Before diving into the world of eucalyptus essential oil, let’s us take a trip into the wild and look at the trees that give us the essential oil. Eucalyptus globulus is a tall and evergreen tree that is native to Tasmania and south eastern Australia. It is botanically known as the Tasmanian bluegum.
Although it is native to the Austrian region, it is also found in other parts of the world. Nowadays, it is cultivated in many parts of the world. Just being in the vicinity of a eucalyptus tree will fill the nostrils with its sweet herby aroma. No wonder its essential oil is so popular in aromatherapy.
Eucalyptus is a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world, and its essential oil is used for several purposes and in a variety of industries. Let’s look at some of the traits of Eucalyptus globulus.
Physical Characteristics – Eucalyptus globulus is a large tree and can grow up to 100 meters tall, especially those in its native (and other conducive) regions. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown; its leaves are dark green. The tree has white or yellow flowers that bloom in the winter or early spring. The fruit is urn-shaped capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Uses – Here we are talking about the uses of the eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptus globulus has a wide range of uses, practical, cosmetic and medicinal. The wood is of course used for construction of furniture, and pulp production. Its essential oil is used in aromatherapy, and also in perfumes, and cleaning products. The tree and its parts are also used in traditional medicine, especially for battling respiratory problems, fevers, and colds. Here are some of the key uses of Eucalyptus globulus:
Benefits – Eucalyptus globulus has a number of health benefits, because of its ingredients and essential oil content. Some of the benefits of the oil are for respiratory health, pain relieving properties, skin health and mental wellbeing.
Now, let’s get into the world of essential oils and learn more about the benefits and uses of eucalyptus essential oil.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil Uses and Benefits
The oil from the eucalyptus tree is extracted through the process of steam distillation. This organic oil has numerous benefits and uses.
Eucalyptus Oil for Controlling Cough
Eucalyptus essential oil is primarily known for its expectorant properties and how effective it is in fighting colds and coughs. In fact, you will see a lot of these uses and benefits listed here. The oil is also used as an ingredient in many cold and cough medicines. It is used in a popular chest rub that is useful in lowering chest congestions.
A study published in the medical journal Pulmonary Pharmacology on 1994 looked into the antitussive property of menthol and other compounds. Menthol is an ingredient present in eucalyptus oil. The research concluded that the aromatic vapors reduced the cough frequency, proving that eucalyptus may be sued for treating cough (1).
Oil for Clearing Mucus and Phlegm
Incessant coughing or breathing troubles due to clogged nose can be quite distressing. The oil from the eucalyptus plant can take care of clogged nasal tract. The oil can loosen the mucus and eliminate it from the body. The inhalation of the aromatic molecules of eucalyptus loosens the phlegm.
Pain Reduction Oil
Eucalyptus oil is also applied on the pain points of the body. The oil has analgesic properties and a soothing effect when applied topically. One of its ingredient eucalyptol, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Even inhaling the aroma of the oil has a positive impact on the pain.
Patients recovering from total knee replacement surgery reported that inhaling the aroma of eucalyptus oil helped them cope better with pain. Doctors suggest inhaling the aroma of essential oils via aroma diffuser for pain management. However, do not expect essential oils to cure or treat pain magically; they are a great supplementary treatment.
A randomized clinical trial published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a peer-reviewed open-access medical journal investigated the pain, swelling, and inflammation reducing properties of eucalyptus oil. It was found that inhaling the aroma of eucalyptus essential oil lowered pain and blood pressure levels (2).
Essential Oil For Oral Care
When you think of dental issues, what are the few issues that pop into your mind? Bad breath and bacterial cavities are the obvious answers. Using eucalyptus oil will aid other dental care agents in reducing or preventing dental issues. It is an excellent tool to have in your oral care and hygiene repertoire. The oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can ward of problems due to bacteria and gum inflammation. And a few drops of the oil are enough to maintain oral hygiene.
Oil for Scalp and Hair Health
Eucalyptus oil can clear off dandruff and other scalp issues and maintain hair and scalp health. The oil also has antifungal properties that prevent any fungal infections. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the scalp and take care of itching and rashes. Combining this oil with tea tree essential oil is an ideal practice as the blend of these tow essential oils is very beneficial for the scalp and hair. The blend can be mixed with hair oils or shampoos.
Essential Oil for Cold Sores
Cold sores area such an ailment that people will try anything to get rid of it. Using essential oil for cold sore like eucalyptus oil can help soothe the discomfort and promote healing. There have been a few researches on eucalyptus oil and its ingredients on herpes simplex virus. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil and its ingredients might be useful in bring the ailment under control. When using the oil for cold sores, make sure to dilute it sufficiently.
The peer-reviewed medical journal Pharmaceutical Biology on 2011 published a study that investigated the antimicrobial activity of different eucalyptus oils on drug resistant bacteria. It was found that the compounds Aromadendrene, citronellol and 1,8-cineole were responsible for the antimicrobial properties of the oil (3).
Quality Mosquito Repellent
There are chemical sprays that can keep mosquitoes away and then there is the organic eucalyptus oil that is very effective in keeping mosquitoes away. In a day and age where more and more people are shying away from chemical products, eucalyptus oil is a boon for those bothered with the flying blood suckers. Mixing the oil with lemon essential oil is more potent in driving away mosquitoes.
Eucalyptus oil for Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels
Let’s state this outright – the research is still limited on this property and there is minimal evidence to suggest that eucalyptus oil may have potential as a complementary treatment for diabetes. However, some experts believe that it may aid in lowering the blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Again, the mechanisms behind this are not yet fully understood.
Those who do use eucalyptus as a complementary diabetes remedy along with diabetes medication must follow careful blood sugar monitoring procedures to ensure that their levels remain stable. As more research is conducted, we may gain a better understanding of the potential benefits and risks of using eucalyptus oil as part of a diabetes treatment.
Oil for Seasonal Allergies
Eucalyptol and citronellal are some of the compounds in the oil and these compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. Certain other compounds in the oil also have anti-histamine properties. These properties of the oil are useful when it comes to dealing with seasonal allergies.
Some researches have also concluded that eucalyptus oil has immunomodulatory properties. This quality of the oil alters the immune response of the body whenever it comes in contact with allergens.
Headache Tackling Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a good oil for the respiratory system. It opens the sinus and makes smooth breathing possible. The same properties of the essential oil are useful in tackling headaches and tension headaches. The oil has a rejuvenating effect on the senses and relaxes the muscles and mood.
The blend of eucalyptus and peppermint essential oil is very popular in lowering headaches and respiratory issues. Research has shown that the oil can inhibit the formation of mucus in the airways, which can cause tension headaches by increasing the sinus pressure.
Eucalyptus Oil for Earaches
Eucalyptus oil has expectorant and antibacterial properties. It can prevent the fluid build up in the ear due to any types of infections. And its cooling effect is soothing on the ears. Sometimes ear infections can be caused by flu or colds. Eucalyptus oil comes in handy during these times. Using such essential oil for ear infection is a popular natural remedy that many people find effective in relieving pain and promoting healing.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil Uses
Now let’s look at some of the uses of eucalyptus essential oil. The oil can be used topically or it can be used via an inhalation device.
Dealing with Sinus Congestion
Dealing with respiratory issues is the primary purpose of eucalyptus oil. It is the purpose of its existence. The oil can be diluted with carrier oil and applied on the throat and nose to deal with clogged respiratory tract. A few drops of the oil can be added to the hot water and the steam can be inhaled to deal with inflammation in the nasal tract. The oil can be diffused in a room with an aroma diffuser and its aroma can be inhaled continuously.
Eucalyptus Oil Uses for Headaches
To deal with headaches, the essential oil form eucalyptus plant can be diluted with carrier oils including coconut oil or grapeseed oil and massaged in the forehead and temples. The oil can be diffused in a room with an aroma diffuser and its aroma can be inhaled continuously to gradually reduce headache.
Eucalyptus Oil for Blood Pressure
There is some research-based evidence to suggest that eucalyptus oil may have a positive effect on blood pressure levels. A study published in the Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science found that inhaling the aroma of eucalyptus oil reduced blood pressure and heart rate in female patients with hypertension also some research papers available that proves effectiveness of essential oils for high blood pressure. Inhale the aroma with some meditation and it woks to lower elevated blood pressure.
Eucalyptus Oil for Oral Care
Eucalyptus oil is sometimes used as an ingredient in toothpaste (and some dentalcare products) due to its benefits for oral health. The oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce inflammation in the gums. Toothpastes containing eucalyptus oil may be effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis. A few drops of the oil can be added to your toothpaste to get its effects.
A study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that a toothpaste containing eucalyptus oil was effective at reducing plaque and inflammation in the gums.
Disinfectant Oil for House Cleaning
Eucalyptus oil can be used as a house cleaning agent due to its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. The oil can be added to a spray bottle filled with water to create a simple and effective cleaning / spraying solution for surfaces such as table tops, sinks, and floors.
In addition to its cleaning abilities, eucalyptus oil has a fresh and invigorating scent that can help to freshen up a space. The oil can be added to a washing machine or used in a spray bottle to freshen up linens and fabrics.
DIY Recipes with Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Super Blend for Colds and Coughs
Ingredients
- 6 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 6 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 4 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 3 drops of Ravensara Essential Oil
- Steamer
Instructions
Take a cup of boiling water in a steamer. Add all the listed ingredients into the steamer and close the lid. Gently twirl the steamer for the oils to mix. Now inhale the steam deeply.
Pain Relief Massage Blend
Ingredients
- 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 6 drops of frankincense essential oil
- 6 drops of bergamot essential oil
- 3-5 tablespoons of coconut oil
Instructions
Add all the ingredients in a bowl and use your fingers to mix them well. Take the oil on the palm and massage the desired part of the body.
Precautions and Side Effects while Using Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is generally considered safe for most people, when it is used as instructed. However, it may cause certain adverse reactions or side effects if used incorrectly. Here are the side effects and precautions to be aware of –
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to topical application of eucalyptus oil. It’s recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using it.
- Skin irritation: Direct contact with undiluted eucalyptus oil may cause skin irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin. Always dilute eucalyptus oil properly before applying it topically.
- Respiratory issues: In some cases, inhaling the aroma of eucalyptus oil may result in respiratory issues or worsen conditions such as asthma. Individuals with respiratory conditions should use eucalyptus oil with caution or avoid it altogether. Consult a doctor before using the oils.
- Interaction with some medications: Eucalyptus oil may interact with certain medications. Those taking any medications must consult with a healthcare professional before using eucalyptus oil.
- Toxicity: Ingesting eucalyptus oil can be toxic and should be strictly avoided. It’s important to keep eucalyptus oil out of reach of children and pets.
Eucalyptus essential oil is safe for use as long as the instruction are followed and a professional is consulted. However, if the side effects last for a longer period of time, then consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use eucalyptus oil at home?
There are several ways of using Eucalyptus essential oil at home.
1. Inhalation – Use it for aromatherapy via a diffuser; or use it as an air freshener.
2. Topical – Dilute the oil and apply it on the skin and scalp. It can be used as a massage oil.
3. Disinfectant – It can be used as a natural cleaner
Can I apply eucalyptus oil directly on skin?
Eucalyptus oil must always be diluted before applying it topically on the skin. Applying the oil directly on the skin may cause side effects including itching, inflammation and scars.
Can I put eucalyptus oil on my pillow?
Adding eucalyptus oil on the pillow and bedsheets is a common practice followed by many people. However, do not add too much of the oil on the pillow.
Is it safe to inhale eucalyptus oil?
Eucalyptus oil has compounds that may be helpful in lowering certain respiratory ailments including colds and coughs. Eucalyptus oil is added to an aroma diffuser or hot water, and its aroma is inhaled to get relief. Eucalyptus oil is a safe oil for inhalation.
Can I put eucalyptus oil in my hair?
Eucalyptus oil can be applied on the hair after diluting it with carrier oils including coconut oil or your regular hair oil. The essential oil nourishes the scalp and promotes hair health.
Source:
- The Antitussive Effects of Menthol, Camphor and Cineole in Conscious Guinea-pigs https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0952060084710210
- Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/502727/
- Antibacterial activity of essential oils from Eucalyptus and of selected components against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2011.553625