Manuka

Manuka oil and kanuka oil are often confused. Both are New Zealand Myrtaceae. Kanuka is Kunzea ericoides, once classed in Leptospermum. Manuka is Leptospermum scoparium, and its oil is defined by beta-triketones absent from kanuka.

01 · Origin

Leptospermum scoparium is a shrub or small tree native to New Zealand and south-eastern Australia. It colonises open and regenerating land. This oil is distilled from the leaves of wild stands in New Zealand.

02 · Chemistry

Leptospermone and isoleptospermone, the beta-triketones, are the markers of the oil. trans-Calamenene, cadina-1,4-diene and delta-cadinene make up a substantial sesquiterpene fraction. Chemistry varies across the plant's range, and triketone content is the usual measure of an oil's quality.

03 · In Practice

Warm, earthy and honeyed, with a woody, faintly spicy depth. A middle to base note. Skincare formulation, massage blends and natural perfumery. Comparative work alongside Kanuka (No. 1745) and Tea Tree, m.a. (No. 2780) sets three Myrtaceae side by side. Blends with lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, rosemary, geranium, bergamot and cedarwood.

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.