Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most versatile essential oils available today and has been used for centuries as an easily accessible and affordable medical aid. It can be added to food and drink and is a great household cleaner. Some of the most common uses of Eucalyptus oil include the following.
As A Cleaner
Eucalyptus oil may be used to clean surfaces, clothing and dishes without the addition of dangerous chemicals that are found in store bought cleaners. While it may seem that it is added to body care products and household cleaners only because of its pleasing scent, it also packs some pretty powerful disinfecting powers as well. It can be used to make all purpose cleaners and also to prevent the growth of mold. It can also be added directly to premade laundry detergent or used in homemade recipes to kick up the disinfecting power.
A less known cleaning power of Eucalyptus oil is its ability to remove stains. It is highly effective at removing new and set-in stains in carpets, furniture and clothing. It can be used directly on shoes and other surfaces to instantly remove gum. Always test a surface before applying the oil but reactions are rare. The oil can also be used to remove stubborn odors from items that can’t be washed in the washing machine. Take the item and wash it topically with a rag that has been soaked in eucalyptus oil and water. Allow the item to air dry outside and the smell should disappear.
As An Antioxidant
As the cells in the body process oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals. While they are necessary to help fight infections and bacteria in the body, they need to be regulated. If too many free radicals are left in the body, they can cause serious damage and are linked to heart disease, cancer and diabetes. They can also cause the body to prematurely age. The body needs antioxidants to rid itself of free radicals. Eucalyptus essential oil is rich in antioxidants and can help to strengthen the immune system when consumed in tea or inhaled. Remember that the oil should never be consumed alone.
As A Medical Healer
Eucalyptus essential oil has been used for centuries as a natural healer for countless medical conditions. It works as an expectorant and helps the body fight and remove toxins and dangerous microorganisms that can make someone feel ill. One of the oil’s uses includes adding several drops to a diffuser before going to sleep. The healing benefits will be inhaled all night and can help fight the common cold. For more severe cold symptoms, the oil can be added to a pot of boiling water. Once the heat has been turned off, a towel can be placed over the head while the individual leans over the water and inhales deeply for five to ten minutes. The steam will be rich with the oil and breathing should come easier instantly.
Eucalyptus oil has been proven to help with asthma. It may also help with bronchitis, COPD, pneumonia and even tuberculosis. For asthma, mix the oil with peppermint oil and coconut oil. Rub the cream on the upper chest. Eucalyptus dilates the blood vessels in the area, which will allow more oxygen to get into the lungs. It should not be used during an attack, only as a preventative measure.
For cuts and wounds, Eucalyptus oil can help to prevent infection and speed up healing. It should not be put on the affected area directly but rather mixed with a carrier oil. It can then be applied to the damaged skin. The cream should help to relieve pain while destroying bacteria that can cause an infection.
As A Natural Cosmetic
Eucalyptus oil is often used in hair and skin products. When mixed with a carrier oil, it can be applied safely to the scalp to help stop hair loss and even reverse it by stimulating the follicles. The oils should be combined and massaged into problem areas. It may also be applied to the entire scalp to help get rid of dandruff and can even be effective in preventing and eliminating lice. When applied to the entire head and brushed through the hair it will improve the quality of each strand, leaving hair healthier and shinier.
Eucalyptus oil can also be added to lotions to help with certain skin conditions. For example, the antiviral and anti-inflammatory agents of the oil make it a great treatment for shingles, a rash caused by a virus. It will help to ease the pain associated with the rash while preventing infection. It can also be used to cool the entire body down after an intense workout or during a dangerously hot day. Mix a few drops of the oil with a few drops of peppermint oil and place in a spray bottle with water. Spray the solution all over the body and your internal core temperature should drop instantly.
As A Cooking Agent
Eucalyptus oil is a flavoring additive that is usually added to desserts. It is more commonly used in hot teas. The tea can be gargled to help soothe and cure a sore throat. The drink is also thought to increase the production of insulin in the body and may lower blood sugar. This is a beneficial treatment for people suffering from diabetes. However, if treatment is already being administered for diabetes the consumption of Eucalyptus tea needs to be approved by a medical professional.
As An Aromatherapy Staple
Eucalyptus oil is a common oil in aromatherapy, which is the use of the oil in a therapeutic manner. The aroma of Eucalyptus can increase brain wave activity and battle mental fatigue. Try smelling the oil for a sudden burst of energy during long car trips or to help focus at work or while studying.
Thanks to all of Eucalyptus’s uses, it is a great item to keep readily available at all times. Always buy high quality essential oils. In the case of Eucalyptus oil, Australia produces the best quality product.
