Manuka oil
Manuka (Leptospermum scorparium) is native to south-eastern Australia and the mountainous regions of New Zealand. It is source for manuka honey and manuka oil. The species belonging to the myrtle family. It is also known as New Zealand myrtle or South Sea myrtle and can grow up to eight metres tall. The robust shrub bears white to reddish flowers between May and June and requires only a few nutrients to thrive.
The English botanist and naturalist Joseph Banks (1743 to 1820), who was part of James Cook’s expedition team, observed that the Maori used various parts of the manuka plant to treat gastrointestinal complaints, colds, skin diseases and bladder infections. Shortly afterwards, it was Banks who first considered the possibility of medical applications in Europe. At that time, the Maori even considered the shrub to be a sacred tree. The indigenous people prepared a decoction from parts of the plant, which led to the name ‘tea tree’ becoming established in English-speaking countries. However, manuka should not be confused with the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia).
The rediscovery of manuka oil
After its discovery, manuka was initially forgotten. It was not until 1925 that it was brought back into the spotlight by the Australian chemist Penfold. He discovered that manuka oil was about ten times more effective against bacteria than the carbolic acid that had been commonly used until then. This caught the attention of the New Zealand government, which commissioned extensive studies that proved both the skin compatibility and the effectiveness of manuka oil.
It did not take long before manuka oil could be extracted from the branches and leaves of the manuka tree through steam distillation. Even today, 150 kilograms of plant parts are still needed to produce one kilogram of manuka oil. The cultivation and production of the oil are now also subsidised in New Zealand. Due to its excellent tolerability, manuka oil has become a real alternative to classic tea tree oil.
What’s in manuka oil
Manuka oil is rich in sesquiterpenes (cadinene), which make up 65 to 68 per cent of its content. Cadinene promotes the regeneration of skin and mucous membranes, thereby contributing to wound healing. The substance is extremely skin-friendly and has a positive effect on allergic skin reactions because it regulates the release of histamines. Other most important components, accounting for around 25 per cent, are the triketones flavesone, isoleptospermon and leptospermon. The ketone bodies with the three carbonyl groups can increase concentration and performance, as they enable organs such as the brain to obtain energy from fats more quickly. Compared to tea tree oil, leptospermon has a significantly stronger effect on fungi and bacteria, but is still very skin-friendly.
The active ingredient sesquiterpenol is present in manuka oil at a concentration of five to six percent. Sesquiterpenol helps to balance hormone levels, as the substance acts on the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. It strengthens connective tissue, ensures a well-functioning immune system and strengthens the lymph vessels.
The oil of manuka also contains terpenes (monoterpenes), which stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory substances, at a concentration of three percent. Cineol should also be mentioned, although only traces of it are detectable in manuka oil. In this case, however, the low occurrence is actually an advantage, as the substance is often not well tolerated in high doses. Cineol is helpful for colds and respiratory diseases and gives the oil a slight pungency.
The use of manuka oil
Naturally pure manuka oil has a balancing effect on mental well-being. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and proves helpful in cases of inner restlessness. It can be inhaled for colds and helps with tension and sore muscles when rubbed in or used as a massage oil. Its spasmolytic (relaxing) effect on the muscles was proven in a British study in 2000. In 2016, Taiwanese researchers confirmed its potential use in the treatment of immune-related diseases and infections. The effect is mainly due to the oil’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Manuka oil is also particularly popular in cosmetics for inflamed, itchy and/or allergic skin, making it an ideal remedy whenever the skin needs protection and healing. It also has a positive effect on poorly healing wounds, cold sores, fungal diseases and psoriasis. In 2006, German researchers achieved clear positive results in treating vaginal fungal infections.
Furthermore, a team of researchers from the University of Heidelberg, led by Prof. Jürgen Reichling, advocated the use of manuka oil for herpes. The team had previously investigated the inhibitory effect of the oil on herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 and concluded that the antiviral effect occurs even before the pathogens penetrate the cells.
Manuka oil in cosmetic products
Many scientists even consider manuka oil to be the broad-spectrum antibiotic of the future, as it is not only amazingly effective against listeria and streptococci.
It can also be used to treat tooth decay and gum disease, for example. Even a 0.2% solution can kill harmful bacteria in the mouth.
A study conducted by Korea University Medical School in 2013 also demonstrated that manuka oil has anti-ageing properties. These, in turn, are linked to its inhibitory activity against skin inflammation caused by UV radiation.
In 2016, Prof. Dr. Thomas Henle from the Technical University of Dresden confirmed the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of manuka in the context of acne treatments, following several studies that had already presented corresponding scientific results.
Manuka oil can be used not only as a pure oil, but also as an ingredient in creams, oil blends and ointments. It is effective even in small doses; often just a few drops are enough to achieve a healing effect.
However, it is important to note that allergic reactions cannot be completely ruled out.
Interesting side note: Manuka oil has also been clinically tested for the treatment of ear and skin infections in dogs. It has been found to be particularly effective against the methicillin-resistant pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in animals.
Manuka oil profile
Botanical name: Leptospermum scoparium
INCI: Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil
CAS number: 219828-87-2
Description: a light yellow to yellow-brown liquid with a subtle honey-like scent
Effect: antibacterial and antifungal, strengthens the immune system, pain-relieving, helpful for scars, neurodermatitis, insect bites, colds, exhaustion and stress, suitable for improving indoor air quality
Application: Manuka oil can be used undiluted, diluted or in mixtures.
Manuka honey
In the 20th century, Dr Peter Molan, an expert on honey, discovered the extraordinary effects of Manuka honey, which must now be verified for purity according to the so-called ‘Molan Gold Standard’ (MGS). It has similar benefits to Manuka oil.
Bees produce Manuka honey from the nectar of Manuka flowers, which also has antibacterial properties and is traditionally used as a natural remedy. Thanks to its high polyphenol and mineral content, it is also a real miracle weapon in cosmetics. For example, it stimulates the fibroblasts that produce collagen, promotes the repair of skin damage and helps combat blemishes.
However, honey has now also established itself in other areas. At the children’s clinic of the ‘Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität’ in Bonn, for example, a Manuka honey-based preparation has been used for some time for wound care in children. In a Berlin clinic for anthroposophic medicine (diabetology department), Manuka honey is used in the treatment of wounds that are difficult to heal, particularly in diabetic foot syndrome, as a complement to conventional methods. It is said to help wounds heal better and faster. It is also said to reduce scarring.
However, manuka honey is primarily recommended for non-chronic wounds, such as those that occur after surgery, as a result of an injury or after radiotherapy.
Compared to manuka oil, however, the range of applications is broader overall, as the honey can of course also be consumed. However, manuka oil ensures easier and more precise dosing.
What to consider when using manuka
In general, manuka oil has a shelf life of about three to five years. If it takes on a very intense yellow colour, it should no longer be used.
In addition, the use of manuka oil during pregnancy is not recommended.
Manuka oil and manuka honey in cosmetics
Manuka oil is the most precious tea tree oil and is not only gentler on the skin but also more effective than Australian tea tree oil. Its uses are exceptionally diverse, as it has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, relaxing, soothing, disinfecting and antiseptic properties. Manuka honey also has many valuable properties that are already being utilised by some hospitals. Anyone who uses high-quality cosmetic products made from or containing manuka oil or manuka honey benefits from a unique natural product that is virtually free of side effects. Please ask, if you would like update your product with manuka oil.
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Literature:
Manuka Oil-A Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties.
Mathew C, Tesfaye W, Rasmussen P, Peterson GM, Bartholomaeus A, Sharma M, Thomas J.Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2020 Oct 26;13(11):343
Kaur R, Kaur L, Gupta TB, Bronlund J.Foods. 2023 Mar 21;12(6):1333
Pedonese F, Longo E, Torracca B, Najar B, Fratini F, Nuvoloni R.Ital J Food Saf. 2022 Feb 22;11(1):10039