The health benefits of eucalyptus are wide ranging. Eucalyptus oil is considered an essential oil. Its properties include antibacterial, antiviral, decongestant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and other medicinal qualities. Not much was known about Eucalyptus till a while back, but now it’s been used in aromatherapy as well. Due to the medicinal qualities of eucalyptus oil, it is used in a variety of drugs.
Never ending benefits of Eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus oil has antiseptic qualities and is thus used in treating respiratory problems including cold, cough, asthma, nasal congestion, bronchitis etc. Gargling eucalyptus oil mixed with warm water is very effective in relieving sore throats. Also, for asthmatic patients, a simple massage of 1-3 drops of the oil on the chest along with its soothing aroma and vapors calms the nerves and dilates the blood vessels and normal breathing is restored.
Eucalyptus plays a big part in treating stress and mental disorders. Eucalyptus oil is a stimulant and removes exhaustion and revives the spirits due to its calming effects. The oil helps in relieving muscle and joints pain due to its anti-inflammatory qualities. Therefore, it is highly recommended to people suffering from lumbago, sprained ligaments, muscle aches etc. The oil also plays an important part in dental care. It helps in fighting against cavities and plaque due to its inherent germicidal properties. This is the reason for eucalyptus oil to be present in most mouthwashes and toothpastes.
Eucalyptus oil is a bug repellant and a pesticide. Using a few drops of eucalyptus oil onto the lice-infected head might just solve the problem. It is also highly used for skin care. Eucalyptus oil also helps in controlling blood sugar when ingested. Due to its qualities of a vasodilator, it helps in improved blood flow throughout the body. Diabetic patients have a poor blood flow circulation; this is where eucalyptus oil helps them the patients out.
Eucalyptus oil is often called “fever oil” and for good reason. The oil helps in reducing the high body temperature. Eucalyptus oil when massaged on chest and back gives the best results as its vapors clears the lungs and calms the nerves. It also helps in relieving the conditions of tuberculosis. The oil’s antiseptic and deodorant qualities make it a good element for soaps, sanitizers and room fresheners.
How to use eucalyptus oil and precautions:
Thus, the eucalyptus oil can be ingested, applied on skin, using it as an antiseptic or used in aromatherapy. It can be used in vapor therapy or blended in massage oil or in a lotion for pain relief or added to a gargle for sore throat. Its main properties are those of anti-bacterial, pain relief, dental hygiene and stimulating immune system.
Eucalyptus oil is safe to use but certain precautions should be used. Adults should not ingest it orally except if advised by a doctor. Also, eucalyptus oil is generally safe to apply to adult skin but not on a child under 2 years of age. It should also be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.