Eucalyptus is a native Australian fast-growing evergreen tree that is used popularly as an essential oil in aromatherapies, hair care, etc. But benefits of eucalyptus leaves are not limited to the above uses only. There are some antiseptic benefits of eucalyptus as well. If you want to know these benefits, keep scrolling!
The Eucalyptus plant belongs to the myrtle family, which has smooth & fibrous gum-infused bark, long stems, and circular leaves with oil glands. Although it is native to Australia, eucalyptus is used in many states & territories of the world as an essential oil.
There are more than 400 species of eucalyptus, but Blue Gum or scientifically called Eucalyptus Globulus is the most common plant used to extract the colorless, strong, and woody scent oil eucalyptol.
The following are some medicinal benefits that you can accrue from eucalyptus:
- Help to keep teeth healthy
Eucalyptol present in the leaves can help to improve dental health by reducing plaque formation in teeth & decreasing gum problems like bleeding, inflammation, etc. Polyphenols like ethanol and macrocarpal C present in eucalyptus have antimicrobial properties that are effective to fight cavity and gum diseases.
- May relieve pain
There are multiple anti-inflammatory compounds present in eucalyptus that might help to relieve pain. Although there is no full-proof evidence for it, many tests have shown that inhaling eucalyptus oil along with almond oil for 30 minutes can reduce the pain level perceived during knee replacement surgery.
- Ease out respiratory problems
Eucalyptus is various home and herbal remedies to cure a common cold and cough. You can add fresh leaves in the gargling water to ease a sore throat, sinusitis. Or you can also inhale eucalyptus rubs to relieve stuffy nose (nasal congestion).
- Antimicrobial & anti-fungal properties
As per modern researches, eucalyptus has been found to have antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties that are effective to fight pathogenic bacteria, and treat fungal infections, skin wounds, etc.
- May treat dry skin
The main reason for dry skin is the decreasing ceramide content in the skin. Ceramide is a fatty acid that retains moisture in the skin to prevent it from getting rough. Eucalyptus extract can boost ceramide production in the skin, and that as a result, can reduce scaliness, itchiness, and redness.
How to use Eucalyptus?
These days there are various over-the-counter products available in the market that are infused with eucalyptus oil that is beneficial for health and household uses. It includes:
Leaves
Eucalyptus leaves are used both in fresh and dried forms. You can add fresh leaves to tea, put them in the bath for a relaxing experience. You can also use them as air fresheners.
Oil
Eucalyptus oil is used in cold, cough medicines, in dental care products, in antiseptics to treat fevers, in aromatherapies, etc.
Spray
You can buy eucalyptus-infused spray to keep bugs, ringworms, and topical parasites away.
Ointment
Eucalyptus is also infused in ointments and rubs to treat minor pains and to provide cold treatment.
Side Effects of Eucalyptus
Although essential oils purchased from reputable brands & sources are safe and effective, it is better to take precautions before using eucalyptus.
Some of the side effects of eucalyptus are:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Suffocation
- Dizziness, etc.
Another thing to consider before using eucalyptus oil is to keep it away from children, and the eye region, as it causes burning sensation or irritation. Also, you should consider avoiding it during pregnancy.
The Takeaway
Eucalyptus might be an Australian specialty, but it is now being used in various parts of the world. Apart from being a soothing essential oil, there are multiple medicinal benefits that you can accrue from eucalyptus. Hence, add it to your daily life but with precautions.
