CAJEPUT, a volatile oil obtained by distillation from a species of Melaleuca, which has obtained the name of melaleuca cajeputi; cajeputi being its Malay name. This tree, or rather shrub, is a native of the island of Amboyna, and of the southern part of Borneo. Cajeput oil is prepared from the leaves which are collected in a hot dry day, macerated in water, and distilled after fermenting for a night. When distilled it is limpid; but being generally transported to Europe in copper flasks it acquires a greenish colour. When imported in glass bottles, it is perfectly pellucid. It is frequently adulterated. It should be free from colour, or of a bluish-green. This oil is extremely pungent to the taste, and has the odour of a mixture of turpentine and camphor. When dropped in water, it diffuses itself over the surface, and then entirely evaporates. It should burn without leaving any residuum. It is very soluble in alcohol, and sparingly so in water. Like other volatile oils, the cajeput is a powerful stimulant, and is used medicinally where such medicines are required. Some practitioners have given it a high character as a remedy for cholera; but it does not appear to have any claim as a specific in the treatment of that disease. The dose taken internally is about five drops. It is used externally as a rubefacient, and is also resorted to occasionally with advantage in toothache.