Cajeput Oil: What It Does and Why People Use It

Ever used an oil that smells like camphor and suddenly your sinuses open? That’s cajeput oil. It comes from the leaves of Melaleuca cajeputi and has a bright, camphor-eucalyptus scent. People reach for it for respiratory relief, muscle aches, and as a mild antiseptic. The main active compound is 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), the same stuff that helps clear airways in other plant oils.

How people use cajeput oil

There are a few common, practical ways to use it. For quick breathing relief, add 2–3 drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam for a few minutes—keep your eyes closed and take gentle breaths. For diffusers, 3–5 drops in a small room is enough. Topically, many people mix cajeput with a carrier oil for a chest rub or sore-muscle massage. It’s also used in small amounts in homemade balms and salves as a refreshing, warming ingredient.

Here are three simple recipes you can try:

• Steam inhalation: 2–3 drops in hot water, inhale 2–3 minutes.
• Chest rub: 15 ml (1 tablespoon) carrier oil + 6–12 drops cajeput = mild 1–2% dilution.
• Diffuse for scent/air comfort: 3–5 drops in an electric diffuser for 30–60 minutes.

Safety, dilution and precautions

Cajeput is potent. Never use it undiluted on skin. A safe rule: 1% dilution for sensitive skin, 2–3% for general adult use. That means 6–18 drops per 30 ml (1 fl oz) of carrier oil—simple math you can use when mixing. Do a patch test: apply a pea-sized amount of the diluted mix to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours. If you get redness or burning, stop.

Avoid giving cajeput oil to infants and children without professional advice. People with asthma or sensitive airways can react badly to strong essential oils—if you have severe asthma, check with your doctor first. Don’t ingest cajeput oil. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to a healthcare provider before use. Keep the bottle out of reach of kids and pets.

Buying tip: choose a pure oil labeled Melaleuca cajeputi (or Melaleuca leucadendra depending on supplier), check batch and country of origin, and avoid oils mixed with unknown additives. Store in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and sunlight.

Want to try cajeput but unsure where to start? Begin with a low dilution and short exposure—five minutes of steam or a brief diffuser session. If it helps, you’ve found a handy, natural tool for congestion and minor muscle discomfort. If not, there are alternatives like eucalyptus and tea tree that might suit you better.