Oil of Cajeput, Melaleuca cajeputi, may be better known as white tea tree oil, swamp tea tree oil, or just plain tea tree oil. The tree is a member of the Melaleuca family of trees that includes the eucalyptus, paperbark, punk and niaouli trees. Tea tree or cajeput oil is extracted from the fresh leaves and twigs by steam distillation. The trees grow wild in Australia, Vietnam, Java, Indonesia, Malaysia and other areas of Southeast Asia.
Properties of Cajeput Oil
Cajeput oil--or tea tree oil--is well-known for its anti-fungal and antibiotic properties. It is a mild analgesic, expectorant, insecticide and diaphoretic. It also is antimicrobial, kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms; anti-neuralgic, relieves or reduces nerve pain; anthelmintic, eliminates intestinal worms; and carminative, relieves and prevents flatulence.
Cautions about Cajeput Oil
While some may recommend the use of cajeput oil, it should only be used under the direction of a qualified aromatherapist or naturopath. It should not be used during pregnancy, nor should it be used when there is inflammation. It should also be avoided if you have asthma. When used internally, cajeput oil should always be diluted. It may cause an increased pulse rate and excess perspiration when too much is ingested.
External Uses of Cajeput Oil
When diluted, cajeput oil has been used to treat acne, colic, bruises, earache, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatism, scabies, scurvy and burns. In Malaysia, tea tree oil is used as a pain killer. The Burmese mix cajeput oil with camphor and use it to treat joint and bone problems. It can be directly applied to ringworm lesions and athlete's foot infestations. Insect bites and impetigo can also be treated successfully with oil of cajeput.
Internal Uses of Cajeput Oil
When diluted, cajeput oil has proven effective as a douche in treating yeast infections or Candida. It can be mixed with sugar, 1 to 10 drops of cajeput oil on a sugar cube for colds, throat infections and to treat intestinal parasites like roundworm. The sugar cube treatment can also be used to treat cholera and colic. It can also be used in water as a gargle to treat laryngitis and bronchitis.
From the Medical Community
In Vietnam, medical doctors have determined that cajeput oil is an effective antibacterial and often use it for external applications. Cajeput oil also combines well with conventional antibiotics. In the United States, the medical community does not endorse the use of cajeput oil, or any essential oil or herb, for treatment of any type of medical condition.
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