14 Uses for Cajeput Essential Oil

What is Cajeput Essential Oil?

Cajeput essential oil is a warming, camphorous oil that wears many hats. This oil is steam-distilled from the twigs and leaves of the cajeput tree and the paperbark tree. Cajeput oil has many health benefits, it can be used as a pain reliever and a natural way to treat respiratory systems in distress.

Native to Australia, Malaysia, and Indonesia, this essential oil is often compared to tea tree oil. The Cajuput tree is in the same family as the tee tree- melaleuca. Tea tree oils are extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia, while cajeput is from Melaleuca Cajuputi or Melaleuca Leucadendra ( var. cajuputi). Both oils do share some similar qualities, a camphor aroma for one, however, cajeput oil has its own unique set of benefits and uses.

Cajeput oil is sometimes called Cajuput oil–named closer to the latin name.  The name “Cajeput” comes from the Indonesian word kayu putih, meaning “white wood”.  It will sometimes also be referred to as: Minyak Kayu Putih.  Any of these names all refer to the same oil–Cajeput.

Tea tree oil and cajeput oil are both steam-distilled from the leaves and twigs. However, chemically, there are distinct component differences between tea tree oil and cajeput oil.
The biggest chemical differences are:

Cajeput contains higher concentrations of 1,8 Cineole (Eucalyptol), limonene, and alpha-Terpineol. Tea tree oil contains more Terpinen-4-ol and gamma-Terpinene. Therefore, cajeput has some properties similar to those found in Eucalyptus (from the Eucalyptol) and Lemon (from the limonene).

As you can see below, the Compounds making up the two oils are significantly different.

Cajeput Oil Composition vs. Tea Tree Oil

Compound makeup of Cajeput Oil:

• 1,8-Cineole 44.8%– 60.2%
• Alpha-Terpineol 5.9%– 12.5%
• Limonene 4.5%– 8.9%
• Beta-Caryophyllene 3.8%– 7.6%

Compounds makeup of Tea Tree Oil:

• Terpinen-4-ol 37.0%– 46.9%
• Gamma-Terpinene 10.0%– 28.0%
• 1,8-Cineole 3.0%– 3.6%
• Para-Cymene 0.5%– 12.0%
• Alpha-Terpinene 7.9%– 10.4%

All the data for essential oils compositions are from this book: Johnson, Dr. Scott A. (2015-07-14). Evidence-Based Essential Oil Therapy: The Ultimate Guide to the Therapeutic and Clinical Application of Essential Oils 

Blending Cajeput Oil

Cajeput essential oil blends well with eucalyptus, clove, bergamot, angelica, lavender, geranium, and thyme oil.

Cajeput essential oil has many health and medicinal properties, making it essential to keep in your medicine cabinet or first aid kit.

1) Antiseptic

Cajeput oil is effective in fighting infections, serving as a bactericide, antiviral, and fungicide. Keep this antiseptic oil in your first aid kit and apply topically to cuts and wounds to keep them clean and free of infection.

2) Decongestant

If you are suffering from an illness that has you all clogged up, cajeput oil, just like eucalyptus essential oil, is a great way to open up stuffed-up airway passages. Cajeput oil gives immediate relief, eliminating mucous clogging up your nose and throat.

Cajeput oil also alleviates cough, prevents respiratory system infection, and soothes respiratory inflammations such as laryngitis, bronchitis, and pharyngitis.

Some asthma and allergy sufferers should test inhaling small amounts to ensure the high Eucalyptol levels do not cause a reaction.

3) Aromatherapy

This uplifting oil works great in a diffuser. Inhale the healing vapors of Cajeput essential oil if you are congested, anxious, or simply want to experience its fresh scent.

Infusing this essential oil is not suitable for those suffering from asthma, as inhaling Cajeput essential oil can trigger an asthma attack. The limonene content might also make this oil unsuitable for ultrasonic aromatherapy diffusers. Check the diffuser manufacturers’ recommendations.

4) Circulation

The warming effect of Cajeput oil helps promote circulation, improve the functioning of your organs, and activate vital secretions. Also a stimulant, Cajeput oil promotes secretion of the Endocrine glands while encouraging your sweat glands. By encouraging healthy sweating, you effectively remove the toxins from your body.

5) Pain Reliever

Cajeput oil is known to be analgesic in nature, meaning that it reduces the feeling and sensations of pain. Applied locally and internally, Cajeput essential oil is a great natural pain reliever that can alleviate any ache. Applying this locally will bring instant relief if you have a toothache or an infected tooth.

When under the supervision of a physician and highly diluted, you can ingest Cajeput oil to reduce achy muscles and joints resulting from colds and fever.

6) Arthritis

For those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or achy joints, take note: Cajeput essential oil can be massaged onto achy joints when added to a lotion or ointment. This essential oil not only alleviates pain but also helps to reduce inflammation. Alternatively, you could add a few drops to a bath to soak in the benefits.

7) Muscle Cramps

Cajeput essential oil is considered an antispasmodic, meaning it soothes muscle cramps.

8) Fever Reducer

Cajeput oil takes a two-pronged approach when it comes to reducing a fever. First, it fights infection that causes your body temperature to rise. While it eliminates infection from your body, it also stimulates your sweat glands, helping to cool down your body.

9) Eliminates Gas

Gas is painful, uncomfortable, and embarrassing. Fortunately, if you have a little vial of Cajeput essential oil in your medicine cabinet, you can put your gaseous problems behind you. Cajeput essential oil works as a carminative, meaning it not only provides immediate relief, but it also inhibits the formation of gas and removes the gas lurking in your intestines.

This essential oil is also a great digestive aid, promoting the secretion of digestive juices enzymes to help effectively break down food and absorb its nutrients. This soothing oil helps prevent such digestive disorders as colic, indigestion, cramps, dysentery, and enteritis.

10) Skin Care

Cajeput essential oil works at a great astringent to include in your daily skincare routine. The antibacterial properties of this oil not only prevent infection and blemishes from forming on your skin, but it also helps to tone the skin while revealing a radiant glow. Cajeput is often used in commercial cosmetics and antiseptic creams for these very reasons.

11) Psoriasis and Scabies

When applied topically, this antiseptic oil is also great for treating fungal skin infections. Dilute a couple of drops of Cajeput essential oil in a carrier oil and apply it to the skin. This will fight the fungus responsible for psoriasis and scabies and serve as a great prevention measure for those who chronically suffer from fungal skin problems.

12) Insect Repellent

Cajeput essential oil is a great way to keep insects away if you are planning on spending time outdoors. Diluting Cajeput oil with a carrier oil and rubbing it on your skin will protect you from insects, particularly mosquitoes and their stinging bites.

13) Intestinal Worm

Under the direct supervision of a physician and diluted with water, the antibacterial properties of this oil may kill worms in your intestines.

Again, please read about ingesting oils.  In general, it is not recommended without guidance.

14) Cajeput Oil for Henna

Another use for Cajeput oil is in Henna for your Hair.  According to “The Henna Page,” Cajeput, Tea Tree, and Ravensara are all excellent additions to darken Henna.  It is the terpenes in these oils that do the work.  Tea Tree has the highest terpene levels but Cajeput should be very close–and typically has a better smell.

People Also Ask / FAQ

What is cajeput oil?

Cajeput oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and twigs of the cajeput tree, scientifically known as Melaleuca cajuputi. It is well-known for its fresh, camphoraceous scent and is commonly used for its therapeutic properties in traditional medicine.

How do you use cajeput essential oil?

Cajeput essential oil can be used in various ways. You can add a few drops to a bowl of hot water for respiratory issues and inhale the steam. For muscle and joint pain, dilute it with a carrier oil and massage the affected area. It can also be added to bathwater or used in a diffuser to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

What is cajeput oil good for?

Cajeput oil is beneficial for a range of ailments. It is particularly good for respiratory issues like colds, coughs, and flu due to its decongestant properties. It also helps relieve muscle and joint pain, reduce inflammation, and treat skin infections. Additionally, it can be used as an insect repellent.

Does cajeput oil have antimicrobial properties?

Yes, cajeput oil has strong antimicrobial properties. It is effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a popular choice for treating infections, disinfecting wounds, and as an ingredient in natural cleaning products. Its antimicrobial action helps prevent the spread of germs and supports overall health.