Kanuka

Kanuka and manuka are often confused, and sometimes sold as one plant. They are not. Kanuka was once classified as Leptospermum ericoides, alongside manuka, but is now placed in Kunzea. Its oil is pinene-led, with none of the triketone fraction that marks manuka.

01 · Origin

Kunzea ericoides is a small tree of the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, native to New Zealand, where it grows on open, regenerating ground. This oil is distilled in New Zealand from the leaves of wild trees, by traditional methods.

02 · Chemistry

Alpha-pinene dominates. Viridiflorol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, gives a soft, woody weight. Limonene and 1,8-cineole add freshness. Comparative work alongside Manuka (No. 2047) and Kunzea (No. 1847) shows three related shrubs with clearly separate profiles.

03 · In Practice

Fresh, sweet and resinous, with a light herbaceous edge and a mild woody tail. A top note that carries into the middle. Diffusion, massage blends, bath preparations and skincare formulation. Blends with manuka, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, cedarwood, bergamot and pine.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.