Manuka oil is an essential oil derived from the manuka bush native to New Zealand. Long known to be a natural ‘pharmacy’ by the Maori people indigenous to New Zealand, there is an impressive array of conditions and diseases that Magical Manuka can be used to treat. Here are some uses of manuka oil that may have you reaching for it as a natural alternative.
Topical
- Lumbago, rheumatism, and stiffening of the joints – mix with carrier oil and massage in.
- Body odor – mix into your shower gel or liquid soap.
- Fungal infections – apply a few drop twice daily. Apply for 5 days after infection disappears.
- Dandruff and itchy scalp – add 10 drops into your shampoo. Make an overnight treatment by mixing a few drops with a carrier oil and massaging into the scalp. Wash hair the next day.
- Acne – after washing with manuka soap, use as a spot treatment.
- Cut and scratches – mix with water or oil and bathe the area after cleansing.
- Sunburn relief – use in a cream or mix with water in a spray bottle if the burn is too sensitive.
- Insect repellent – apply to exposed skin.
- Haemorrhoids and anal fissures – mix with a carrier oil and apply to the affected area. Can be an ingredient for enemas.
Inhalation – diffusion, through steam, or drops on a handkerchief
- Sinus problems
- Chest congestion
- Bronchitis
- Asthma – to help with the inflammation caused by histamines. Not a substitute for medication.
Hot soak/warm compress
- Foot odor
- Improve sleep – add to bath water (or inhale)
- Fever – to soothe skin inflammation
Mouth wash – do not swallow
- Bad breath – gargle for gingivitis and to promote oral hygiene.
- Toothache
- Sore throat
Use therapeutic strength manuka honey or manuka teas for ingestion
- Diarrhoea
- Digestive problems
- Kidney and urinary problems (or hot compresses)
Household Uses
The uses of manuka oil also extend to general household cleaning. Clean the dishwasher, kitchen cloths and disinfect surfaces with a few drops of manuka oil added to water or directly into the wash.
References
The Herb Federation of New Zealand: Manuka Fact Sheet
Good Sport: Manuka Uses
Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash
Heather Ogden-Handa
Good to meet you! I’m a marketer and writer interested in aging and longevity. I see lots of great information out there, so I’m keen to share topics that take my interest. Over time I hope the knowledge and community around this blog will have a positive impact on the healthy lifestyles of many individuals.