KANUKA ESSENTIAL OIL
A gentle New Zealand native essential oil traditionally valued for supporting sensitive skin, immune wellbeing, and respiratory health.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Kunzea ericoides
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Method of Extraction: Steam distilled from the leaves and twigs
Note: Top/Middle
Colour: Cloudy yellow
Aroma: Spicy, fresh, herbaceous
About This Essential Oil
Kanuka Essential Oil is one of New Zealand’s most treasured native essential oils. Often considered a gentler alternative to Manuka, it is traditionally valued for supporting sensitive skin, immune wellbeing, and respiratory health. Its mild action makes it suitable for use with children over six months of age and older adults when appropriately diluted.
Key Benefits
• Traditionally supports sensitive and problem skin
• Popular for immune and respiratory wellbeing
• Gentler alternative to Manuka Essential Oil
• Traditionally valued for soothing muscular discomfort
• Suitable for use with children over six months when diluted
• Fresh, cleansing New Zealand native aroma
History
Kanuka Essential Oil has a yield of approximately 3.5%, making it a valuable New Zealand botanical. Traditionally, Kanuka has been regarded as milder than Manuka Essential Oil, making it particularly suitable for sensitive skin types and milder skin conditions.
Kanuka and Manuka are often combined to create a powerful antimicrobial synergy, offering benefits similar to Tea Tree Essential Oil while maintaining a gentler aromatic profile. Its mild action has made it popular for use with babies over six months, children, and older adults when appropriately diluted.
Main Chemical Components
Sesquiterpenes, Monoterpenes
Properties
• Antiseptic
• Antiviral
• Antifungal
• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Expectorant
• Immune Stimulant
Traditional Uses
• Skin – Traditionally used for acne, cuts, psoriasis, cold sores, and sensitive skin conditions.
• Muscular System – Traditionally valued for muscular aches, pains, inflammation, and swelling.
• Respiratory System – Traditionally used for coughs, colds, fever, and respiratory wellbeing.
• Immune System – Traditionally valued for supporting the body's natural defence mechanisms.
Psychological & Emotional Uses
• Similar emotional profile to Manuka Essential Oil
• Grounding and balancing
• Traditionally valued during times of stress and emotional fatigue
• Supports calmness and emotional resilience
• Encourages wellbeing and emotional stability
Blends Well With
Lemon, Lavender, Pine, Myrtle, Rosemary, Marjoram, Peppermint, Chamomile, and Petitgrain.
Health & Safety
• No known contraindications when used appropriately.
• Considered suitable during pregnancy.
• Suitable for children over six months when appropriately diluted.
• Always dilute appropriately before topical use.
• For external use only.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store below 25°C away from direct sunlight.
