Cajeput
Cajeput is a tree in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) known for its essential oil, which is derived from its leaves and twigs. The name "cajeput" is derived from the Malay word "kayu putih," meaning "white wood." The tree is native to Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Malay Archipelago.
Description[edit | edit source]
Cajeput trees can grow up to 35 meters in height. They have a distinctive white, spongy bark and lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are green and aromatic, containing oil glands that release a strong, camphor-like scent when crushed. The tree produces small, white or greenish flowers that grow in clusters.
Species[edit | edit source]
The most well-known species of cajeput is Melaleuca cajuputi. Other species include Melaleuca leucadendra and Melaleuca quinquenervia. These species are often collectively referred to as "cajeput trees."
Essential Oil[edit | edit source]
Cajeput oil is extracted through steam distillation of the fresh leaves and twigs. The oil is clear to pale yellow and has a fresh, camphoraceous odor. It is composed mainly of cineole, terpineol, and limonene. Cajeput oil is used in aromatherapy, traditional medicine, and as a component in cosmetics and personal care products.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Traditional Medicine[edit | edit source]
In traditional medicine, cajeput oil is used for its antiseptic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is applied topically to treat skin infections, muscle pain, and respiratory conditions such as cough and cold.
Aromatherapy[edit | edit source]
In aromatherapy, cajeput oil is used to relieve stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. It is also believed to have antimicrobial properties, making it useful in diffusers to purify the air.
Cosmetics and Personal Care[edit | edit source]
Cajeput oil is an ingredient in various cosmetic and personal care products, including soaps, shampoos, and lotions. It is valued for its refreshing scent and potential skin benefits.
Cultivation[edit | edit source]
Cajeput trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. They prefer well-drained soils and can tolerate waterlogged conditions. The trees are often found in swamps, riverbanks, and coastal areas.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
 | This hospital-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
