7 Surprising Uses for Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil may not be voted as one of the earthiest, pretties, sweetest, or fruitiest essential oils, but it sure is versatile and beneficial. Extracted from the leaves of eucalyptus trees, it is believed that eucalyptus oil was one of the first medicines used by Australian Aboriginal tribes. Today, it is considered a staple in any essential oils collection of any size. Below are a few of the many uses and benefits of eucalyptus essential oil.
What Is Eucalyptus Essential Oil?
Eucalyptus essential oil is derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, native to Australia. With its refreshing and invigorating aroma, this oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and aromatherapy. It is known for its numerous health benefits and therapeutic properties.
How Does Eucalyptus Essential Oil Work?
Eucalyptus essential oil contains compounds such as eucalyptol, which has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant properties. When inhaled or applied topically, it can help alleviate respiratory issues, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being.
Benefits of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
1. Respiratory Issues
If you have a cold, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, asthma, sinusitis, or bronchitis, eucalyptus will become your best friend. Mix it with carrier oil to rub on your chest. The vapors dilate blood vessels and calm the throat, thereby allowing the lungs to receive more oxygen. Inhaling eucalyptus oil can also help you soothe and relieve congestion. You can apply a few drops to your hands or hold over your nose to breathe in while in the shower to promote clear breathing.
2. Wound Healing
The antiseptic qualities of this essential oil make it ideal to apply to burns, sores, cuts, abrasions, and insect bites and stings. It soothes the area and also protects the wound against infection. You can miss a few drops of eucalyptus oil together with a pure aloe vera gel to soothe and repair the wound instantly. You can also opt to use a carrier oil such as coconut oil to apply to the affected area.
3. Muscle Pain
Keep a blend of eucalyptus essential oil and your favorite carrier oil mixed in a container to apply to aching muscles. Make sure you use diluted eucalyptus oil when applying to your body to avoid skin irritations and allergies. It is also ideal for sore joints, sprained ligaments, arthritis, and nerve pain.
4. Dental Care
This oil's germicidal and antibacterial properties make it ideal to add to your toothpaste or use as a mouthwash.
5. Insect Repellent
Not only will eucalyptus help keep the mosquitoes away while you are outside, it can be sprayed throughout the home as a natural bug repellent. Do you know what insect hates eucalyptus the most? Spiders! Spray it around your doors and on window screens, too. You can dab it on the outside of your dog's collar to help keep fleas and mosquitoes away, too.
6. Air Freshener
Add it to your diffuser for a fresh and clean fragrance. While it makes your home smell great, it will also be kipping bacteria and viruses, too.
7. Circulation
If you suffer from poor circulation, massage the oil topically to the area. This makes eucalyptus oil perfect for diabetics since many people with this condition have poor circulation, which can be extremely dangerous.
Eucalyptus oil has an array of health benefits due to its powerful properties. Applying eucalyptus oil or even just inhaling it can help you get rid of mental exhaustion and fever. It is also a versatile oil as it can be used as a floor cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and a natural sunscreen.
How To Use Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- Inhalation: Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle to experience its respiratory benefits and mental clarity.
- Topical Application: Dilute eucalyptus essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and apply it to the chest, back, or affected areas for muscle and joint support.
- Steam Inhalation: Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam to relieve congestion and sinus issues.
Precautions and Side Effects
While eucalyptus essential oil is generally safe for most people, it is important to use it in moderation and follow these precautions:
- Do not ingest eucalyptus essential oil.
- Perform a patch test before applying it to the skin to check for any allergic reactions.
- Avoid using eucalyptus essential oil on children under the age of 6.
- Consult a healthcare professional before using eucalyptus essential oil during pregnancy or if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Final Thoughts
Eucalyptus essential oil is a versatile and natural remedy that offers a wide range of health benefits. From respiratory support to mental clarity and stress relief, this oil can enhance your overall well-being. Incorporate eucalyptus essential oil into your daily routine and experience the power of nature's healing properties.