Produced by steam distillation of fresh leaves and twigs from cajeput trees, cajeput oil contains several active properties such as cinetol and phytol, which are beneficial to health. Once the oil is diluted properly and tested for allergic reactions, it can be used on the hair and skin without unwanted reactions. Keep reading to learn about the uses of cajeput oil:
For Skincare
You can incorporate the use of cajeput oil in your skincare routine, but first, carry out a patch test on a small area of your skin, preferably the inner arm. Allow the oil to sit for 24 hours before rinsing it off. If you do not go through any side effects, you can proceed to apply the oil to larger areas of your skin. Applying it directly to slight wounds, scratches, and rashes. You can also add the oil to your source boost.
Cajeput oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to keep the skin super clean while preventing your wounds and cuts from getting infected. It may also help with chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and acne from forming on the skin.
For Hair
Another use of diluted cajeput oil is the application as the antiseptic properties in the oil may help to treat the scalp concerns like dandruff. All you have to do is massage the oil into your scalp directly or you can add some drops of the essential oil into your shampoo before use.
In Aromatherapy
Even though it is wrong to inhale cajeput oil from its bottle, you can add the oil into a diffuser for aromatherapy. The aroma of the oil may provide temporary relief from headaches and congestion.
What Can You Use With Cajeput Oil?
You can mix your diluted cajeput oil with lavender oil, thyme, rose, cardamom, rosewood, geranium, and nutmeg oils. Cajeput oil blends so well with any of these oils, while the oil works to provide additional benefits.
Precautions When Using Cajeput Oil
Cajeput oil is a powerful oil that is capable of causing potential side effects if not used properly. Ensure that you carry out a patch test before you go ahead to add the oil to your skincare or haircare. You can do a patch test by applying a diluted version of the oil on your wrists, and wait up to 48 hours to check for allergic reactions. If you experience any side effects or irritation within the 48 hours, discontinue the use of cajeput oil on your skin. If you didn’t experience any irritation throughout the test period, you can incorporate the oil into your routine safely.
Before you apply the oil to your hair or skin topically, ensure that you dilute it with a carrier oil first. If you have sensitive skin, start with just three drops of cajeput oil for every ounce of carrier oil to prevent your skin from unwanted irritation.
When using the oil in aromatherapy, ensure that you do not inhale the aroma directly, as that can worsen breathing problems. Using too much cajuput oil on your skin can cause more damage than good, as it is an active ingredient that is capable of irritating the skin. It can also trigger the membrane and cause unnecessary headaches.
Potential Side Effects of Using Cajuput Oil
Since cajuput oil is a powerful ingredients, it’s one right that it can trigger some side effects when used improperly. Some of the symptoms of these side effects include:
- Skin redness
- Rashes
- Hives
- Irritation
- Burning sensation