Essential Oil Education

Springtime allergies can bring very uncomfortable symptoms like sneezing, itchy red eyes, and constant nose blowing. What is happening–an allergic reaction to tree pollen than can start early in the season and last into the beginning of summer–just in time for summer allergies to grasses! Many essential oils have been found to help with these symptoms if not eliminate them all together. In this post, I want to specifically look at the melaleuca oils whic are high in 1,8 cineole–the compound that is the respiratory tract’s best friend.

Melaleuca cajuputi, commonly called cajuput is native to Australia. Its high cineole content (50-70%) gives it many of the same great qualities as Eucalyptus globulus, polybractea and radiata.  It is used for many purposes including respiratory congestion, asthma, urinary problems, coughs, hay fever (allergies), toothaches, bursitis, psoriasis, insect bites, and sore muscles. “Kajuputi” is a Malysian word meaing “white tree.”  Its main action is that it fights viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Traditionally it has been used for its antiseptic, antiparasitic and local analgesic properties by the Australian aborigines. This is a relatively safe oil that can be diluted and rubbed on the body or put in a capsule and taken up to 3x a day as needed.

Melaleuca quinquenervia, commonly called Niaouli is 35-65% 1,8 cineole. Also native to Australia, this is a very safe and gentle oil that can be applied liberally and undiluted to the whole body. it is noted for its hormonal balancing properties. The pollen of niaouli trees is a powerful allergen and is considered responsible for the great increase in allergic conditions in Florida since many of these trees were transplanted in the everglades area. This points to one of the most important qualities of niaouli. It is one of the most powerful anti-allergenics in aromatherapy acting in a homeopathic fashion–like cures like.  It’s action is similar to tea tree in that it is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic and vasodilating. It main effect though is expectorant. It can be inhaled and rubbed on th body but is not recommended for internal use.

Melaleuca ericifolia, commonly referred to as Rosalina is 34-45% linalool and only 10-20% 1,8 cineole. This is a relatively new oil from Australia and is considered gentler than tea tree oil. The cineole makes it an effective decongestant and expectorant. The high linalool content will make it a very relaxing oil therefore it should be used in the evening before going to bed. It is an excellent choice for children’s infections especially infections of the ear, nose and throat. You can dilute 1 part oil to 1 part vegetable oil or use it undiluted on the body. It can be directly inhaled, diffused or used as a dietary supplement. It is an exceptionally gentle oil when applied neat.

There you have it. In the last few posts I have looked at several eucalyptus and melaleuca oils that are helpful in addressing the symptoms of springtime allergies. To find out more about how you can live a healthier life by using nature’s medicines, go to http://www.ISHAhealing.com to see our courses in clinical aromatherapy.