Have you heard of Manuka oil and you’re wondering what you could use it for? Is it more effective than other essential oils – such as tea tree essential oil? What are its benefits and do you need it in your daily skincare routine? Well, this is just the right place to discover it.
It is crucial that we take care of our skin since it is the largest organ in our body. When it gets irritated you are sure of having a horrible day which could negatively affect your wellbeing and productivity. Manuka oil is the among the best candidates for the skincare job.
In this post you’ll learn about the benefits of Manuka oil for your body and skin. We’ll also discuss how to use this essential oil for best results, and which brands I recommend.
What is Manuka Oil?
Manuka oil is the essential oil obtained from the tree with the scientific name Leptospermum Scoparium. It is extracted directly from the leaves. This tree and its oil have been well known among the Maori for hundreds of years and only recently became well known in the west.
In fact, it has been shown to be an effective treatment and cure for various conditions and ailments and is now a regularly recommended alternative to manufactured medicines for these ailments.
What are the Various Uses of Manuka Oil?
Numerous medical studies have been documented showing the various benefits of Manuka oil. Among essential oils, Manuka happens to have the greatest versatility and is useful for a variety of things.
1. Inflammation
Manuka oil has anti-inflammatory properties that lend themselves to various uses. It can drastically reduce swellings as well as eliminate any discomfort caused by them. It is particularly useful against insect stings and bites.
2. Skin Condition
This essential oil has antibacterial properties that make it a powerful agent when applied to the skin. It can prevent the build-up of bacteria on the skin as well as in hair follicles to prevent the development of acne and dark spots. It also moisturizes dry skin and prevents the development of dandruff on the scalp.
In addition, it can help soothe the symptoms associated with eczema orpsoriasis.
3. Wound Healing
The specific scientific term for the property of Manuka oil that makes it useful in healing wounds is cytophylactic. This means that it promotes the growth and development of new body cells, which can be effective in closing up a wound as it seals itself more rapidly. This oil is therefore recommended for the treatment of open sores on any external part of the body.
4. General Antibacterial and Anti-fungal Properties
Manuka oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties make it ideal for the treatment of a variety of conditions including athlete’s foot, bad body odor, itches and skin rashes.
Manuka Oil vs. Tea Tree Oil
Manuka oil has many of the properties of its close cousin tea tree oil. However, it is far superior to tea tree oil in terms of antibacterial properties. Scientists have found it to be up to 33 times as potent as its counterpart, making it a clear favorite as essential oils go.
Indeed studies show that Manuka oil is most potent among the eucalyptus oil, rosmarinus oil, lavandula oil and tea tree oil for antibacterial potential. (source)
How to Use it?
There are two main ways to do this: topical application and aromatherapy.
Topical application
For topical application simply sprinkle a couple of drops on the affected area and rub deeply. Manuka oil is most effective when absorbed directly into the skin. Besides, most of its uses apply to conditions which affect the skin, making this mode of application ideal. It is also used as massage oil.
Aromatherapy
For aromatherapy, Manuka oil can be used on its own or in conjunction with other essential oils.
Note: Don’t take this oil internally unless under the supervision of a Medical Doctor who is also qualified in clinical Aromatherapy or an aromatherapist.
Where Can You Get Manuka Oil?
Here are the two brands I recommend: Hill Country and Pur 360. Both products contain only one ingredient – 100% pure manuka oil. They don’t use fillers nor additives.
Potential Side Effects
Here there’s nothing but great news! Manuka oil is considered as safe and hasn’t yet, in its entire history of usage, been demonstrated to have negative side effects when used in moderate quantity.
However, some people can be allergic to this oil. Please consult a qualified practitioner to make sure it’s appropriate for you to take. Avoid use during pregnancy because of spasmolytic activity. Also read this page about the use of essential oils.
Summary
Manuka oil has many health benefits. It’s highly antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. This means that it’s an amazing ingredient to use for many skin problems.
There’s another great remedy that comes from the Manuka bush: Manuka honey. It has similar properties and it’s commonly used to treat wounds. I recommend that your read this post about Manuka honey and its benefits.
Note that Manuka oil is a better option for vegans. The oil is extracted from the leaves and doesn’t involve bees compared to Manuka honey.
Have you ever tried Manuka oil? Feel free to share your experience here below!
- Sources
- Disclaimer
Article by
J. Beck
Sources for this article include:
- Topical Administration of Manuka Oil Prevents UV-B Irradiation-Induced Cutaneous Photoaging in Mice (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
- Photo credit: Manuka Flower By Avenue (Own work)
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner.
If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. For example, consuming food that you’re sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) inflammation.
Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. All legal mentions »
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