Kanuka

Leptospermum ericoides

Origin: Aotearoa, New Zealand
Family: Myrtaceae
Part used: Leaves

The Kanuka is a tree endemic to Aotearoa, New Zealand and can grow up to 30 metres tall. It is adaptable to many different habitats and is very tolerant of drought, flooding, strong winds and frost. The wood is very hard and has been traditionally used by Māori to make tools. It has anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral and antifungal properties making it a great treatment for a myriad of conditions.
Often confused with:
Manuka
A strong anti-bacterial and anti-microbial for treating skin conditions and congestion. Gentle aroma.
Tea Tree
A versatile anti-septic and anti-viral for treating skin infections and purifying air. Sharper aroma.
Overview
Fragrance notes
Sweet, resinous and floral with a hint of crushed eucalyptus. Fresh and earthy.

Blending notes
Blends well with: Cypress, Cinnamon Leaf and all Eucalyptus oils.
History
Māori used the wood of the Kanuka to make tools as it was stronger and more durable than other available woods. It acts as a nurse plant in its natural environment, planted to encourage restoration and effective in erosion control. The Māori used Kanuka to treat dysentery and diarrhoea. It has been reported as beneficial for urinary infections, reducing fever and respiratory complaints. It has also long been used to treat wounds and help heal skin irritations. It was also used to help ward off diseases such as the plague and cholera.

Please note: The traditional uses listed here are for reference only and should not be taken as recommendations for treatment, or cure, of any disease or medical condition. Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes towards improved health and wellbeing.
Uses
Chest and throat
Add 5 drops to a steam inhalation or into 1ml Sweet Almond oil and apply as a chest rub. Repeat as required.

Healthy feet
Add 1-2 drops directly to affected area. Add 10 drops to a footbath after visiting the gym or pools. Enhance the effect with 5 drops of Lemon and 2 drops of Cinnamon Leaf. This recipe can also be used in a foot balm utilising the Untouched Body Cream as a base.

Immune system
Add 5-10 drops to a bath throughout the winter months or during recovery from illness. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Digestive health - probiotic
Add 3 drops to 1 tsp of honey, add to 1/4 cup warm water, stir and sip slowly. Repeat 3 times daily for 10 days.
Safety considerations
Safe when used as directed. Safe to use with other medication when necessary. If accidentally ingested do not induce vomiting, follow with olive oil or milk and seek advice from a health specialist. Avoid contact with eyes - flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Please note: Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes for optimum health and wellbeing. The information here is NOT meant as a recommendation to cure any medical condition or disease.
Ingredients
Key ingredients
100% pure Leptospermum ericoides, distilled leaves, Aotearoa, New Zealand
Key component
alpha-Pinene, Viridiflorol, Limonene, 1,8-Cineol