Cajeput Essential Oil

Latin name Melaleuca cajuputi – Family species Myrtaceae

Melaleuca cajuputi is also known as Melaleuca minor, Cajuput, White Tea Tree (due to the color of the wood and it is in the same family as tea tree), White Wood, Swamp Tea Tree, Punk Tree, and Paperbark Tree.

From Shirley Price’s Aromatherapy Workbook, “Each country or area seems to have its own panacea for most problems; if enough research were done it may be discovered that tea tree and lavender are not the only ‘use it for everything’ essential oils. We have found cajuput, geranium and lemon oils to be equally all-embracing.” She writes that used “in the Far East for colds, sore throats and headaches, cajuput has proved its ability in these respects in other countries. It is useful in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, varicose veins, sinusitis and gastric problems.”

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Pale yellow-green
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Strong, camphoraceous, medicinal (like Tea Tree, but sweeter and fruity)
Perfume Aroma – Top / middle note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Tree
Parts Used – Leaves, Twigs
Countries of Origin – Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Java, Australia
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

Cineol, terpineol, terpinyl acetate, pinene, nerolidol

Applications and Uses

Used in some aromatherapy applications, Cajeput can also be found in pharmaceutical products and dentistry. Cajeput is also used as fragrance in detergents, soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes, and sometimes used as flavoring in commercial food and drinks.

Cajeput blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

It is cautioned that Cajeput oil should not be used if pregnant.
It is also said that Cajeput oil should only be used in moderation (if at all), and that higher concentrations may cause irritation.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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