You may have heard of Manuka honey because of all its healing properties, but have you heard of Manuka essential oil? It’s an aromatic essential oil with a fresh, spicy aroma and a ton of amazing benefits for your skin. Manuka is a potent oil that has the ability to help fight seasonal illnesses. Made from steaming the leaves of the Manuka tree, this precious oil has been used as a skin tonic by the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand, who use it to improve their well-being and to treat health complaints.
History of Manuka Oil
Manuka is a relatively new essential oil in western Aromatherapy, but the natives of New Zealand have known about its health properties for ages. It comes from the same family of trees as Tea Tree, Eucalyptus and Myrtle. According to folklore, Captain Cook used Manuka leaves in a tea to cure himself and his crew of scurvy.
Manuka oil has countless benefits for overall health and for skincare concerns, which is why its popularity has skyrocketed in the last few years. If you are curious about trying Manuka oil, check out these ways it can benefit your skincare routine.
Cleanser
Manuka oil is full of powerful cleansing properties which make it great for helping to keep the skin clean and clear. It can help to soothe skin and protect against the redness and irritation that comes with blemishes and breakouts.
Dry Skin
This beauty secret of the Maori people can also be a powerful moisturizer. Manuka essential oil helps keep skin hydrated and helps rejuvenate the outer layers. Similar to Tea Tree, Manuka essential oil can help reduce the discomfort, redness, and itching associated with dry, irritated skin. Add 1-2 drops of Manuka to 1 Tsp carrier oil to use as an all-over moisturizer or add 6-8 drops to a tablespoon of your natural lotions and body creams.
Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, you might be under the impression that you need to stay away from topical oils. That’s just not true! It’s a common misconception that you shouldn’t use oils on oil-prone skin. But really, if your skin is too dry it can cause your skin to overproduce oil, and that could actually lead to an overproduction of oil. Manuka essential oil helps balances the oil levels in your skin while it moisturizes.
Dry Scalp
Scalp irritation can cause flaky, dry skin that itches. Manuka oil can help prevent scalp irritation and assist in restoring moisture to dry skin. It can also help improve the balance of oils on your scalp, keeping it healthy helping avoid itch. Make a simple Manuka scalp treatment by adding 2-3 drops to 1 Tbsp. of carrier oil, and massaging it into your scalp.
Deodorant
An overproduction of bacteria is the main culprit causing your body odor. Manuka essential oil has a super-power ability to fight germs, which makes it a fragrant natural deodorant when used under your arms inn a natural deodorant.
Bug Bites
Insect bites hurt! If you experience the sting and itch of a nasty bug bite, try applying a small amount of Manuka essential oil diluted to 5% in aloe vera jelly. It can help soothe the redness and irritation associated with bug bite symptoms. Remember to always seek medical attention for more severe bites and stings!
Final Thoughts
There are many ways you can use Manuka oil topically for luscious skin. You can also add it to your laundry when washing your towels and linens to keep the fabrics that touch your skin ultra-clean and fresh. Try diffusing it when you are struggling or stressed. It can help to calm the mind and soothe your senses, promoting well-being. Don’t forget to take care of your emotional health because when we feel good, you look good too!
I just ordered manuka and super excited to use it. 🙂
I bought manuka oil a while ago to put in my ezcema potion. I am so excited to try out some of these other uses, especially the deodorant!
Great post. I’m really hoping to get Manuka in my next order. I’m almost certain it will become a staple in my collection!
Recently my mom complain that she have a very dry skin, I think I should get this for her…
Will be trying this on my teen son’s acne! Thanks for all the ideas & info, PT!!
It sounds like I need to add Manuka to my wish list!!
Love manuka, a native plant where I live (New Zealand), recently using it with other oils to help ward off a cold. Great for when you have respiratory issues.
I have been interested in Manuka for awhile now, but have several essential oils. Is Manuka more effective than Tea Tree or just an alternative with similar properties?
Amber, I wouldn’t say one is more effective than another as a general statement. They are from two different plants, and while they have similar benefits, one could be more effective than another, depending on what you are looking for in the oil.
Thank you for this article. I have been looking for some skincare using oils
Thank you. I’m excited to try it!
This is definitely going on my wish list! So many uses and I had no idea you can use it for deodorant. I use manuka honey but had no idea there was an EO. <3
I look forward to using Manuka oil for balancing my combination skin type. I could even use it to even my skin tone due to acne scars.
Sounds amazing! Great ideas for how to use it. Thank you!
This post is super helpful since I just picked up this oil with the 15% off code. I have some pretty stubborn adult/hormonal acne (thank you, PCOS) so I am planning to include this in my skin care routine. Thank you, PT!! ❤️
That’s great Annie! We think that will work out nicely for you 🙂
Oh wow never thought manuka can have an essential oil! Yes I’ve only heard of manuka honey. This oil will be in my next purchase! I love tea tree and probably will like this too.
It’s an amazing oil and if you’re a fan of Tea Tree, we think you’ll love Manuka!
It seems Manuka is just what I was looking for – an oil to add to my hands lotion to aid the dryness and reduce scars mark. I’ll add this to my wish list. Thanks for the informative post.
You’re welcome!
These are great ideas, can’t wait to try!
Great information and very inspiring. Will have to add manuka oil to my wish list. Thank you Plant Therapy!
You won’t regret it!
Man! I just heard of Manuka, and I loved reading about all of its uses. I’m going to look into the deodorant aspect of the oil because I have three middle school boys!
I got this just recently. Great info . Will definitely try some of these
This is great, really inspiring me to make some DIY items with my new bottle. Will def like to try in a deodorant. Do you have any recipes for this?
Also, does Manuka even out skin tones?
Yes! Here is a link to a DIY natural deodorant: https://www.planttherapy.com/blog/2017/05/23/diy-deodorant/
Manuka is very helpful in rejuvenating skin and may have some benefits for evening skin tone
I’m very interested as someone who has oily skin! Might be something worth trying!
Thanks for all the great ideas for Manuka essential oil. I plan on adding it to my “Boo Boo” blend. I use it for all the little bug bites, scrapes and even eczema. Also manuka smells better than tea tree so that is a great addition.
Do you have any good DIY recipes for Manuka on the skin. My husband has Eczema on his arms and legs.
Sharon, you can use the recipe under the dry skin paragraph for this 🙂
Thank you for all the uses for Manuka eo. I have been using this oil in my cuticle balm and now will add it to my hair serums.
I love that I learned something new on your blog! I never knew manuka could be used for bug bites. I will certainly keep this in mind. Thank you!
You’re welcome!
Thanks for this wonderfully enlightening post…another oil with so many great uses. My wish list is growing and growing!
I know what I’m buying next!
How to make a spray deodorant with this oil?
Dave, we have updated this post to a natural deodorant rather than a spray deodorant. Here is a link to the recipe for a DIY Natural Deodorant: https://www.planttherapy.com/blog/2017/05/23/diy-deodorant/
I added a drop of PT’s Manuka Oil to a couple teaspoons of shampoo. It took care of my itchy dry scalp after using it just one time!
That’s wonderful to hear! Thank you for sharing 🙂
I’ve been loving this as part of my facial serum at night with Younger Glo! How would I make the underarm spray? What would be the carrier liquid? Thank you:)
Megan, this post has been updated to recommending a natural deodorant which can be found here: https://www.planttherapy.com/blog/2017/05/23/diy-deodorant/
Manuka is on my wish list. I am so excited about reaping all the benefits, as I have dry scalp, combination skin, and would like to try my hand at homemade deodorant as my underarms are very sensitive,
I enjoy all the wonderful info you provide us! I had been using manuka for my dry cuticles. I think I’m going to give it a spin in a deodorant and add some to a facial moisturizer. Thank you
I had no idea it had so many benefits.
I too have been curious about this oil; with manuka honey being such a “big thing” these days. I know you aren’t allowed to give advice on safety with pets, so can I ask you this? If you had a cat in your home & tea tree is a big NO; would you feel comfortable using manuka as an alternative?
Nikki, that is a great question but as we are not currently trained on the use of oils with animals, I do not have a safe answer to that. I would recommend doing further research to ensure it would be safe for the animals in your home.
The Animal Desk Reference II by Dr Melissa Shelton says “at this time, Manuka is not commonly used with animals, but it does appear to be of low concern”. I hope this helps.
As you know, oil and water don’t mix so, I believe you need to add 1) an emulsifyer to your deodorant, as you are basically using the oil neat on your skin and 2) a preservative.. or you can use 190 proof alcohol and accomplish both!
I recently read somewhere that Manuka can help restore color to the nail bed. Can this be true?
Peggy, I have not tried this personally but have heard that it does help restore the nail bed color
Very informative. I will definitely try this. I have a bottle sitting there waiting to be used. Thanks for the ideas.
Thank you for this post. I’ve added it to my wishlist. I have scalp issues so I’m really excited to add this to my next order!
Manuka is a great choice to help with dry scalp! Hope you enjoy it
I have a large bottle of Manuka that I have wondered about using, I know now I will be adding it to some skin care–thanks!
Didn’t know Manuka has so many used! Can’t wait to try some of them:)
Great! I happen to have an unopened bottle of manuka waiting for something just like this. Thank you for sharing, PT!
I just bought this oil as well, so I’m glad I came across this post! I’m definitely going to try it with the scalp treatments and face serums I’ve been trying. I bet my son would love to add it to his bug bite roller, too!
It has so many great uses, it seems everyone can enjoy it!
I have really oily skin. How would I apply this topically? Nervous to use a carrier…
Krista, I also have naturally oily skin. I would dilute between .5-1% for the face, and use a carrier oil with a low comedogenic(pore cloggin) rating. I use Argan and Grapeseed 🙂
Can you really use Manuka as a deodorant without diluting it with a carrier oil? Just water?
Sorry for the confusion there. The post has been updated to recommend a natural deodorant. You can use Manuka in this deodorant recipe: https://www.planttherapy.com/blog/2017/05/23/diy-deodorant/
Thank you for this post! I loved learning about all of the benefits of Manuka oil and can’t wait to try it out.
We can’t wait for you to try that either!
For the underarm spray, do I understand correctly, you don’t use an emulsifier or anything but water?? I didn’t think oil and water mix.. I’m confused. Thank you.
Connie, I apologize for the confusion. We have updated the Deodorant to a natural one that you can learn more about here: https://www.planttherapy.com/blog/2017/05/23/diy-deodorant/
I am really enjoying Manuka. It blends well with sooo many oils. Do you have spray deodorant recipe?
Evie, at this time we only have the DIY for the stick deodorant. I would be happy to pass along a suggestion for a spray though! You may be able to find other recipes for that online 🙂
So many uses in one bottle! I can’t believe how this one oil covers so many of my household issues. Irritated skin, dry/itchy scalp,allergies can all be helped. This is definitely going to become a staple in our house.
Manuka really is an amazing oil with so many great uses!
Looking forward to receiving this. It sounds great for dry skin, bug bites, as well as a host of other issues. Plant Therapy has the best information – very educational. Love PT!
Becky, we think you will find this oil very helpful for all of the above!
I dilute this into my kids’ bath to help with their eczema. I love how PT puts a kidsafe stamp clearly on the labels!
We love to educate our customers on safe use 🙂
Just signed up at PT. Just recently learn about oils and trying different brands. I might stay on PT because of its Kids safe as I have a 2.5 year old and wanted him to get the benefits of the oils too and make sure that the oils he is inhaling is safe for him. Thank you also for sharing about the Manuka, putting it on my basket now.
Welcome to the Plant Therapy Family! We’re so happy to have you and help you throughout your Essential Oil journey 🙂
I’m thinking of adding this to the Plant Therapy Evening Primrose cream for moisturing. This will be a great addition to my skin care routine!
That sounds like a great idea!
Recently got manuka oil and it already worked wonders on bug bites – itching, redness gone within an hour. Also noticed calming, soothing properties when diffused. Can’t wait to try it in other applications. A definite keeper!
Thank you for sharing, Alli!
Just learned about Plant Therapy Oils, so excited to try all the spotlight oils! Especially this one… never heard of it until now, but it sounds like a must have! Thanks PT!
You’re welcome! Stay tuned as we will have a new Spotlight oil announced tomorrow! This is a great way to learn about oils that may be overlooked
Thank you for this post! Just bought manuka and I’m excited to use it! Love all these ideas ❤️❤️
We’ve been trying a blend of lavender, frankincense and tea-tree diluted in FCO to combat my son’s eczema, I wonder if this would be a good addition to the roller?
Lindsey, I think Manuka would be an excellent addition to your roller bottle! Just be sure you are diluting properly for your son 🙂
This sounds like such a great oil! Glad to know all the different ways to use it.
Thank you for this post! I knew Manuka had great skincare benefits, but I wasn’t really sure how to go about using it! Now I have lots of ideas. I especially love the one for bug bites! I am a mosquito magnet!!
You’re very welcome Jenni! So glad we could help introduce some more uses of Manuka Oil for you