Frequently Asked Questions
Mānuka Oil
Mānuka oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and branches of the Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand and Australia. It is known for its potential therapeutic properties and unique aroma.
Mānuka oil has a distinctive aroma that is often described as earthy, woody, and slightly sweet with herbaceous undertones. Some people also detect hints of honey in its scent.
Mānuka oil is believed to possess antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It's often used to support skin health, promote relaxation, and address various skin issues.
Mānuka oil can be used in various ways, including aromatherapy, topical application, and even in cleaning products. It can be added to diffusers, mixed with carrier oils for massages, or included in skincare formulations.
Yes, Mānuka oil's antimicrobial properties make it a popular choice for addressing acne-prone skin. It's believed to help fight bacteria that can contribute to acne breakouts.
No, Mānuka oil and Mānuka honey are different products. Mānuka oil is extracted from the leaves and branches of the Mānuka tree, while Mānuka honey is produced by bees that feed on the nectar of Mānuka tree flowers.
In most cases, it's not recommended to ingest essential oils, including Mānuka oil, without proper guidance from a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional.
While both Mānuka oil and Tea Tree oil have antimicrobial properties, they come from different plant species. Mānuka oil is derived from the Mānuka tree, whereas Tea Tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. Their aromas and chemical compositions also vary slightly. Did you know in studies that Mānuka Essential Oil is 20 to 30 times more effective against gram positive bacteria and 5- to-10 times more effective against fungi than Tea tree oil? In-vitro studies also show East Cape Mānuka oil is 12x more effective than Australian Tea Tree oil against P.acnes (bacteria causing acne).
Yes, some people use Mānuka oil in hair care routines. It can be added to shampoos, conditioners, or carrier oils for scalp health and to promote shiny, healthy-looking hair.
Mānuka oil has been classified as safe and tolerable for human use (CAS (US and EU) 223749-44-8; CTFA monograph ID 10572 and EINECS 425-630-7).
Mānuka oil is listed as a complementary medicine by TGA as balms, creams and oral applications, ARTG ID 331181, 331980, ID 337576 (Abraha et al., 2020, Matthew et al., 2020).
Tisserandet al., (2014) observe the following re. Mānuka oil: “No known hazards or contraindications. No information found on adverse skin reactions. No reasons to suspect any kind of toxicity. Mānuka oil was not significantly cytotoxic to cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Contains no carcinogens and displays some anti-carcinogenic activity”.
Human Repeat Insult Patch Test with 50 human participants confirmed that 2% Mānuka oil (in a jojoba carrier) is skin compatible and does not cause allergic or sensitivity reactions.
β-triketones that provide Mānuka oil with its antimicrobial properties. The higher the triketone level, the stronger the antimicrobial properties and benefits. Our Mānuka is harvested in New Zealand in a region where it has the highest level of β-triketones, more than 30 times higher than oil processed from other regions.
Yes, Mānuka plantations are sustainably harvested. Every 8 – 12 months the leaves are harvested and processed. Wild harvest is annually or biannually depending on the block location.
No, it is not tested on animals.
Our Mānuka is harvested in New Zealand in a region where it has the highest level of β-triketones, more than 30 times higher than oil processed from other regions.
Mānuka triketones are a class of naturally occurring organic compounds found in the natural world. Mānuka triketones have been shown to have very high antimicrobial properties in many peer-reviewed in-vitro scientific research. Mānuka oil contains β-triketones, natural compounds that kill or stop the growth of microorganisms.
These compounds can be broken down into anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agents.
NATRUE certified, 100% pure & natural ingredient derived from natural sources, COSMOS Certified, Kosher-Compliant, Halal-compliant, Gluten-Free, Palm-Free,Vegan, Non-GMO, Preservative-Free, Solvent-Free,BSE/TSE- Free, ingredient derived by pure steam distillation.
Mānuka oil is known for its moisturizing properties which can help hydrate & nourish the hair & scalp and can be useful for people with dry or damaged hair. Its antioxidant properties can help protect hair & scalp from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies suggest that Mānuka oil can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles and can help lead to thicker, healthier hair.
As in our hair care products, Mānuka oil is also an active ingredient in our body care range. Mānuka oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Its moisturizing properties can help nourish the skin, leaving it soft and supple.
Our Mānuka oil microcapsules lasts up to 50 washes or more. With each movement, there is a gentle release of Mānuka oil, enveloping you in a sense of well-being throughout your workout. Mānuka oil is known for its calming and moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, collagen-stimulating properties.
Micro-MK® Fabric & Microencapsulation
Microencapsulation is a process in which tiny particles or droplets of essential oils are surrounded by a protective coating, often made of polymers or other materials. This coating helps control the release of the essential oil and can enhance its stability and shelf life.
Microencapsulation is used to improve the stability, controlled release, and efficacy of essential oils. It can protect the oils from degradation due to factors like light, heat, and oxidation, and allow for targeted delivery to specific applications.
Microencapsulation can extend the shelf life of essential oils, provide controlled and sustained release, minimize volatility and evaporation, reduce skin irritation, and improve the stability of the oil's active compounds.
Microencapsulation can be achieved through various methods such as spray drying, coacervation, emulsion techniques, and solvent evaporation. The chosen method depends on the properties of the essential oil and the desired characteristics of the microcapsules.
Polymers, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates are commonly used materials for microencapsulation. These materials create a protective barrier around the essential oil, controlling its release and protecting it from external factors.
Katoa welcomes a new era of Wellness. Through this microencapsulation process, Mānuka oil is able to be infused into the garments within all the collections. Katoa’s Mānuka-Powered apparel allows for bacteriostatic, anti-inflammatory, calming and moisturizing benefits for the skin, and in addition helps improve blood circulation and collagen production, while acting as a natural deodorant.
Micro-MK® Fabric Technology is a fabric developed specifically by Katoa.
Via this proprietary Microencapsulation Process, Mānuka Oil is infused within the fabric of each of our garments
Mānuka Oil has a long list of benefits backed by numerous scientific studies:
• Anti-Inflammatory
• Anti-Aging
• Cleansing & Rejuvenating
• Soothing
• Antimicrobial
• Antibacterial
• Antiviral
up to 50 washes
Katoa cannot give medical or health advice. Please contact your health care professional. Please visit our dermatologically tested page for our dermatologically tested apparel and check with your primary health care physician. Our apparel is not considered a medical device.
Wash with Like Colors
Machine Wash Cold 30 Degrees- Extra Gentle
Machine Wash Inside Out
Do Not Bleach
Do Not Tumble Dry
Do Not Iron
Do Not Dry Clean
Do Not Use Fabric Softener
*Remember that individual responses to essential oils can vary, and it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or aromatherapist before using Mānuka oil for therapeutic purposes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant. If you're considering using products containing Manuka oil, it's a good idea to do a patch test first to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions, and consult with a dermatologist or hair care professional for personalized recommendations.