What Are the Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil?
Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most well-known and used oils in the world. We use it for nasal congestion like the Vicks and when we’re in pain. That’s why Eucalyptus essential oil should be part of your first aid kit.
What is Eucalyptus?
The first thing that comes to mind is that it’s the Koalas’ favorite food. Second, the smell of Vick’s Vaporub.
Eucalyptus is one of the most popular oil in aromatherapy.
The oil is obtained from the leaves of a specific variety of eucalyptus. The scientific name for this variety is Eucalyptus Globulus. It is a tree native to Australia.
In Puerto Rico, Malagueta is mistakenly called Eucalyptus. With the leaves of the Malagueta we prepare Alcoholado. It is very rare to see this species of Eucalyptus (Globulus) on our island.
Learn more about the differences of Eucalyptus and Malagueta in our blog.
The Eucalyptus tree usually grows to a height of 140 feet. The bark is usually smooth, white to cream. Just like Malagueta, you can easily identify it by it’s characteristic Vick’s odor when you crush the leaves in your hand.
What Properties Does Eucalyptus Oil Have?
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Nasal Decongestant
It helps to open the airways and relieve nasal congestion allowing people to breathe better. It can help to expel mucus and thereby helps relieve coughing.
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Pain Relief
It’s best known benefit, pain relief. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is why it is used to relieve muscle spasms and aches, joint pains and relieve tiredness
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Powerful Antiseptic
Tremendous antibacterial properties. Fight germs and bacteria. Ideal for preventing skin infections and relieving insect bites.
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Purifying
Air cleaner. You can use it to improve concentration and meditation.
How Do I Use Eucalyptus Oil?
Inhalation
- Use the essential oil in your oil diffuser.
- Apply 1 or 2 drops to a to a handkerchief or tissue.
- Add a few drops to a pot of boiling water and breathe deeply. You can also add it to the tub for a relaxing bath.
- Dilute with Sweet Almond oil and apply under the nose to help with nasal congestion.
- Shower with a soap containing Eucalyptus essential oil.
We recommend the following products:
Pure Essential Oil Eucalyptus and Rosemary Handcrafted Soap
Eucalyptus Handmade Soap with Mint Eucalyptus Bath Gel
Massage
For tired or numb muscles, a massage with eucalyptus essential oil is very effective. Or, if you’re congested, massage your chest.
Add 8-10 drops of Eucalyptus essential oil to a base oil such as Olive, Coconut or Sweet Almond.
We recommend the following products:
Eucalyptus Massage Oil Nasal Congestion Lotion
Environment
- Add a couple of drops of essential oil to your oil diffuser.
- Even when cleaning, you can put a few drops of oil in the vacuum filter or clothes dryer to refresh and disinfect.
- Dilute a few drops of oil in a little water and alcohol and spray in the environment
We recommend the following products:
Anyway, it’s an oil with lots of uses. For this reason, you should not miss your first aid kit.
Caution:
The first thing to know is NOT to apply pure essential oil directly to the skin as it is super concentrated. Always dilute it first with a base oil like Olive, Coconut, Almond.
- It is NOT recommended to apply direct oil to undiluted skin.
- It is NOT recommended to ingest the oil.
It is important to remember that these statements do not replace medical treatments and that Eucalyptus oil and any other essential oil mixture can serve as an excellent complementary therapy, if used responsibly, but do not cure any disease. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatment.
Study on the power of this Oil how to antibacterial: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609378/
Study on the power of eucalyptus essential oil as a nasal decongestant: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6613544.