Cajeput essential oil is interesting and unique. This post will give you the properties, uses, and benefits of cajeput essential oil.
Pros: Cajeput essential oil is antioxidant, antimicrobial and insecticidal.
Cons: The oil is a known respiratory and skin irritant.
Precautions: Cajeput oil may cause asthma and breathing problems so check with your doctor before using it.
Properties of Cajeput Essential Oil
Here are a few properties of cajeput essential oil for you to consider.
NameThe botanical names for cajeput are Melaleuca leucadendra or Melaleuca cajuputi.
You'll notice these names are similar to tea tree's (Melaleuca alternifolia). That's because cajeput and tea tree are related.
Also, cajeput is sometimes called cajuput or white wood. So be sure to verify these names before buying the essential oil.
Color & ScentThe color of cajeput oil ranges from colorless to pale yellow. And it's scent has fruity and camphorous notes.
Many aromatherapists would say cajeput smells similar to a mix of camphor, rosemary and cardamom!
CompoundsOver 41 compounds have been found in cajeput essential oil. They include: eucalyptol (40%), terpinolene, alpha-terpineol, gamma-terpinene, limonene, linalool and alpha-pinene.
These compounds cause cajeput to have wonderful benefits.
Benefits of Cajeput Oil
Some benefits of cajeput essential oil are listed below.
1. Cajeput Essential Oil is antioxidant
Free radicals are harmful compounds that can damage your cells' DNA and potentially cause cancer. Antioxidants, on the other hand, scavenge or neutralize free radicals and so render them harmless.
A 2010 study tested the essential oils of the fruits and leaves of cajeput. And both oils showed sigificant antioxidant activity against free radicals.
2. It is antibacterial
There are several studies (including this 2011 study) that demonstrate cajeput's antibacterial effects.
And a 1994 one identified eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol as the compounds responsible for these effects.
3. Cajeput oil is anti-fungal
The same 2011 study mentioned above also showed cajeput essential oil inhibited the fungi, Candida albicans. That's the species that causes thrush, yeast infections, diaper rash and more.
The study showed a 1% mix of cajeput essential oil was able to kill this fungi!
4. Cajeput is insecticidal
There are many studies that prove cajeput essential oil is effective against insects like mosquitoes and termites.
A 2012 study used an aerosol spray with cajeput oil on adult mosquitoes. Two concentrations were used: 5% and 10% concentrations. Both concentrations were able to kill mosquitoes on contact!
Another study (2005) soaked filter paper in cajeput oil (5% and 10% concentrations) and fed the paper to termites. Within 1 day, all termites that ate the paper died! And the filter paper was effective 3 months after it was initally soaked!
Cajeput essential oil benefits are just amazing!
Uses of Cajeput Essential Oil
Here are some uses for cajeput essential oil
InhalingCajeput can irritate your respiratory system so use it sparingly. You can add 1 drop of cajeput essential oil to your diffuser for that combination smell of rosemary, cardamom and camphor.
Cajeput oil also blends well with cedarwood, oregano, rosemary and thyme.
Massaging
Cajeput oil may also irritate your skin. So it is very important to do a skin patch test to see if you are sensitive or allergic to the oil.
If you are not, add 1 drop of the oil to 1 teaspoon of a carrier before using on your skin.
More precautions
Some suggest that cajeput oil may cause asthma attacks and breathing problems, especially in children. So it is absolutely important to consult your doctor before using this oil especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or using it on young children.
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