramps
Cajeput oil can be used to provide relief from cramps. To use it for this purpose, add about 20 drops of cajeput oil and lavender essential oil to a warm water bath. You can also add about 1 cup of salt or Epsom salt to the water to enhance the relaxing and soothing effects of the bath. Once the water is prepared, sit in the bath and gently massage the muscles that are sore and painful. This can help to provide excellent relief from cramps with a single application. Cajeput oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness. It is important to be careful when using cajeput oil in the bath, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your skin to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Aromatherapy
Cajeput oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to improve concentration and reduce brain fog and sluggishness. It can also be used to stay alert and boost energy levels. In addition to its cognitive benefits, cajeput oil can also help to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of confidence. When diffused in the air, it can also provide relief from nausea and help to curb vomiting. Cajeput oil can also have a calming effect on pets, helping to reduce irritation and improve their overall well-being. To use cajeput oil for aromatherapy, you can add a few drops to an essential oil diffuser or mix it with a carrier oil and apply it topically to the skin. It is important to use cajeput oil in moderation, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your skin to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Scabies
Cajeput oil can be used to help get rid of scabies mites on the skin. One way to use it for this purpose is to mix it with a base oil like neem oil, which has powerful insecticidal properties and is commonly used as a herbal treatment for scabies. To use cajeput oil for scabies, mix a few drops of it with neem oil or another suitable base oil and apply the mixture to the affected areas of the skin. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional for guidance on the appropriate dosage and frequency of use. It is important to use cajeput oil in moderation, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your skin to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Uses
Cajeput oil has a wide range of uses beyond its use in home remedies. Some of these uses include:
- Extracting chemicals like cineol
- Making vapour rubs and pain-relieving balms
- Treating bacterial and fungal infections in certain types of fish, such as betta fish
- Serving as an active ingredient in nasal inhalers to help open a blocked nose
- Being used as an insect repellent, either in a water- or oil-based spray to help drive away fleas and other insect species
- Being used extensively in the production of perfumes
These are just a few examples of the many ways in which cajeput oil is used in various industries and applications. It is important to use cajeput oil in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using cajeput oil on your skin to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Side Effects, Safe Dosage and Toxicity Issues
Cajeput oil is a strong irritant and should always be diluted with a base oil or water before use. It is not recommended for use by pregnant women or babies. While cajeput oil may be helpful for eczema, it may be harmful to other skin conditions such as psoriasis due to its irritant properties. It is rarely used internally, and if it is, it should only be done under the supervision of a trained herbalist. Cajeput oil is a carminative, which means it can help to relieve gas and bloating. However, it is important to use cajeput oil with caution, as it can be strong and may cause irritation if used excessively. It is also a good idea to do a patch test before using it on your skin to ensure that it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Interactions
There is presently no information on the interaction of cajeput oil with medication.
Nutritional and Medical Information
Let us look at the nutrition facts of cajeput essential oil. It is somewhat similar in nutrients to clove oil, eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil. This is the chemical composition of cajuput essential oil.
| Nutrient | Percentage |
| 1,8 – cineole | 14 – 69 % |
| α – pinene | 8 % |
| β – pinene | 1 % |
| Limonene | upto 10 % |
| Linalool | 3 – 4 % |
| Geraniol | traces |
Source : 4
The main nutrient in cajeput oil is 1,8-cineole, also known as eucalyptol, which has analgesic and numbing properties and is used for various industrial purposes. In addition to 1,8-cineole, cajeput oil also contains small amounts of terpineol, myrcene, p-cymene, and other terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
The antioxidant power of cajeput essential oil
Cajeput oil is also a powerful antioxidant, with an ORAC value of 37,000 (μmol TE/100 gm). ORAC, or oxygen radical absorbance capacity, is a measure of the antioxidant power of a substance. This means that even a small amount of cajeput oil has the ability to neutralize harmful oxygen-free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress. Cajeput oil’s antioxidant properties make it a useful tool for promoting overall health and wellness.
Buying and Storage
It is important to be cautious when buying cajeput oil, as it is often adulterated with other oils like eucalyptus oil and camphor oil, or other camphor-like ingredients. To ensure that you are getting a high-quality product, make sure to check the label and confirm that the oil is 100% pure cajeput oil from the cajeput tree.
Cajeput oil should be stored in a cold, dark place, away from sunlight and properly covered to preserve its quality and effectiveness. This will help to ensure that the oil maintains its potency and retains its therapeutic properties over time. It is also a good idea to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional for proper storage and use of cajeput oil.
References
1. Antibacterial Properties of Vietnamese Cajuput Oil. Nguyen Duy Cuong et al. Journal of Essential Oil Research
2. Essential oils of tropical Asteromyrtus, Callistemon and Melaleuca species: searching for interesting oils with commercial potential. Brophy, J. J.; Doran, J. C.
3. Repellency effect of forty-one essential oils against Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquitoes. Abdelkrim Amer, Heinz Mehlhorn. Parasitology Research
4. Aromatherapy Science: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. By Maria Lis-Balchin
5. Essential Leaf Oils from Melaleuca cajuputi. J.H. Kim et. al.