Seriously – this essential oil does almost everything…
You know what eucalyptus smells like. It’s already in your home, mixed into your chest rub or mouthwash. You may have even picked up a refreshing whiff of it at your favorite spa…
Long been used to help coughs, colds and sinus congestion, there are many other health benefits of eucalyptus oil that you may not know of. So just what else is eucalyptus oil used for?
The list is surprisingly long. Eucalyptus oil can relieve your allergies, ease headaches and pain, ward off mosquitos, combat stress, treat wounds and burns, disinfect your home, and even help with skin and hair conditions like acne, dandruff and lice. Plus many more…
This essential oil does pretty much everything. It’s easy to see why it’s one of those must-have multipurpose home remedies…
WHAT IS EUCALYPTUS OIL?
Its probably one of the best essential oils you’ll ever find. Extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, it originated in Australia where the Aborigines first used it as a remedy for a fever, as well as for wounds, infections, aches and colds. Because of this, eucalyptus is often referred to as the Australian fever tree.
Like most essential oils, eucalyptus oil contains many natural components, the most important being 1,8 cineole which gives the oil its distinctive scent and medicinal properties. A potent antimicrobial, eucalyptus is a true multipurpose oil that works against bacteria and viruses - which is why it’s so good for colds and other respiratory ailments - as well as fungi.
It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic which reduces any redness, swelling and pain while promoting wound healing. Plus, its powerful antioxidant properties help protect the body against free radicals that can lead to many diseases. And to top it all, it’s an effective bug repellent and a home disinfectant too.
As it’s so potent, eucalyptus essential oil must always be used with caution, so taking care to dilute it properly, avoiding swallowing and not using on young children, is the key to using it safely and effectively.
With so many astounding health benefits, it’s not hard to see why eucalyptus is such a popular essential oil. Whether you want to clear your sinuses, relieve sore muscles or joints, get rid of brain fog, treat a burn or bug bite – and more – here are 20 powerful therapeutic uses for eucalyptus essential oil…
EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR RESPIRATORY HEALTH
1. Relieves a cough, cold and sinus problems
There’s a good reason why eucalyptus is included in so many OTC remedies such as vapor rubs, cough drops and nasal inhalers. As a powerful anti-inflammatory and decongestant, it loosens phlegm and clears congestion to reduce sinus pressure and allow for easier breathing. Its cooling and soothing properties also help relieve uncontrollable coughing.
Eucalyptus oil has even been shown to help with bronchitis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Place 1 or 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a bowl of hot water. Throw a towel over your head and breathe deeply for 5 to 10 minutes. Otherwise add 3-5 drops to a warm bath and breathe in its healing vapers while you relax.
2. Controls allergies
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, can be an energy-sapping condition when the seasons change. Studies have shown that inhaling eucalyptus oil can quickly and meaningfully reduce the symptoms.
Diffuse 5 drops of eucalyptus oil or burn a eucalyptus candle to keep allergies at bay.
3. Helps reduce symptoms of flu and fever
As a natural antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pain-reliever, applying eucalyptus oil as a chest and body rub can help reduce many flu symptoms and bring down a fever.
Melt 2 tablespoons unscented shea butter in a double boiler, remove from heat and mix in 10-12 drops eucalyptus oil. Or use a eucalyptus massage oil as a chest rub.
4. Relieves a sore throat
In addition to being an anti-inflammatory, eucalyptus oil is also a natural bacteria fighter, both of which help reduce the symptoms of a sore throat.
Add I drop of eucalyptus essential oil to a cup of warm water and gargle. Do NOT swallow.
5. Boosts immune health
Eucalyptus oil has been found to stimulate an immune response that reduces the chance of you catching any cold and flu viruses as winter starts.
It works by increasing macrophages in the blood that improves your immunity and encourages faster recovery from infections. Macrophages are white blood cells that work by destroying foreign particles.
Regularly diffuse eucalyptus oil throughout your home before and during the cold season.
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EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR PAIN RELIEF
6. Eases sore muscles and joint pain
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of eucalyptus oil, it can do wonders relieving muscle stiffness, sprains and strains after strenuous exercise. It can also help reduce the chronic pain, swelling and inflammation caused by backache, arthritis and injuries to joints like knees or elbows.
Rub diluted eucalyptus essential oil onto the sore area in a circular motion. Otherwise, the moist heat of a eucalyptus spa blankie can help ease away aches and pains.
7. Alleviates headaches
Due to its ability to relieve pressure on the sinuses, eucalyptus oil is most effective in helping to clear up a sinus migraine. However, it has been found to also help relax both the facial muscles and the mind, which could help soothe a headache.
Massage diluted eucalyptus essential oil into the temples, or alternate a hot and cold eucalyptus spa mask compress on the bridge of the nose to relieve sinus pressure.
EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR MIND HEALTH
8. Combats stress and soothes the mind
The invigorating scent of eucalyptus oil stimulates the senses. This not only helps refresh and re-energize the body, but also has a calming, soothing effect on the mind. It can also be used to reduce stress and mood disorders.
Add 5 to 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to your morning shower. Scatter on the shower walls away from the water spray and breathe in the healing vapors.
9. Promotes mental clarity and clears brain fog
By invigorating the senses, eucalyptus oil helps improve focus and concentration, effectively clearing the mind. Its also been found to improve brain function.
Diffuse 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to refocus the mind, or regularly spritz eucalyptus essential oil spray into the air at work or home.
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EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR SKIN HEALTH
10. Helps sores and wounds to heal
As a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, eucalyptus oil is ideal for use on small cuts, wounds and burns to keep the germs at bay, reduce pain and promote healing.
Create an antiseptic wound wash by combining 2 cups of water and 10 drops of eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle. Spray onto a clean cloth and gently wipe down the affected areas twice daily.
11. Soothes insect bites and burns
Eucalyptus oil contains chemical compounds that create a tingling reaction on the skin that offers gentle soothing relief for bug bites and burns, helping to reduce redness and pain.
Apply 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus oil to a cotton ball and dab onto the affected area.
12. Relieves sunburn
Due to its ability to reduce redness, relieve pain and soothe burning skin, eucalyptus oil is also ideal for treating sunburn.
Mix together 2 to 4 drops of eucalyptus oil, one teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel, and 2 ounces of distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray all over skin for cooling, refreshing relief.
13. Helps get rid of acne
As a natural antimicrobial, eucalyptus oil has been found to effectively work against P. acne bacteria, and also helps to reduce oil production, two of the conditions that lead to acne. It can also help treat cold sores, cysts and boils.
Add 7 drops of eucalyptus oil to 3 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel. Mix well, dab onto pimples or apply as a moisturizer.
14. Fights fungal infections
Eucalyptus oil is packed with some powerful fungal fighting properties. Use it to treat athletes’ foot, thrush, ringworm and toenail infections.
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to coconut oil and blend into the affected area.
EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR A HEALTHY HOME
15. Keeps insects and rodents away
As a potent natural pest and insect repellent, the scent of eucalyptus oil can chase away moths, rodents, flies, bed bugs, roaches and mosquitos. It can even control mold and fungus spores.
Add 10-20 drops eucalyptus oil to 1 ounce of water and spray on and around targeted areas. You can also add a couple of drops to the washer when laundering your bedding.
Create a lasting bug-free eucalyptus oasis in your home by regularly using a natural eucalyptus reed diffuser, decorative candles and sachets in your closet. It will keep your house smelling fresh and clean too.
16. A natural anti-bacterial cleaner and deodorizer
With its pungent fresh scent, eucalyptus oil fights off bad odors from your smelly shoes and trash can to all corners of your home. Add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to a cotton ball to drop into your trash can, car or anywhere else where bad odors lurk.
It also keeps kitchen floors and surfaces germ-free. Add a teaspoon of eucalyptus oil to a bucket of hot water to mop floors. To clean surfaces, mix ½ cup white vinegar with 1 cup hot water, 12 drops liquid dish detergent and 6 drops eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle and shake before each use.
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EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR HAIR HEALTH
17. Fights dandruff and lice
If you suffer from dry scalp, eucalyptus may be able to help. As a potent anti-fungal, eucalyptus has also been shown to combat a yeast-like fungus that is the most common cause of dandruff. The active ingredient in eucalyptus oil, 1,8 cineole, has also been shown to be effective in killing head lice.
Simply mix 2 to 4 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, apply to scalp, wait 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For lice, increase the mix to ½ teaspoon of eucalyptus oil with 3 tablespoons of coconut oil and leave in for 30-40 minutes. Be sure to patch test beforehand.
18. Stimulates the scalp
The well-known anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus oil can be used to reduce any scalp irritation which in turn promotes healthier roots and hair growth.
Add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to your favorite conditioner. Otherwise mix 4 drops of eucalyptus oil with 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil, massage into scalp and leave for 20 minutes. Jojoba oil has been shown to promote faster hair growth.
EUCALYPTUS OIL BENEFITS FOR DENTAL HEALTH
19. Promotes healthy teeth and gums
The antibacterial properties of eucalyptus oil have long been exploited in toothpaste and mouthwash. It’s been found to inhibit the formation of plaque, so fighting the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Simply add 1 or 2 drops to water, gargle and spit it out. Do NOT swallow.
20. Keeps bad breath at bay
Thanks to the fact that it fights the germs that cause bad breath, eucalyptus also reduces bad mouth odor by gargling. It may also help bad breath by helping to remove excess tongue coating.
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If you weren’t convinced of how much eucalyptus oil could benefit you and your family’s health before, maybe it’s now time to add this handy little multi-tasker to your home remedy kit…
IMPORTANT NOTES:
If you have any medical condition, please consult with your health care professional before you use eucalyptus essential oil. There are certain people who should avoid it altogether, including babies, young children under 5 years old, pregnant women and the convalescing or elderly, unless under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Care must be taken when using with asthmatics, as they may not respond well to these oils.
Eucalyptus is a potent essential oil so must be diluted before using for aromatherapy or topically. Patch test some diluted oil on the inside of your upper arm for 24 hours before use. Eucalyptus oil should also never be ingested.
As eucalyptus essential oil is highly concentrated and potentially flammable, keep out of reach of children and steer away from flames and sparks when using for cleaning purposes. Do not use directly on animals and be aware that cats are particularly sensitive to eucalyptus oil.
Ensure that you always use top quality essential oils. There's a difference between an essential oil and simply an oil, which is basically a perfume. If a label does not clearly state that it is an 'essential oil,' then it is not a pure oil and should not be used as suggested.