Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea-tree-bannerTea tree oil is a knight in shining armor as it acts as a shield against all kinds of infections including bacterial, viral, fungal and microbial. It is a must-have essential oil in your medicine cabinet and can assist you in times of distress. Although Tea Tree has nothing to do with the tea we drink, I often remember this magnificent herb as a tea for the entire system that has the potential to heal, pacify and cure us in a number of ways.

The essential oil of Tea tree is extracted from the leaves of this tree. Ayurveda, the science of natural healing makes use of Tea tree and its essential oil for treating many infectious diseases, respiratory problems like asthma, tuberculosis and bronchitis, venomous bites and skin problems like acne, psoriasis and dermatitis.

Purchase Tea Tree Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

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Historical importance of Tea tree oil:

Born in Australia, Tea tree is the love and pride of the Australian kingdom where more than 300 species of Tea trees grow naturally. The Aborigines are regarded as the first ones to use Tea tree leaves before thousands of years as an antiseptic for healing wounds, cuts, burns and insect bites.

It was the British explorer Captain Cook who named this tree as ‘Tea tree’ when he found the native people using the leaves of this tree in preparing a medicated tea and he used this drink to prevent scurvy in his men.

As an excellent antimicrobial and antiseptic oil, Tea tree oil was prevalently used in war fields for healing the wound of soldiers (especially in the Australian Army during World War II) and keeping them protected from the infestation of harmful microbes.

One of the pools in Australia is known as the ‘Magical Lagoon’ just because it was surrounded by Tea trees and leaves fall in the water and make it a medicated bathing pool. People who take bath in this pool have said that it helped in healing burns, wounds and certain other skin infections.

Tea tree oil is held-high for its anti-poisonous effects and is generally known as Snake oil just because the fact that this oil has enormous detoxifying properties that aids in taking way the venom of a poisonous snake bite.

The fresh leave juice was also applied on the affected area for treating scorpion stings and other poisonous insect bites. Tea tree leaves are also used in poultices and the decoction extracted from boiling these leaves are known to heal wounds and inflammations both internally and externally.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Tea tree oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Tea tree oil constitutes of 8 chemical components that contribute to its unique fragrance, remedial properties and quality. Tea tree oil is enriched with about 41.9% of Terpinen-4-ol constituent.

Just click on:

For knowing more about the specific information of these key constituents of Tea tree oil.

The table below on the Gas Chromatography report talks about the principal chemical constituents and its role in granting the therapeutic and other attributes to Tea tree oil.

Teatree-OilRemedial properties of Tea tree oil:

This oil has antimicrobial, fungicidal, antibacterial, antiviral, stimulant, disinfectant, antiseptic, anti-infectious, antipyretic, vulnerary, expectorant, balsamic, cicatrisant, sudorific and insecticide.

The chemical constituents responsible for these therapeutic properties are 1,8-cineole, limonene, terpinen-4-ol, myrcene, a-pinene, linalool, sabinene, a-terpinene, y-terpinene, a-terpineol,  b-pinene a-phellandrene, terpinolene and p-cymene.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Tea tree essential oil:

Ayurveda is a holistic healing methodology that not only treats illnesses but aims to prevent it in future. It does not recommend same remedies for all even with the same disease as it regards that every individual is a unique part of nature and their illnesses should also be treated in a unique way.

For this, Ayurvedic treatment starts with identifying the unique individual constitution that is built up of 3 energy elements known as doshas. They are vata, kapha and pitta dosha. Vata is said to govern the movement of air, metabolic functions, process of elimination and much more.

Pitta is responsible for digestion, decision making, body temperature and creation of energy. The structure of our body, movement of fluids, skin health, stability and lubrication of joints are all controlled by kapha dosha.

Every human being is said to have a predominance of any one of these doshas that determines their personality, character and behavior. Balance between these three doshas indicates that a person is healthy and imbalance causes illness. Ayurvedic remedies like essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic routine are prescribed in such a way that it helps in bringing perfect balance between these doshas.

Tea tree essential oil is said to have equal effects on all the three doshas with its cooling and moisturizing energies. The book on ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ by Light Miller and Bryan Miller states that Tea tree oil is extremely beneficial for skin, respiratory system and nervous system.

Let’s have a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Tea tree essential oil.Tea-tree-broucher1. Benefits to the skin and hair:

Tea tree essential oil has been proved 12 times better than carbolic acid that has been used as an antiseptic bactericide in primeval times. This is mainly because of its effectiveness in treating various skin ailments with its antimicrobial, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, disinfectant and antiviral properties.

Tea tree oil is an excellent remedy for acne and this is substantiated by a 1990 study on ‘A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne’, which states that both Tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide are effective in treating acne.

It says that Tea tree showed “a significant effect in ameliorating the patients’ acne by reducing the number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions (open and closed comedones)” with fewer side effects than BP where about 79 percent of people who used BP had various side effects like dryness, itching, stinging and burning sensation.

This exemplary oil also has antiseptic and cicatrisant properties that promote wounds, boils, cuts, burns and rashes to heal quickly. It reduces scars and marks by stimulating the growth of new skin cells and eliminates the dead skin cells.

Mix 2 drops of Tea tree oil with 15 drops of Jojoba oil or with your skin care cream or lotion and apply it on your acne for visible results and on your wounds for quicker healing. This blend is also effective on scars left by pox, accidents, acne, surgical and stretch marks.

Dandruff and lice are the major hair problems that screw your hair’s health most often. Being an effective fungicidal and antimicrobial oil, Tea tree oil fights against the harmful agents causing dandruff and nourishes the dry scalp with its moisturizing properties and it also kills head lice. Add 2 drops of Tea tree oil in your mild shampoo and massage it gently on your scalp for quick relief.

2. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Having enormous anti-infectious properties, Tea tree oil is one among the best essential oils for fighting against viral infections like cold, cough, congestion and other respiratory problems like sinusitis, bronchitis, tuberculosis, asthma and pharyngitis. Most of these problems start worsening when the infection spreads all over the system.

Tea tree oil fights against all kinds of contagious foreign bodies and arrest their further growth. The expectorant properties of this oil make it powerful in loosening the phlegm and mucous deposits that causes breathing difficulties.

Add 2 to 3 drops of Tea tree oil to warm bathing water and go for a refreshing bath. You can add 2 drops of this oil to steam inhalation for opening blocked nasal passages, treat chest congestion and get relief from headache and sinusitis. You can also add 2 drops of Tea tree oil to your rub and gently massage on your chest, neck and back for significant relief.

3. Benefits to the mind:

With its warm, spicy, refreshing, camphoraceous, soothing, aromatic-terpenic (monoterpenes of pine) fragrance pacifies and encourages the mind. Tea tree oil is said to appease the mind and body after shock, anxiety, fear and fatigue.

Massaging your body with 5 drops of tea tree oil blended with 40 to 45 drops of coconut oil can help in uplifting your mood, relax the muscles, strengthen your emotions and alleviate stress and depression. You can also add 3 drops of Tea tree oil to your burner, diffuser or vaporizer to encircle your mind with a clean and fresh feeling.

4. Guards against all kinds of infections:

Tea tree oil protects the body from harmful organisms and by killing the existing ones and preventing the growth of new ones. It strengthens your immunity and makes your body resistant against the effects of all kinds of infections.

A comparative study of Tea tree oil along with clotrimazole tested 112 people affected by toenails fungal infection and Tea tree oil was proved as powerful as an antifungal remedy. Add 2 drops of Tea tree oil in warm foot bath to cleanse your skin and kill the infectious agents on the skin followed by topical application of 2 drops of Tea tree oil with 8 drops of olive oil can help in treating fungal infections like athlete’s foot, ringworm, fungal infection of the toenails, dermatitis, vaginal infections and other skin ailments caused due to fungi.

The study on ‘Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties’ proved that Tea tree oil is effective in fighting against numerous bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacterium avium, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus pyogenes. This contributes to the antiseptic and antibiotic values of this oil.

This oil has been studied in Europe and US as an effective douching treatment for candida albicans. 5 drops of this oil added to 1 half pint of water can serve as a powerful vaginal douche Susanne Fischer-Rizzi.

Topical application of 2 drops of Tea tree oil mixed with 10 drops coconut oil aids in treating bed sores, psoriasis, abscesses, boils, wounds, insect bites, cold sores, diaper rashes, herpes, dermatitis, genito-urinary infections, cystitis, vaginal thrush, ear infections and deep wounds.

Other health benefits:

Tea tree has become a common ingredient in many popular anti-dandruff shampoos, acne soaps, skin care creams and lotions. It can also be used to treat rheumatic pain, bad breath, oral infections (as a gargle by adding 2 drops of this oil to warm water), cankers, candida, flea bites, jock itch, plantar warts, mosquito bites, sciatica, ticks, seborrhea, sunburn and much more.

Disclaimer: Never use essential oils internally. This article is only for the purpose of educations and is not meant for diagnosis or to replace any prescribed medication or professional advice. Always remember to use essential oils in a diluted form for topical application. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the right essential oil for your health condition and individual body type.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Tea tree essential oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC) of Tea tree oil.

Thought for the day:

Nature teaches more than she preaches. There are no sermons in stones. It is easier to get a spark out of a stone than a moral. -John Burroughs

Suggested Reading:

  1. HEALING POWERS OF TEA TREE OIL (The Aromatherapy Professional: Healing with Essential Oils) By KG Stiles
  2. How to Use Tea Tree Oil – 90 Great Ways to Use Natures “Medicine Cabinet in a Bottle” – Acne, Boils, Head Lice, Nail Fungus, Ringworm, Skin Tags, – Health … Uses, Dilutions and Lots More! (What Is?) By Ruth Elston
  3. How to Use Tea Tree Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) By Miriam Kinai
  4. Australian Tea Tree Oil Guide By Cynthia Olsen

Reference Links:

  1. Tea tree oil by Wikipedia
  2. Tea tree oil by The American Cancer Society
  3. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne by Department of Dermatology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW published in PubMed
  4. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties by C. F. Carson, K. A. Hammer, and T. V. Riley published in Clinical Microbiology Reviews by the American Society For Microbiology

Myrrh Gel Essential Oil

Mrrh-gel-bannerCrowned as one among the first and best gifts to baby Jesus by the Biblical Magi, Myrrh is asserted as a panacea for many diseases and is a symbol of wishing good health and happiness. This sacred herb has its name engraved in almost all the major religious practices of healing and has been in use throughout history as a promising medicine, renowned perfume and sanctified incense.

Myrrh essential oil is hydro distilled from the resin of Myrrh trees. Ayurveda accentuates Myrrh as a trusted remedy for treating arthritis, dysmennorhea, anemia, menopausal problems, bronchitis, asthma, obesity, mouth ulcers, digestive problems, gum diseases, cough and rheumatism. Myrrh resin has been a vital ingredient in many rasayana formulas in Ayurvedic treatment.

Historical importance of Myrrh:

Botanically known as Commiphora myrrha, Myrrh is indigenous to Somalia, Yemen, Ethiopia and Eritrea. The word ‘Myrrh’ is derived from the Aramaic word murr, meaning ‘was bitter’. Myrrh has many religious rituals stringed to its historical fame. The Islamic herbal medicine encyclopedia quotes “The Messenger of Allah stated, Fumigate your houses with al-shih, murr, and sa’tar”, where murr indicates Myrrh.

The book of Matthew states that gold, frankincense and myrrh were among the gifts to Jesus Christ. New Testament cites Myrrh as an incense presented at the time of Christian liturgical celebrations. The Eastern Orthodox Church makes use of Myrrh scented oil as a symbol of tradition during the sacraments of unction and chrismation.

Myrrh was held high in the Traditional Chinese Medicine as a special herb with ‘blood-moving’ powers to eliminate stagnant blood from the uterus and is also effective on spleen meridians, liver and heart. It is for this reason, Myrrh has been used in the treatment of uterine tumors, menopause, amenorrhea, rheumatic problems, dysmennorhea, arthritis and other circulatory problems.  It is also said that Myrrh has been used in the Chinese ma yao since 600 BC.

It is said that the Greek soldiers took Myrrh with them to the battlefield for cleansing and healing their wounds, as this herb has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It was used by the ancient Egyptians for treating hay fever, herpes and also in fumigations and embalming.

This herb is used in folklore medicine in making rheumatic plasters and for treating muscular pains. Tibetans trust the magical powers of Myrrh to assuage stress and certain other nervous disorders.

Myrrh is a popular ingredient in many liniments, tooth powders, gargles, toothpastes and mouthwashes especially for its antiseptic and analgesic properties that aid in treating many oral problems, wounds and skin ailments.  It is also used in making tinctures for healing wounds in the Veterinary practice. Assyrians and Babylonians burned Myrrh during religious ceremonies.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Myrrh essential oil:

The remedial values of Myrrh gel essential oil are analgesic, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, antiseptic, antimicrobial, carminative, stimulant, tonic, stomachic, astringent, antifungal, circulatory, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, anti-catarrhal, immune booster and expectorant. The chemical components contributing to these properties are eugenol, triterpenoids, polysaccharides, a-pinene, limonene, cresol, triterpene acids, cadinene, cuminaldehyde, sesquiterpenes and acetic acid.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Myrrh gel essential oil:

Myrrh is a part of many Ayurvedic medications, especially for its positive effects on the nervous system and the circulatory system. Everything in Ayurveda has a strong reason behind it and that is the focus on treating the root cause of an illness and preventing it in the future also.

Ayurvedic practices do not treat human beings and their illnesses as one among the ten instead it believes that every individual is unique by birth and each and every one of their health condition needs to be treated in a unique manner.

Ayurvedic principles trust that every one of us on earth is built up of three vital energies known as doshas. They are kapha, pitta and vata doshas. The wisdom of Ayurvedic healing lies in its holistic and inimitable approach towards humanity by identifying their attributes, personal traits and health mechanism based on their predominant dosha.

Generally vata predominant people are lean, tall, creative and have a dark complexion and its imbalance causes constipation, stress, sleeplessness, anxiety and loss of sexual interest. People with the predominance of pitta dosha have a fair complexion, sharp decision making skills, short temper and are perfectionists.

Pitta imbalance leads to loss of temper and digestive disorders like heartburn and ulcers. Kapha predominant people are kind at heart, affectionate and obese with an average complexion. Imbalance of kapha energy will lead to overweight, sluggishness and poor process of digestion.

Ayurvedic remedies are based on your individual constitution and center natural medications to treat the imbalance of doshas. Myrrh essential oil is known to pacify vata and kapha energies and increase pitta dosha.

It’s time to have a look at the Ayurvedic health benefits of Myrrh gel essential oil.

Myrrh-gel-broucher1. Protects from the infestations of microbes and other harmful organisms:

Myrrh essential oil is known for its anti-fungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties. It assists in killing bacteria, fungi and certain other detrimental microbes by making the body resistant to such infections.

Myrrh oil has natural breath freshening properties that aid in treating bad breath known as halitosis. Add 2 drops of Myrrh oil in warm water and use it as a gargle for treating oral problems like toothaches, pyorrhea, abscesses, mouth ulcers, gingivitis and gum problems. This blend also helps in fighting bacteria causing cavities.

Applying 2 drops of Myrrh oil blended along with coconut oil on wounds, cuts, athletes foot, and other skin infections will aid in preventing the wound from getting septic as Myrrh oil fights Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria responsible for wounds becoming septic. This oil is also used in treating cough, measles, pox, cold, fever, diarrhea, mumps, food poisoning and other health conditions caused due to microbial infections.

2. Boosts your immunity and fights against cancer:

A weak immune system is the underlying cause for the body becoming vulnerable to diseases and infections. Myrrh essential oil reinforces the immune system and augments the body’s natural disease resistant power by enhancing the body’s nutrient absorption capacity.

This way it protects the body from pathogens in case of airborne or waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cold, cough, dysentery, typhoid, bronchitis, vomiting and few other digestive problems. Add 3 to 4 drops of Myrrh oil with jojoba oil and massage gently on your body. This helps in transmitting the therapeutic molecules of Myrrh oil by penetrating deeply into the skin and to your blood stream.

Myrrh has been proved effective in fighting against the free radicals and aid in preventing cancer. A 2001 study by the Rutgers University in NJ found that Myrrh essential oil has certain compounds that assist in killing cancer cells and showing promising effect for treatment and prevention of prostate and breast cancer.

Elemene has been identified as the unique component of Myrrh essential oil and has been proven to show improved effect on treatment of cancerous brain tumors.  You can add 2 drops to your diffuser for regaining confidence and energy. Gently massage your affected parts with 5 drops of Myrrh oil blended with coconut oil for combating the growth of free radicals worsening the effects of cancer.

3. Cures skin ailments:

Myrrh essential oil has been used as a trusted natural remedy for skin problems since the Biblical times. This is mainly because of the antiseptic, analgesic, vulnerary and astringent properties of this oil.  A 2010 study by King Saud University, Saudi Arabia traced that Myrrh was particularly potential to increase the count of white blood cells in laboratory rats treated for gastric ulcers and skin injuries with Myrrh.

Blending 2 drops of Myrrh oil with coconut oil and applying it on wounds, cuts, boils, athlete’s foot, bed sores, chapped skin, ringworm, eczema, skin ulcers, hemorrhoids, weeping wounds and itches can help heal such skin problems quickly and protect them from infections also.

Myrrh essential oil has been in use as a rejuvenating facial aid for more than hundreds of years mainly due to its ability to invigorate dull skin, revivify mature complexions, reduce wrinkles and leave it glowing from within. Mix 2 drops of Myrrh oil with jojoba oil and rub it on your face soothingly, leave it for 5 minutes and then wash your face with a mild cleanser for nourishing your skin and help it look supple and younger.

4. Abet respiratory problems:

Myrrh essential oil has expectorant and anti-catarrhal properties that help in treating respiratory problems like cold, asthma, sinus infections, cough, sore throat, congestion, bronchitis and breathing difficulties.

Add 2 drops of Myrrh oil to steaming water and inhale the aroma to get immediate relief from chest congestion and to support the expulsion of phlegm from respiratory tracts and lungs. You can also add 2 drops of this oil to hot bath or to your cold rub and gently massage it on the chest, back and throat for instant aid.

5. Assists your digestive system:

Myrrh oil is carminative and stomachic in nature, aiding in relieving gases and promoting the process of digestion. It helps in restoring the appetite, treating indigestion, nausea, flatulence, stomach pain and constipation by stimulating the flow of saliva, bile and other digestive juices. You can either use 2 to 3 drops of Myrrh oil in steam inhalation or diffuser for calming the digestive system. Massaging your tummy and abdomen with 2 drops of Myrrh oil blended with sesame oil can help in easing sluggish digestion.

6. Stimulates the mind:

Myrrh essential oil is said to grant mental clarity, alleviate stress, and treat depression, tension, fatigue and anxiety. It is used in Ayurvedic healing for enhancing the intellect and cleansing the blood. Inhaling the sacred aroma of Myrrh oil during meditation can help in opening the mind, increasing concentration and treating poor memory. Massaging your body with 4 drops of Myrrh oil along with sweet almond oil helps in uplifting the mind, relieving anxiety and nervous tension.

Myrrh essential oil has a calming and pacifying fragrance that helps open the heart chakra that is associated with love, forgiveness and acceptance. 2 drops of Myrrh oil added to burner, vaporizer or diffuser assists in discharging fear, hurting experiences and depressive feelings that stop you from going ahead. Myrrh oil strengthens your spiritual acquaintance, trust and self-confidence.

7. Alleviates pain and inflammation:

Myrrh has been a promising remedy in Ayurveda and other traditional healing methodologies for treating pain, gout, arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The essential oil of Myrrh has diaphoretic properties that increase sweating and helps expel excess water, toxic substances and extra salts from the body.

The anti-inflammatory properties of this oil supports in reducing inflammation. By eliminating the toxic substance and lessening inflammation, Myrrh oil is effective in treating arthritis and rheumatic pain.

Blend 2 drops of Myrrh oil, 2 drops of Frankincense oil along with coconut oil and massage soothingly on the affected parts for relieving pain and inflammation. You can also add 3 drops of Myrrh oil to hot compress or in hot bath for similar effects.

Other health benefits:

Myrrh essential oil is also helpful in treating menstrual cramps, delayed menstruation, uterine problems, hair fall problems and acts as a tonic for the entire system by stimulating the digestive system, nervous system and the circulatory system.

Disclaimer: Never take essential oils internally. Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids so always dilute them in suitable carrier oils before using it for topical application. This article is only for your information and is not meant to replace any prescribed medication or professional advice. Avoid using Myrrh oil if you are a pregnant or nursing woman. Keep it out of reach of children. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the appropriate essential oil for your unique individual constitution and health condition.

Thought for the day:

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.              – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

  1. Frankincense & Myrrh: Through the Ages, and a complete guide to their use in herbalism and aromatherapy today by Martin Watt, Wanda Sellar
  2. The Ayurveda Encyclopedia: Natural Secrets to Healing, Prevention, & Longevity by Swami Sadashiva Tirtha
  3. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless
  4. Sacred Woman: A Guide to Healing the Feminine Body, Mind, and Spirit
    by Queen Afua
  5. Herbal Remedies Bible: Life Saving And Healing Herbs For All Ailments: Easy Herbal Remedies For Over 100 Ailments by Dane Foster

Reference Links:

  1. Myrrh by Wikipedia
  2. Myrrh Essential Oil Can Help Fight Cancer by Ezinearticles.com
  3. A Wise Man’s Cure: Frankincense and Myrrh by Jennie Cohen published in History in the Headlines
  4. Medicinal Qualities of Myrrh by Rebecca Joy Knottnerus published in Dr. Christopher’s Herbal Legacy

Moranga Essential Oil

Loved as  ‘Mother’s Best Friend’ in East Africa and as ‘Never Die’ and ‘Miracle Tree’ all over the world, Moranga is one of the most useful trees in the Cosmos, as every part of this tree including the leaves, stems, seeds, pods, fruits, root and bark has enormous medicinal values. Moranga is known as the best natural hub of antioxidants with 46 antioxidants and 36 anti-inflammatory compounds making it rich and wholesome for mankind.

Ayurveda, the mother of all healing sciences have listed about 300 diseases that can be cured with this wonder herb known as Shigru, Sahijna, Munaga, Shobanjana and Sainjna in the Ayurvedic community. Moranga is scientifically called as Moringa pterygosperma gaertn., or Moringa oleifera, Lam. The name Moringa is extracted from the Tamil name murunga and pterygosperma for its winged seeds or oleifera for its non-drying stable oil with a long shelf life.

Purchase Moranga Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical importance of Moranga and its essential oil: Well-known to the world populace as Drumstick tree, clarifier tree and horseradish tree, Moranga is extremely nutritious and considered as a treasure of India and a fortune to the entire universe. Indians call it a pretty tree with a graceful appearance complimenting its surrounding with natural beauty and freshness. This immortal tree has an exceptionally long traditional usage. The most important among them are listed for your information.

Historical transcripts reveal that drumstick and its leaves were used by the primordial Indian kings and queens in their daily diet to gain enormous energy, retain their good health and treat inflamed joints. The young leaves of this tree are used in folklore medicine for treating common cold, dog bites and scurvy. Fresh Moranga leaves were rubbed against the temples for relieving severe headaches. These leaves are also used in treating fever, inflammation of the mucus membrane, bronchitis, cold, infections of the ear and eye.

Tea prepared with Moranga leaves were used in treating diarrhea, gastric ulcers and stomach pain. Moringa leaves and food products are considered as the best food for people suffering from malnutrition as it is rich in fiber, protein, minerals, vitamins and carbohydrates. It is used in Senegal and India for treating sleeplessness, anxiety, asthma, dysentery, rashes, sores, colitis and added to children’s food to fight malnutrition.

The leaves and twigs are used as a nutritious fodder for farm animals, goats, sheep, camels and other domestic animals. The juice extracted from Moringa flowers is used for treating urinary problems, cold and to enhance the flow and quality of milk in breastfeeding mothers with its tonic, diuretic and cholagogue properties. Moringa flowers are regarded as a good source of pollen for honey bees. The high iron content in Moringa leaves are used to treat anemia in Philippines. Moringa gum is used to treat asthma, tooth decay and rheumatism.

Moringa oil has been used in treating syphilitic wounds, scurvy, hysteria, bladder problems, prostate problems, fungal infections and certain skin complaints.  The villagers in Oman use this oil as a perfume and for treating hair problems and stomachic disorders.  Arabians in the desert used this oil on their face to treat the harmful effects of wind and sun. It was buried in the tombs of Egyptians whereas the Romans used this oil as a basis for perfumery.

Therapeutic properties of Moranga essential oil: The major remedial properties of Moringa essential oil are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antispasmodic, anti-choleric, antifungal, anti-hypertensive, anti-tumor, anticancer, antiulcer, immune stimulant, aphrodisiac, antidiabetic, tonic, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, cholesterol lowering and antioxidant. A study on the ‘Medicinal properties of Moringa oleifera: An overview of promising healer’ have analyzed on numerous therapeutic properties of Moringa oleifera.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Moranga essential oil: Ayurveda, the ancient healing science aged more than 5,000 years has India as its birthplace. This holistic healing methodology have used the most useful tree on earth, Moringa aged more than 4,000 years and has its origin in India. Ayurvedic texts list more than 300 diseases that can be cured with the immaculate healing powers of Moranga tree and its extracts like the essential oil.

The power of Ayurvedic healing deeply vests in its trust on natural remedies. Ayurvedic philosophies state that every living thing on earth is unique in its own way and united in the fact that it is a part of nature. This promising science is optimistic and the simple proof is that it considers illness as an opportunity to find what is wrong in the system.

Ayurvedic treatments do not treat just the disease instead it treats the whole individual. By this way it aims at treating and preventing the illness and not just curing the disease alone. Ayurveda identifies the major root cause responsible for sickness.

Ayurvedic texts strongly state that every individual has his or her own constitution which is made up of three energy elements known as doshas namely pitta, vata and kapha. Balance between these three doshas indicates that the system is hale and healthy and imbalance of any one or all the three doshas is responsible for sickness. Moringa and its essential oil is said to reduce excess kapha and vata and improve deficiency of pitta.

Ayurvedic remedies using Moringa products are used in the treatment of liver problems, urinary infections, dysmennorhea, aid during labor or childbirth, improving the secretion of milk in breastfeeding mothers, anemia, sexual dysfunctions, nervous debility, skin problems and infections caused due to pathogenic organisms. The major health benefits of the essential oil extracted by steam distillation method from the leaves of Moringa tree are:

Enormous benefits for the skin: Moringa essential oil has exceptional benefits for the skin and is mainly due to the presence of rich nutrients and antioxidants in the leaves that support healthy skin. Moringa leaves are known as the powerhouse of nutrition with more than 7 times the vitamin C in oranges, more than 4 times the vitamin A in carrots, more than four times the calcium in milk, more than 3 times the potassium in bananas and more than twice the proteins in milk in each gram.

Moringa essential oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-aging properties that aids in combating numerous skin problems. The effects of aging like wrinkles, dull and lifeless skin are mainly due to the activity of free radicals on the skin. The rich content of about 46 antioxidants in Moringa aids in fighting against all the negative effects of aging on skin.

Moringa oil cleanses, nourishes and nurtures your skin naturally. Blending 3 drops of this oil with little coconut oil and applying this mixture on acne, cuts, scrapes, blackheads, scars, burns, rashes and insect bites will help in quicker healing with its antiseptic and antimicrobial values. Gently massaging your skin with 2 to 3 drops of Moringa oil mixed with olive oil helps augment the elasticity of the skin by nourishing the skin cells, removing dirt gently, killing microbes causing infections, avoiding excessive drying, and moisturizing the skin.

A 2007 study on ‘Anti-fungal activity of crude extracts and essential oil of Moringa oleifera Lam.’, by the Institute of Bioagricultural Sciences, Taiwan have stated that the “essential oil extracted from the leaves of Moringa showed a total of 44 compounds. Isolated extracts could be of use for the future development of anti-skin disease agents.”

Due to these reasons Moringa oil is used as an important ingredient in soaps, facial creams, body wash, facial massage oils and anti-aging creams. You can also add 3 to 4 drops of Moringa oil to your mild skin care cream or lotion for alleviating such skin problems.

More than just a complete food for your system on your shelf: Moringa leaves have Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B7, C, D, E, K and certain other amino acids like leucine, methionine, lysine, isoleucine, threonine, valine, tryptophan and phenylalaine along with a bunch of non-essential amino acids, making it a complete food for the mind, body and soul.

Adding 2 drops of Moringa oil to warm bathing water can help in relieving stress, cleansing your body, granting mental peace and removing fatigue. Massaging your body with 4 drops of Moringa oil blended with almond oil can aid in alleviating rheumatic pain, reduce inflammation with its anti-inflammatory properties, eliminate the excess fluids in your body through urine, boost the immune system and protect your body from harmful infections.

Moringa essential oil is light and it easily spreads and deeply penetrates into the skin. By this way it transforms its vital nutrients into the body, mind and spirit. This oil has also been used as a natural cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt from hair. Massaging your hair and scalp with 3 drops of Moringa oil blended with coconut oil can assist in cleansing your hair, nourishing your scalp, treating dandruff and grant a natural shine to your lustrous locks.

Scientific evidences: The long time Ayurvedic health benefits of Moringa and its essential oil have been proved scientifically through numerous studies. A 2003 study on ‘Hepatoprotective activity of Moringa oleifera on antitubercular drug-induced liver damage in rats’ have proved that treatment with M.oleifera leaves seems to improve the recovery from hepatic damage caused by antitubercular drugs.

Another study by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences Noel Vietmeyer published in PubMed witnessed “The results indicate that this plant possesses antioxidant, hypolipidaemic and anti-atherosclerotic activities and has therapeutic potential for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.”

The University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan studied the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera based upon its detailed phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties and medicinal uses of various parts of this multipurpose treesuch as the leaves, roots, seed, bark, fruit, flowers and immature pods act as cardiac and circulatory stimulants, possess antitumor, antipyretic, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal activities, and are being employed for the treatment of different ailments in the indigenous system of medicine, particularly in South Asia.”

Few other studies also proved the antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic, antifungal and antibacterial effects of Moringa tree and its essential oil.

Other health benefits: Apart from these major health benefits, the different parts of Moringa tree and the essential oil extracted from the leaves and seed pods are used to strengthen the immune system with vitamin C, lessen the risk of health disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, atherosclerosis and cataract with the presence of vitamin B3, stimulates the process of digestion with the presence of fibre, supports blood circulation, functioning of the brain and treat anemia with its rich iron content and improve eyesight with vitamin A. Besides these, there are a handful of home remedies that are a part of the traditional healing system and grandmother’s remedy.

Disclaimer: Never take essential oils internally. Pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and always remember to use them in a diluted form. This article is only for the purpose of information and is not meant to diagnose or replace prescribed drugs or professional advice. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the right essential oil for your specific health condition and individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

We do not see nature with our eyes, but with our understandings and our hearts.   -William Hazlitt

Suggested Reading:

  1. Miracle Tree by Monica G. Marcu
  2. Bible Miracle Tree: healing with Moringa by Miracle Bible
  3. Moringa Oleifera: Magic, Myth or Miracle by Howard W. Fisher
  4. Moringa Oleifera benefits: enrich your life with the Miracle Tree for well-being, happiness, weight loss. More than a super-food, nutritional supplement, food supplement by Frank Moringa Oleifera

Reference Links:

  1. Moringa oleifera by Life in Health
  2. Śigru or drumstick (Moringa pterygosperma, Gaertn., M. oleifera, Lam.) by Dr. K.H. Krishnamurthy published in NAMAH
  3. Moringa, the Miracle Tree by Moringa Rubicon Health.Org
  4. The Benefits of Anti-Aging Moringa Oil on the Skin by Ayurveda Guru
  5. Medicinal properties of Moringa oleifera: An overview of promising healer by Fozia Farooq, Meenu Rai, Avinash Tiwari, Abdul Arif Khan, and Shaila Farooq