Cajeput is a tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to Australia and Malaysia, and is commonly used for its medicinal value. Its oil is extracted through steam distillation and contains sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically or taken internally, but should always be diluted and used with caution due to its diaphoretic properties. It is generally considered safe, but should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Cajeput (Melaleuca leucadendra and Melaleuca minor) is a tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. Like other myrtles, this tree sports alternating evergreen leaves. In keeping with family tradition, the cajeput and its more than 200 cousins are commonly referred to as paperbarks or punk trees. While many people aren’t familiar with cajeput specifically, they may have heard of another close relative: Melaleuca alternifolia, more commonly known as the tea tree.
While this particular species is native to Australia and Malaysia, it is grown elsewhere for the medicinal value of the volatile oil in the leaves and twigs. In fact, some of the largest producers of cajeput essential oil are Vietnam and the islands of Indonesia, especially Sulawesi. Because this tree is found in abundance throughout the Malay archipelago and peninsula of Southeast Asia, the cajeput tree received its name from the Malay word kayu putih, which translates to “white wood.”
Cajeput oil is characterized by a camphor-like odor similar to eucalyptus. To produce the oil, the leaves are harvested when the weather is dry and hot to ensure maximum concentration. The leaves are then mashed, mixed with water and left to ferment overnight. Subsequently, the oil is extracted by steam distillation. As a medicine, the oil can be used topically or taken internally.
The main active constituents of cajeput are sesquiterpenes, especially alpha-terpineol, terpinen-4-ol, farnesol, linalool and 1,8 cineole. Farnesol is a natural pesticide and pheromone that discourages the replication of many viruses, including Candida albicans. Cineole, also known as eucalyptol or cajeputol, has been the subject of numerous studies in which the substance has demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation. For example, it relieves headaches, nasal discharge associated with rhinosinusitis and sinusitis, and chest congestion resulting from bronchitis. It is also used as a flavoring agent for mouthwash, throat lozenges, and many other products.
Whether used internally or externally, cajeput should always be diluted. When blended with a carrier oil as a topical remedy, it is effective in treating minor skin irritations, insect stings or bites, acne, cold sores, hemorrhoids, and muscle or joint pain associated with rheumatism and arthritis. Taken internally, the oil is anthelmintic and is used to expel intestinal parasites. It is also carminative, which improves digestion and prevents flatulence. However, cajeput also produces diaphoretic properties and can produce profuse sweating and rapid pulse when taken in large quantities.
In general, cajeput is considered safe and has no known side effects or drug interactions. It can also help the therapeutic activity of some drugs. In fact, studies have shown that when combined with conventional antibiotics, the rate of recovery from the infection is substantially faster. However, due to its diaphoretic action, care should be taken to avoid overuse. Additionally, it is advised to avoid using cajeput oil in any form while pregnant and breastfeeding.
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