Essential oils are gradually becoming popular and what a time to be alive. If you don’t know what essential oils are, err… I’d like to let you know that’s 2019. You can join the rest of us in this century whenever you’re free.
OK, on a more serious note, essential oils have a plethora of benefits whether it’s for your skin, hair, feet, or nerves, so you need to get in on it asap-ish. There is a variety of them out there but nothing beats the Manuka essential oil.
If you are new to essential oils or Manuka essential oil, you will find this Manuka essential oil review very interesting and helpful. It covers everything that you need to know about this amazing essential oil and how it can help you change your life – forever (no exaggeration). Importantly, I will show you how you can use Manuka essential oil for dandruff and to get rid of it completely.
Let’s start from the basics.
Table of Contents
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated oils extracted from certain parts of a plant like the leaves, flowers, root, or its bark. They are called essential oils because they contain the plant’s fragrance, flavour, healing properties as well as any other characteristic (all collectively referred to as its essence) in very high and potent amounts.
Unlike carrier oils, essential oils are produced through a process known as distillation (through steam or water) although it can also be extracted through mechanical processes like cold pressing. Some manufacturers obtain essential oils through chemical processes but this means that the finished product is not 100% natural or as effective as it should be.
I feel the need to mention here that to get the best out of your essential oils, it is better to only go for products obtained through the distillation process – as they are considered to be of the highest quality.
Manuka Essential Oil
Manuka essential oil is extracted from the Manuka tree which belongs to the tea tree family (from which the popular tea tree oil is derived). The tree is native to the New Zealand where it has been used and loved by the Maori people for hundreds of years due to its healing properties and benefits. Several parts of the tree like the leaves, branches, and twigs are picked and steam distilled to produce this amazing healing oil.
If you haven’t heard of Manuka oil until now, that’s not surprising. The Manuka essential oil has only recently come under the spotlight and it’s being studied majorly for its antibacterial properties. But you’ve most likely heard of Manuka honey which also originates from New Zealand and is more popular amongst natural skincare enthusiasts.
Uses and Benefits
Here are the major uses and benefits of Manuka essential oil that will persuade you to start using it right away:
1. Treats Dry Scalp and Dandruff
If you’ve tried various anti-dandruff shampoos and treatments with no relief and you’re scratching your head (pun intended) wondering what else to use, Manuka essential oil for dandruff might just be the solution you need. Dandruff is mostly caused by dry and irritated scalp and infections, luckily this oil can fix all three.
With frequent use, it will balance the production of oil in the scalp and keep it moisturized as well as heal any irritation. Also, with its high anti-bacterial properties which are said to be 33 times more effective than tea tree oil, it will help to get rid of the infections on your scalp.
To use Manuka essential oil for dandruff, all you need to do is mix a few drops with your carrier oil or shampoo and massage into your scalp 20 minutes before washing it off. For best results, you’ll need to do this as often as three times a week.
2. Relieves Inflammation
Manuka essential oil is highly anti-inflammatory. So it’s pretty great in the treatment of common colds and helps with inflammations in your nasal and respiratory tracts. Where it trumps tea tree oil is that it also fixes inflammatory issues in your digestive and circulatory systems which might be caused by toxins.
That’s not all, it also reduces inflammations caused by injuries sustained from overworking the muscles as well as relieve stiff joints.
3. Treats Insect Bites
If you ever have an insect bite or a venomous sting, you’ll find that this oil provides immediate relief from the pain, discomfort and swelling. All you need to do is apply the oil directly to the area and massage gently. However, do not substitute this for seeking professional medical help if you’re in severe pain or if the swelling does not reduce in a few days.
4. It is Anti-Allergenic and Anti-Histaminic
Your body produces allergic reactions as a response to foreign elements like dust, pets, smoke, pollens etc. Usually, when this happens, your immune system responds by releasing excessive amounts of histamines and this is where Manuka essential oil proves useful.
Its anti-histaminic qualities mean that it is able to suppress the production of histamines and provide relief from allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing or itching. So it’s a better option to consider in place of regular anti-histamine medications.
5. It Has Deodorant Properties
Sweat could be said to be the cause of body odours but that’s only when you’re looking at things from the surface. In the real sense, it’s the microorganisms that feed on the sweat that’s responsible for the odour. Healthy skin has some bacteria on it which isn’t a problem in this regard because it could prevent body odour from getting too intense especially when you sweat.
However, for some people, their skin goes into over-drive, harbouring an excessive amount of bacteria which will cause body odour. Manuka oil, a strong antibacterial is effective in inhibiting the growth of these bacteria responsible for body odour.
Also, because of its pleasant fragrance, you could actually use it as a natural alternative to regular deodorants which are full of chemicals. To use it as a deodorant, mix it with your carrier oils, lotions or shower and bath gels.
6. It Is Anti-fungal
It is equally as effective in fighting fungal infections as it is with bacteria. For example, if you have an ear infection, one or two drops will make a difference in how you feel.
Hear hear!
Don’t say I did nothing for you.
7. Cleans and Cures Minor Wounds
The Manuka essential oil has been found to be 33 times stronger than tea tree oil in terms of its antimicrobial effect. Not surprising, given the wide range of bacteria that it has proven to be effective against. This makes it the ideal option when you want to clean and disinfect wounds.
Also, it is cicatrizant. This means that not only does it protect the wound from infections, it also speeds up healing by boosting the growth of new cells and the formation of scar tissue in the wounded area.
Here’s how you can use Manuka essential oil for wounds:
First, wash the area with just water to remove all traces of dirt. Then add several drops of the oil to a bowl of water and stir. Use cotton wool to gently dab the wash unto the wound. If you do this every day, you’ll find the wound healing quickly and the scars fading easily. Do not use it directly and undiluted on open wounds.
8. Promotes Healthy Skin
This oil is also pretty great for the skin so you might want to add it to your regimen. Its antibacterial properties help in fighting the acne-causing bacteria and preventing future breakouts. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing the swelling, discomfort and redness caused by the breakout.
Manuka oil also helps with stretch marks, scars as well as other skin irritations and diseases.
9. Treats Foot Infections
This oil is a quick remedy for athlete’s foot and toenail infections because of its powerful antibacterial and antifungal qualities. For athlete’s foot, what you can do is dilute the essential oil with a light carrier oil and then apply to the affected area using cotton wool. But be sure to apply to the area when it’s clean and dry and more importantly, keep the area dry between applications.
For toenail infections, you can use the oil during your regular pedicures or you can just put a few drops in water and soak your feet in it for about 10 minutes. Take them out and dry with a clean towel. It’s a good idea to wash your socks and towels with the oil for added antifungal protection.
10. Alleviates Stress
This essential oil is a great relaxant that can ease aching muscles and provide relief from stress, anxiety and sleeplessness. So if you’re insomniac, you might be sleeping on the benefits this oil could offer.
Not only that, it could help fight depression as it promotes a sense of well-being and it’s recommended for people who are hypertensive as it could balance their blood pressure levels. To get these benefits, you can add it to your massage oil or even better, add it to your bath. You’ll be surprised at how relaxing that would feel. If aromatherapy is your thing, feel free to put it in your diffuser and bask in the calming aroma.
Manuka Essential Oil Reviews
People who have used Manuka essential oil seem to be satisfied with the results. Here is what a customer said about the product:
“I have recently developed impetigo, a really irritating skin infection. However after hopelessly trying this product, it has significantly relieved my symptoms and helped me feel much better.”
Most users commended the effectiveness of the Manuka essential oil as it helped them cure nail infections, swellings, skin issues like acne, and psoriasis with consistent use.
How to Use Manuka Essential Oil
If you’re familiar with essential oils then you know that in general they need to be diluted before usage. However, Manuka oil can be used in the same way as tea tree oil. The two oils are alike in their properties but they have different compositions and constituents. And even though they are often used alternatively, Manuka oil is by far the more effective of the two.
Here are different ways it can be used:
- To apply it directly to the skin, one or two drops is enough but do not put it directly on cuts or open injuries.
- Add three or four drops to your massage oil or cream to ease muscle pains.
- Add about 10 drops to your bath water and soak to relieve stress and tension
- To use Manuka essential oil for dandruff, add three drops to your shampoo and conditioner.
- If you make your soaps and creams at home, feel free to add a few drops to your recipe.
Safety and Precaution
Manuka essential oil is relatively safe for use because it’s non-toxic. But like most essential oils, you’ll need to take a few precautionary measures:
- If you have sensitive skin, it should not be used directly on the skin without first diluting it.
- If you’re pregnant or lactating, it’s a good idea to avoid it entirely.
- Be sure to do a patch test to check for allergic reactions before using.
- Discontinue use immediately if you notice any irritations or reactions
- Unless advised by a medical doctor, do not consume this oil
- Keep it away from your eyes and if contact occurs, flush with a lot of water and immediately get medical help.
- Ensure you’re buying 100% pure and undiluted east cape Manuka essential oil
Side Effects
A few users have reported that the oil clogged their skin. It is, therefore, recommended that you dilute it with a carrier oil with a low comedogenic rating if you’re using it on your face.
Others have reported developing a rash but that’s probably an allergic reaction.
Who Should Use Manuka Essential Oil
Anyone and everyone can benefit from the wonders of this oil. Only exceptions are pregnant and lactating mothers or people with allergies or sensitive skin.
Where You Can Buy Manuka Essential Oil
Unlike Manuka honey which has become a premium product, Manuka essential oil is quite affordable. You can buy it online easily. Click here to place your order now.
Conclusion
With its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory qualities, Manuka essential oil is one of nature’s greatest gifts. Everyone should have one in their first aid kit. It’ll come in handy when you have an insect bite, when dandruff starts itching you, when acne decides to dare you, and when your boyfriend is acting up.
No lies.