Manuka Vs. Melaleuca Oil
Manuka and melaleuca oils are tea tree oils often used for medicinal and beautification purposes. They derive from related trees found primarily in Australia and New Zealand.
Manuka Oil
Manuka oil is distilled from the leaves of the Leptospermum scoparium tree, which is indigenous to New Zealand and parts of Australia.
Melaleuca Oil
Most commercially found tea tree oils are distilled from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, a tree native to Australia. It is "active against all three categories of infectious organisms: bacteria, viruses and fungi," according to Anitra C. Carr, Ph.D., of the Linus Pauling Institute.
Similarities
Because of their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oils can be used topically to treat conditions such as acne, cold sores, skin inflammations, dandruff and other conditions. As with any medication, consult your doctor if you appear to be suffering any worse or adverse reactions.
Differences
While the oils are similar in terms of the properties they offer, the trees themselves have their own unique qualities. For example, the manuka tree--but not the melaleuca tree--produces a type of honey that is being studied for its antibacterial properties.
Fun Fact
The name "tea tree oil" originates from the famed British explorer Captain James Cook, who named the tree after learning to brew tea from its leaves, a recipe long practiced by native Australians.
Tags: from leaves, tree oils, distilled from, distilled from leaves, Manuka Melaleuca