MANUKA ESSENTIAL OIL
A powerful New Zealand essential oil traditionally valued for immune support, skin health, respiratory wellbeing, and natural protection.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Leptospermum scoparium
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Method of Extraction: Steam distilled from the leaves and twigs
Note: Top/Middle
Colour: Pale to dark yellow
Aroma: Spicy, fresh, herbaceous
About This Essential Oil
Manuka Essential Oil, often referred to as New Zealand Tea Tree, is one of New Zealand's most valued native essential oils. Traditionally used for skin care, respiratory support, and immune wellbeing, Manuka is renowned for its powerful cleansing and protective properties while maintaining a softer aroma than Australian Tea Tree.
Key Benefits
• Traditionally supports healthy skin
• Popular during seasonal illnesses
• Traditionally valued for respiratory wellbeing
• Supports natural immune function
• Cleansing and purifying aroma
• Useful for household and personal care applications
History
Also known as New Zealand Tea Tree, Manuka shares many similarities with Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) and has been recognised for its impressive therapeutic potential. Manuka is a hardy evergreen shrub that can grow to tree size and is found throughout New Zealand and Tasmania, thriving in poor soils and harsh growing conditions.
The leaves and branches release aromatic oils when rubbed and have been traditionally used by Māori as topical applications for wounds, cuts, sores, and skin conditions. Manuka essential oil has an approximate yield of 7% and is often described as having a sweeter aroma than Australian Tea Tree.
Main Chemical Components
Sesquiterpenes, Monoterpenes
Properties
• Analgesic
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Antiviral
• Anti-allergenic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Deodorant
• Decongestant
• Expectorant
• Immune stimulant
• Insecticide
• Sedative
Traditional Uses
• Skin – Traditionally used for infected wounds, ulcers, cuts, acne, herpes, blisters, insect bites, warts, athlete's foot, verrucas, skin irritation, oily skin, body odour, and ringworm.
• Muscular System – Traditionally valued for muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, and warming applications.
• Respiratory System – Traditionally used for asthma, colds, influenza, sore throats, coughs, sinusitis, and catarrh.
• Immune System – Traditionally valued during fever, infectious illnesses, and chickenpox.
• Oral Care & Hygiene – Traditionally used for mouth hygiene, tooth care, foot odour, and natural air freshening applications.
Psychological & Emotional Uses
• Protective and grounding
• Helps ease emotional and psychological scarring
• Traditionally valued for emotional balance
• Supports nervous system stability
• Encourages resilience during challenging times
• Promotes a sense of safety and wellbeing
Blends Well With
Lemon, Lavender, Pine, Myrtle, Rosemary, Marjoram, Peppermint, Chamomile, Tea Tree, Clary Sage, Basil, and Petitgrain.
Health & Safety
• Occasionally may cause irritation on sensitive skin.
• Always dilute appropriately before topical use.
• Conduct a patch test before use on sensitive skin.
• For external use only.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store below 25°C away from direct sunlight.
