For centuries, the Maori people of New Zealand have been relying on a particular tree for therapeutic purposes. It is called the Manuka tree and its oil is useful in treating a wide variety of illnesses – from fevers to skin disorders. Manuka oil is extracted from the leaves, seeds, and branches of this medicinal tree. Even before being extracted, this essential oil is able to manifest its potency, protecting the tree from natural enemies such as insects, fungi, and bacteria.

The Healing Properties of Manuka Oil

As a massage oil, Manuka oil benefits the mind and body through the promotion of relaxation and calmness. It can ease anxiety, stress, anger, nervous afflictions, and emotional disturbances. The use of Manuka oil in aromatherapy is a fairly recent practice although its healing properties have been known to the inhabitants of New Zealand for ages.

The healing applications of Manuka oil also include the following:

• Antibacterial – Manuka oil can help reduce bacterial growth in the body, including those that cause infections in the urinary system, colon, respiratory tracts and other susceptible areas. Researchers have shown that Manuka oil is effective against staphylococcus, which can develop on the skin or in the respiratory tract.
• Antifungal – Manuka oil is very useful in eliminating fungal infections, particularly those in the ears.
• Natural moisturizer – Moisturizing the skin is not a problem with Manuka oil. This essential oil can help the skin stay hydrated, soft, and supple. It also helps prevent premature skin aging and rejuvenate the skin’s outer layers.
• Anti-dandruff – Manuka oil is also helpful in maintaining the scalp’s moisture and oil balance.
• Anti-inflammatory – Manuka essential oil is effective in clearing inflammation in the lungs and colon. It can efficiently take care of any type of inflammation, including those in the digestive system.
• Anti-allergy – Manuka oil can help calm down the body’s allergic reactions to certain foreign elements such as pollens, dust, and many other irritants.
• Antihistamine – It has natural antihistamine that is good for persistent cough due to excess histamine. Its antihistamine properties can also help relieve skin irritations.
• Cicatrizing – Manuka oil can assist in the fading of scars by promoting new cell development. This is particularly useful for eliminating acne scars, stretch marks, and burns.

Additional Manuka Oil Benefits

Manuka oil is effective in treating sores, acne, cuts, itching, rashes, ringworm infections, and athlete’s foot. This essential oil is used in aromatherapy to beat body odor. Its pleasant aroma is also helpful in settling the mind and calming frayed nerves. When added to a warm bath, it can help uplift a person’s mood. It can also be effective in treating muscle and joint problems such as arthritis and back pain.

Compared to the Australian tea tree oil, Manuka oil is milder on the skin. It is also several times more effective against bacterial and fungal infections. This essential oil blends well with a host of other oils such as clove, geranium, lavender, marjoram, Oak moss, Rosemary and ylang-ylang.

Manuka Oil Side Effects

Manuka oil does not seem to produce any side effects, but always use a patch test if you suspect you’re sensitive to a particular oil.