Product Spotlight: Niaouli

Every year, we face the lovely virus of the cold and flu season. You may think, “Oh joy! I get to be miserable with coughing, sneezing, bodily aches, and, of course, the sweats from a breaking fever.” This may not be so likely to be joyful! Instead, we are grabbing for anything to give us some relief…and unfortunately, the downside of this would be you may not know what you are putting on and in your body. Niaouli Essential Oil is the perfect contender for respiratory concerns! That is why it shines so much in the Ultimate Flu Fighter Kit.

What is Niaouli?

Niaouli is a star even in the illustrious group of evergreen trees native to Australia that have made their mark on modern life through their powerfully antiseptic essential oils.* There are hundreds of types of Eucalyptus and Tea Tree, which you will find growing next to Niaouli deep in the forests of the botanical treasure known as Australia.

“Melaleuca Viridiflora” is a small, humble tree with spongy, papery bark, pointed leaves, and delicate cream-colored, pale-yellow, green or red flowers. Niaouli essential oil is distilled from the leaves of this shrub-like tree. It is from the same family as Cajuput and Tea Tree. This species thrives in water-rich environments such as moist wetlands, lowland areas, swamps, and along riverbanks, although it can also tolerate drier upland soils. It germinates so well and is such a hardy species that it can easily take over an area once it sets down roots – hence its reputation for being invasive in many regions. After the oil has been extracted, leftover plant material may be used in biofuel applications.

It is believed that centuries ago, babies were wrapped in Niaouli bark to confer strength and protection in communities where the trees grow wild. Today, Niaouli has received a much warmer reception, becoming known for its many benefits in aromatherapy, natural body care, and household cleaners.

What are the Therapeutic Benefits of using Niaouli?

Historically, Niaouli has been valued for its cleansing properties, which is why it was primarily used as an antiseptic and an immunity booster.* It was used in many ways: as a headache-relieving syrup, in vaginal suppositories, as a mouth rinse, and in treatments to expel intestinal parasites.*

Niaouli Oil benefits for aromatherapy and natural cosmetics stem from its purifying properties and stimulating aroma. Niaouli contains the infection-fighting properties of both Tea Tree and Eucalyptus. Chemically, it is more similar to Eucalyptus but much milder, since its 1.8 cineol content is significantly lower. It can be used freely on the skin (diluted of course) as a muscle rub, an insect repellent, and to help reduce the appearance of scars.*

When diffused during meditation, Niaouli Oil is said to elevate the spirit and awaken the senses.* It can also be diffused in a steam inhalation to help clear airways and promote deep breathing.* For a soothing aromatherapy blend, try diffusing Niaouli with Bergamot or Lemon. If you are looking for a cool, cleansing blend to refresh the senses, try diffusing Niaouli with Peppermint and Eucalyptus.

How would you use Niaouli?

Niaouli really enhances your therapeutic benefits when it is diffused or inhaled. However, Niaouli can also be used in overall topical applications, whole body massages, and in aromatic baths. Let’s take a look into when and how to use Niaouli.

• Diffusion / Inhalation Application: add a few drops to a Nebulizer or Nasal Inhaler
  • Diffusion and inhalation applications of Niaouli Essential Oil open up the airways, helping to ease coughs, sore throats, bronchitis symptoms and sinus pressure.* By breaking down mucous buildup in both chronic respiratory conditions as well as everyday congestion, it contributes to improving overall breathing ease and capacity.*

• Overall Topical Application: 1-2% Dilution
  • When Niaouli is used topically, it offers multiple benefits across a variety of body systems. From its clearing effect on the respiratory system to reducing symptoms of bronchitis and sinusitis, it can also provide relief for muscular inflammation in the musculoskeletal system.  It protects against insect bites via its deterrent effects on integumentary (skin and hair) surfaces.* Additionally, users may see reduced appearance of scarring or blemishes. This is because regular application supports healthy circulation, which finally relaxes any muscular aches one might experience!* Dilution for this application should be 1-2% in any carrier oil (5-10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil).

• Whole Body Massage Application: 1-2% Dilution
  • A whole body massage with Niaouli can be a powerful remedy for respiratory, musculoskeletal and other related ailments. By providing relief to congestion in the lungs, it clears airways of mucus promoting healthier breathing patterns.* Its antiviral/bacterial qualities help keep infection at bay while relaxing muscles from aches or tension due to inflammation or overuse.* Furthermore, its circulation boosting properties contribute towards restoring balance within muscular tissue surefire way of improving overall wellness!* Dilution for this application can be up to 1-2% in any carrier oil (5-10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil).

• Aromatic Bath Application: up to 1% Dilution
  • Relax in the soothing aroma of an Aromatic Bath! You can dilute Niaouli in your favorite bath salts or milk to provide comprehensive respiratory and musculoskeletal system support.* Clear out mucus, ease coughs and sore throats, and reduce bronchitis symptoms; all while relieving inflammation, discouraging infection, and improving circulation.* Niaouli helps you rest easy from any muscular aches or pains.* Dilution for this application can be up to 1% in bath salts, bath milk, or another product similar before adding this to a full bath. The total application must not be more than 8 drops per bath; otherwise, it could cause serious injury.*

What would blend well with Niaouli?

Niaouli is a highly aromatic, versatile oil that can add an extra layer of complexity to any essential oil blend. It pairs especially well with Bergamot and Coriander for reducing stress; Cypress and Eucalyptus aid in detoxification when blended with Niaouli; Lemon, Sweet Orange, Peppermint, and Ravintsara balance emotionality whilst Rosemary helps promote optimal concentration.*

Here are a few DIY recipes for you to try in your nebulizer:

Whichever way you choose to use Niaouli, it will benefit you on multiple levels.* You can reduce stress, aid in detoxification of your respiratory system, or soothe your achy muscles while promoting healthier circulation.* Hopefully, now you can see why we love this essential oil so much.

Happy Blending!

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.