Manuka Oil: Risks, Benefits & Active Compounds - A Comprehensive Guide

Manuka oil is an alternative topical treatment for various skin ailments, including irritations, rashes, athlete's foot, dandruff, and other minor skin issues. Although it is a natural treatment, it does come with potential dangers.

Additional Uses

• Besides treating skin ailments, manuka oil is used as an analgesic, anti-histamine, anti-infectious, antiseptic, decongestant, and insecticide.

Active Ingredients

• Manuka oil contains caryophyllene, geraniol, pinene, linalol, humulene, and leptospermone.

Pregnancy

• You should avoid using manuka oil during pregnancy because it can cause spasmodic activity.

Reactions

• According to the New Zealand Office of Complementary Medicines, long-term exposure to manuka oil may cause an allergic reaction that could result in, ironically, a skin rash.

  According to drugs.com, researchers from an animal study noticed a sedating effect.

Drug Interactions

• Manuka oil may have adverse interactions with certain prescription drugs. Consult your physician before using.