Herb of the Week: Niaouli

This tree is also called "Swamp Paperback" or "Paperbark Tree" or "Broad-leaved Paperback" but its scientific name is Melaleuca quinquenervia. It was used traditionally in the Kanak culture of New Caledonia for the antiseptic properties of its leaves. Not only did they use the leaves for infections, etc., they used them for body aches and wrapped newborns in them for protection. Today, the essential oil is commonly used and that mainly comes from Madagascar. If you've never heard of this one, get comfy and let's talk about what medicinal properties this oil carries.

As I already said, it's an antiseptic but it's also an anti-inflammatory, an antimicrobial (that's why the Kanak culture used it for body aches) and a decongestant. The essential oil of this tree is teeming with 1,8-cineole and viridiflorol which are powerful compounds that help clear mucus, fight bacteria, and support immune function, and promote healing of skin issues.

To aid in colds and flus, use as an additive to an oil diffuser or in steam therapy. It's a great alternative to eucalyptus when you need to open airways for someone who is congested (some people have an aversion to eucalyptus or an allergy). It helps expectorate mucus while also supporting the immune system. Make sure it is diluted enough in distilled water before using.

Use this oil topically, not just to help heal wounds or burns, but as an anti-inflammatory (diluted, of course) oil directly on aching body parts to help relieve pain associated with inflammation. But, here's the disclaimer, please do not use this internally without the supervision of a doctor or someone who is very well educated on the uses of essential oils internally. And, it goes without saying but I'm going to say it: don't use this topically in sensitive areas... you will not be happy if you do.

As for its witchy uses, it shares a lot of correspondences with its cousin, Tea Tree (M. alternifolia). Use this in cleansing and purification rituals, in rituals to help break habits, rituals to protect or increase healing energy, to help strengthen resilience, and to assist in dispelling negative thinking.