Manuka 1:2 (OptimalRx)

Leptospermum scoparium Manuka is a versatile, astringent, and antimicrobial herb traditionally derived from the leaves and young branchlets of the New Zealand tea tree. It is primarily indicated for local and systemic microbial overgrowth, gastrointestinal mucosal inflammation, and hypersecretory states. Rich in volatile oils, tannins, and specialised antimicrobial β-triketones (such as grandiflorine and leptospermone), Manuka exerts robust antibacterial, antifungal, and spasmolytic activity while simultaneously toning relaxed or inflamed mucous membranes. It is particularly valuable in gastrointestinal protocols targeting dysbiosis, bacterial overgrowth, and diarrhea, as well as an oral or upper respiratory wash for catarrhal and infective conditions. While both share the same botanical origin, liquid Manuka herb extract should not be confused with Manuka honey. The leaf extract provides a drying, tannin-driven, and sugar-free antimicrobial effect ideal for GI dysbiosis, hypersecretory gut states, and internal protocols, whereas Manuka honey acts primarily as a moistening, sugar-rich humectant best suited for topical wound healing, tissue regeneration, and soothing demulcent applications. Traditional Use Traditionally utilized in Rongoā Māori (indigenous New Zealand herbal medicine) as a decoction or infusion of the leaves and bark for fevers, gastrointestinal disorders (including dysentery and diarrhea), urinary complaints, and as a topical wash or gargle for wounds, burns, and mouth infections. In modern Western Herbal Medicine, the liquid extract of the leaf is valued as an internal antimicrobial, gastrointestinal astringent, and mucosal restorative. Actions Antimicrobial, antibacterial (Gram-positive and Gram-negative), antifungal, astringent, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, carminative, mild anxiolytic/sedative. Indications Gastrointestinal infections, bacterial dysbiosis, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) Acute or chronic diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and hypersecretory gut conditions Upper respiratory tract infections, catarrh, sinusitis, and pharyngitis (as a systemic dose or gargle/spray) Fungal overgrowth, including systemic or localized Candida species Periodontal disease, gingivitis, stomatitis, and oral ulceration (topical rinse) Mild anxiety, stress-induced digestive spasms, and nervous dyspepsia Energetics Cooling, drying, astringent, slightly bitter and aromatic Use in Pregnancy Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential uterine spasmolytic/modulating activity and insufficient safety data regarding internal concentrated leaf extracts. Contraindications & Cautions Use cautiously in individuals with severe dry or constipated states due to its marked tannin-driven drying and astringent nature. Avoid long-term uninterrupted high-dose internal use without practitioner oversight. Contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to plants in the Myrtaceae family. Drug Interactions Oral Medications: High tannin content may bind to and decrease the absorption of concurrent oral pharmaceutical drugs, iron supplements, and alkaloids. Separate administration from medications by at least 2 hours. Dietary Information Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free. Substitutes Myrrh, Thyme, Horopito, Bearberry.