Guide To Cajeput Essential Oil and Its Benefits and Uses

Cajeput essential oil (Melaleuca cajuputi or Melaleuca leucadendron) is a less common oil from the same plant family as tea tree essential oil.

An alternative spelling for the oil is cajuput.

Basic Cajeput Facts

Plant family: Myrtaceae

Production: Steam distilled from the leaves of the tree.

Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, fruity.

Perfume/Aromatic note: Medium

Is cajeput safe to use during pregnancy? Probably not. Consult a professional.

Is cajeput essential oil safe for children? The 1,8 cineole content of cajeput may distress the nervous system and cause breathing problems in young children. Do not use with kids under age 6.

Main components:

• 1,8-cineole       41.1–70.9%
• alpha-terpineol  6.5–8.7%
• p-cymene         0.7–6.8%
• terpinolene       0–5.9%

Source: Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Edition

Cajeput Essential Oil Benefits and Uses

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Use cajeput to help relieve arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia, muscle spasms, sciatica, sore throat, coughs, colds, fatigue, and insect bites and in blends to help get rid of head lice.

The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (updated edition): In skin care use cajeput for insect bites, oily skin, and spots. The oil may help relieve arthritis, rheumatism, muscle aches and pains, coughs, sore throat, colds, and flu.

Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness: Cajeput may help relieve insect bites, acne, psoriasis, pimples, rheumatic pain, arthritis, muscle aches and pains, and mucous and respiratory problems.

Aromatica: A Clinical Guide to Essential Oil Therapeutics, Volume I: Psychologically, cajeput stimulates and mind and promotes alertness and also promotes motivation and self-confidence. Physically, the oil is primarily a restorative and stimulant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the essential function of this essential oil is to raise the Yang, warm the interior, and strengthen the Shen.

Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques: Cajeput develops child-like devotion and trust in the universe.

Mixing Essential Oils for Magic: Cajeput oil can provide balance and stability when combined with other essential oils. This oil stimulates the mind, strengthens courage, supports creative and sexual expression, and helps build a solid sense of self for growth and healing.

Plant Therapy: Cajeput can help energize and improve your mood. The essential oil supports the respiratory system during colds and flu. Use the oil to help relieve sore muscles and joints, reduce menstrual cramps, and soothe bug bites.

Suggested breathe easier diffuser blend: 2 drops cajeput, 2 drops lemon, and 2 drops thyme linalool essential oils.  

Eden's Garden: Use cajeput to support the body after exertion. Suggested blends:

Massage Oil for Sore Muscles

• 5 drops cajeput essential oil
• 5 drops helichrysum essential oil
• 3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 7 drops copaiba essential oil
• Jojoba or other carrier oil

Add the essential oils to a 2-ounce squeeze bottle. Fill the bottle with carrier oil. Shake to mix well. Massage into sore areas. (1.7% dilution)

Bath Salts for Sore Muscles

• 2 drops cajeput
• 2 drops frankincense essential oil
• 1 drop peppermint essential oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt

Stir together all ingredients. Add to a full tub of water for a relaxing soak.

Breathe Easier Massage Oil

• 4 drops cajeput
• 6 drops kunzea essential oil
• 2 drops lemon essential oil
• 2 tablespoons carrier oil  

Blend ingredients. Massage a little of the bend onto the chest area before going to bed.

Source: 150 Ways to Use Essential Oils from Eden's Garden

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Photo Credit: Murray Fagg, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons