Origin and description of the Niaouli plant

Niaouli, also known as Melaleuca quinquenervia, is a tree native to Australia, more specifically the region of New South Wales and Queensland. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family and can reach heights of 8 to 25 metres.

Its leaves are narrow, lanceolate and dark green, while its flowers are small white or pinkish clusters. The fruits of Niaouli are capsules containing small black seeds.

The benefits of Niaouli

The aboriginal peoples already used Niaouli for its medicinal virtues. Today, this plant is mainly recognised for its antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.

Here are some of the benefits of Niaouli:

• Antiseptic : Niaouli has antiseptic properties, making it an effective natural remedy for skin infections such as acne, eczema and wounds.
• Antiviral : Thanks to its antiviral properties, Niaouli can be used to treat viral infections such as colds, flu and herpes.
• Anti-inflammatory : Niaouli leaves and essential oil have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve muscle and joint pain, as well as skin inflammation.
• Expectorant : In cases of bronchitis, cough or respiratory infection, Niaouli can be used as an expectorant to help eliminate bronchial secretions.
• Immune stimulant : Niaouli boosts the immune system, which can help prevent infection and improve recovery from illness.
• Healing : Niaouli essential oil can be used to promote wound healing thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Use as a food supplement

In addition to its medicinal uses, Niaouli can also be consumed as a food supplement. In the form of an essential oil or extract, it can be used internally to enjoy its benefits more generally.

Here are some of the possible uses of Niaouli as a dietary supplement:

• Steam : Inhaled or diffused into the air, Niaouli essential oil can help clear the respiratory tract, relieve nasal congestion and soothe sore throats.
• Massage : Mixed with a vegetable oil, Niaouli essential oil can be used to massage painful or inflamed areas, to relieve muscle and joint pain.
• Oral route : Niaouli leaf extract can be taken as a dietary supplement to boost the immune system, prevent infection and promote healing.

Precautions for use

It is important to note that Niaouli essential oil should not be used by pregnant or breast-feeding women, or by children under the age of 6. It is also contraindicated for people suffering from epilepsy or convulsions.

It is also advisable to dilute the essential oil in a vegetable oil before using it for massage, and to follow the recommended dosage.

If in doubt, it is best to seek the advice of a health professional before taking Niaouli as a dietary supplement.

Sources in French :

– Study on the antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of Niaouli

– Study on the use of Niaouli extracts as a dietary supplement

– Study on the benefits of Niaouli essential oil in cases of bronchitis