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Cajeput oil is a pale yellow essential oil obtained from the distilled leaves and twigs of the Melaleuca cajuputi, Melaleuca leucadendra, or related species of the Myrtaceae family.
It has a fresh, camphoraceous aroma similar to eucalyptus and is widely used in aromatherapy, traditional medicine, and as a fragrance or flavoring agent.
Its key active component is 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which contributes to its decongestant and antiseptic properties.
CAS Number: 8008-98-8
Synonyms:,Cajuput oil,Cajeputi aetheroleum,Oleum cajuputi,Cajeput essential oil
Melaleuca leucadendron oil,Cajeput tree oil,Eucalyptol oil
Introduction
Cajeput oil is an essential oil obtained primarily from the leaves and twigs of the Melaleuca cajuputi and Melaleuca leucadendra species, belonging to the Myrtaceae family.
Traditionally used in Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and northern Australia, cajeput oil has long been valued for its aromatic, medicinal, and therapeutic properties.
The name “cajeput” originates from the Malay word “kajupat,” meaning the tree from which the oil is extracted.
This essential oil has a characteristic fresh, camphor-like, eucalyptus aroma mainly due to its high 1,8-cineole content.
It has applications in respiratory therapy, antimicrobial treatments, analgesia, and aromatherapy.
Its continued use in modern pharmaceuticals and cosmetics underscores its importance as a natural product.
Botanical Source and Extraction
Botanical Characteristics
Melaleuca cajuputi Powell: This tree grows up to 20 meters tall, native to tropical wetlands of Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
It features thin, papery bark and narrow, lanceolate leaves rich in essential oils.
Melaleuca leucadendra (L.) L.: Also known as the Weeping Paperbark, this species can grow taller (up to 30 meters) and is characterized by white, peeling bark.
Its leaves are highly aromatic with significant cineole content.
Both species thrive in humid, swampy areas with ample sunlight.
They belong to the Myrtaceae family, closely related to eucalyptus, clove, and tea tree.
Cultivation and Harvesting
Optimal oil yield depends on climate, soil, and harvest timing. Leaves are typically harvested during the rainy season when terpene production peaks.
Careful selection of fresh, mature leaves ensures higher quality oil.
Extraction Methods
The primary extraction method is steam distillation:
Fresh leaves and twigs are subjected to steam in a distillation apparatus.
Volatile oil components vaporize with the steam.
Upon condensation, the essential oil separates from the water and is collected.
The oil is then dried using anhydrous agents (e.g., sodium sulfate) and filtered.
Oil yields typically range between 1% and 3% (weight/weight) depending on the species and conditions.
Chemical Composition
Cajeput oil is a complex mixture dominated by monoterpenes and oxygenated monoterpenes.
The composition can vary geographically and with species.
Major Components
1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol): 40–60%
This bicyclic ether is responsible for the characteristic camphoraceous aroma and therapeutic activities like mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
α-Terpineol: 5–15%
A monoterpene alcohol with a lilac-like scent and mild antimicrobial properties.
Limonene: 3–10%
A monocyclic monoterpene hydrocarbon contributing citrus notes and antioxidant effects.
Minor Terpenes: Terpinolene, p-cymene, β-pinene, and others occur in smaller amounts, each adding complexity to the oil’s aroma and biological profile.
Chemical Structures and Properties
1,8-Cineole: C₁₀H₁₈O, a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor, boiling point around 176°C.
α-Terpineol: C₁₀H₁₈O, a clear liquid with a pleasant odor, boiling point near 217°C.
Limonene: C₁₀H₁₆, a hydrocarbon with a boiling point around 176°C.
Variability
Oil composition varies based on:
Species and chemotype.
Harvesting time (seasonal effects).
Geographic origin (climate and soil).
Distillation parameters.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance and Odor
Cajeput oil is a pale yellow to greenish-yellow mobile liquid. It has a fresh, penetrating camphoraceous odor reminiscent of eucalyptus but slightly sweeter and more floral due to α-terpineol and other components.
Physical Constants
Property Typical Value Measurement Method
Density (20 °C) 0.915 – 0.930 g/mL Pycnometer
Refractive Index (20 °C) 1.460 – 1.470 Refractometer
Optical Rotation -4° to +4° Polarimeter
Boiling Point 176 – 180 °C (cineole) Distillation
Solubility Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol and organic solvents -
Stability
Cajeput oil is prone to oxidation when exposed to air, light, or heat, which can cause changes in odor and therapeutic efficacy.
Proper storage in dark glass bottles, under inert atmosphere or refrigeration, extends shelf life.
Pharmacological and Therapeutic Uses
Antimicrobial Activity
Cajeput oil exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against various bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli), fungi (Candida albicans), and some viruses.
Its mechanism involves disruption of microbial cell membranes, leakage of cellular components, and inhibition of key enzymes.
Respiratory Benefits
Due to its high 1,8-cineole content, cajeput oil acts as an effective expectorant and decongestant.
It enhances mucociliary clearance by thinning mucus and facilitating its removal from the respiratory tract.
It also reduces airway inflammation, offering symptomatic relief in bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma.
Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Topical applications of cajeput oil reduce muscle and joint pain, likely due to inhibition of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and cytokines.
The cooling, warming sensations also contribute to analgesia.
Antispasmodic and Nervous System Effects
Cajeput oil can relax smooth muscle spasms and relieve cramps. In aromatherapy, it is used to reduce mental fatigue, uplift mood, and enhance concentration.
Applications
Traditional Medicine
In traditional Southeast Asian medicine, cajeput oil is applied to treat colds, fever, insect bites, rheumatism, and wounds.
It is often combined with other herbal remedies to enhance efficacy.
Pharmaceutical Products
Cajeput oil is a key ingredient in medicated oils, rubs, inhalants, lozenges, and topical ointments.
Its expectorant and antiseptic properties make it useful in cough syrups and cold remedies.
Cosmetics and Fragrances
Used in soaps, shampoos, lotions, and perfumes for its refreshing scent and antiseptic qualities, cajeput oil is appreciated in the cosmetic industry for natural formulations.
Food Industry
Although limited, cajeput oil may be used as a flavoring agent in food products, typically at very low concentrations, due to its intense aroma and flavor.
Insect Repellent
Its volatile nature and distinctive odor make cajeput oil effective as a natural mosquito and insect repellent in sprays and lotions.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT CAJEPUT OIL
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician.
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Rinse mouth with water.
Consult a physician.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment.
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles.
Faceshield (8-inch minimum).
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product.
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices.
Wash and dry hands.
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls.
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator.
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions.
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company.
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product
