Melaleuca cajuputi, M. leucadendron – Plant Family: Myrtaceae
Type of plant: Tall evergreen flowering tree with gray, papery bark and white or green flower spikes
Part used: Leaves and twigs
Method of extraction: Steam distillatio
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About: Also known as cajeput. This is the original species from which all the melaleuca species evolved. It’s sometimes called white tree, due to its lightcolored bark. The tree bark has been used as roofing and flooring material, and in Australia the plant was traditionally used by Aboriginal people for aches, pains, and headaches. In an herbal dated 1876, cajuput is mentioned as useful in treating intestinal problems.
Principal places of production: Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, India, Australia
When buying look for: A colorless to pale-yellow liquid with a strong, fruity, camphor-like aroma
Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-infectious, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, decongestant, expectorant, febrifuge, insect deterrent, pectoral, stimulant, tonic
Therapeutic uses: Arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia, muscular spasm and
contractions, sciatica, sore throat, sinusitis, bronchitis, coughs, colds, parasiteinduced skin problems, skin infection, head lice, insect bites, fatigue
Blends well with: Bay laurel, bergamot, camphor (white), cardamom, cinnamon leaf, clove bud, eucalyptus lemon, eucalyptus radiata, geranium, ginger, hyssop decumbens, juniper berry, lavandin, lemon, myrtle, niaouli, nutmeg, orange (sweet), oregano, peppermint, pine, rosemary, sage (Greek), sandalwood, spruce, tea tree, thyme linalol
Precautionary advice: No contraindications known
