Eucalyptus essential oil has been used for centuries by all different cultures to heal or treat many different medical conditions. It can still be used today in several different ways to improve a person’s overall health and has scientific research to back up some of these claims. The oil can be consumed in small amounts if approved by a medical professional or placed onto the skin if mixed with a carrier oil. It can also be inhaled. Listed below are the most common ways that Eucalyptus essential oil can be used as a natural medicine.
Asthma
Asthma is a condition that produces attacks where air is unable to be fully exhaled due to swollen bronchial passages. Breathing becomes labored and difficult. Attacks can be random and are often allergic reactions to food, stress or airborne allergens. Eucalyptus oil can be an effective treatment for asthma patients when applied to the chest in the form of a cream. It can also be inhaled through steam or an inhaler. The oil will help to expand constricted airways, leading to easier breathing. It is very important to note that the oil should not be used during an attack and should also be monitored by a medical professional. While the oil helps most people suffering from asthma, it can cause attacks in others.
Cold and Flu
The common cold and flu often bring chest congestion. Eucalyptus is an expectorant and helps to drain mucus from the lungs, sinuses and throat. The oil can be applied to the chest as a cream or inhaled through steam. Add the oil to a diffuser and keep it close while you sleep and symptoms can be relieved overnight. Because the oil is also antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory it will also help to eliminate the infection as well. It can also be used to treat more serious illnesses such as emphysema and bronchitis to help clear air passages.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body is unable to correctly regulate blood sugar. Treatment is expensive and often interferes with quality of life. Studies have been conducted that focused on Eucalyptus oil and its affects on diabetes. The oil was able to reduce the level of hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. While the oil is still being researched, it shows promise to being a natural alternative to diabetes treatment. Treatment is simple and consists of massaging one or two drops into the soles of the feet everyday. If you suffer from diabetes, do not administer Eucalyptus oil as treatment until discussed with your medical practitioner.
Fever
Eucalyptus oil has the ability to cool the skin. If suffering from a fever, mix the oil with a bit of peppermint oil and water. Spray the skin with the solution. Or add a bit of the oil to a rag soaked in cool water and apply to the forehead. By helping to reduce a fever, the body can rest more and fight off the infection.
Muscle Pain
Sore muscles and joints can make simple tasks near impossible. Mix Eucalyptus oil with an equal portion of carrier oil and massage it in a circular motion on sore areas of the body. The oil is able to relieve associated pain and can bring down any associated swelling. Try this cream for stiff muscles, aches, sprained tendons or any other type of muscle damage.
Mouth Health
Eucalyptus oil is a common ingredient in homemade toothpaste and mouthwash. It is effective against cavities, dental plaque and can even help reverse gingivitis. The oil has been proven by scientific research to protect against microbial growth, common in the mouth because of the dark and moist environment.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a disorder of the urinary tract. They are structures that form in the kidneys and have to be passed through the urinary tract. It can be an excruciating experience. Eucalyptus oil is a vasodilator, which means that it can help to widen blood vessels. Blood then circulates more effectively which helps the body to pass the stone. There have been cases of individuals with kidney stones who were able to eliminate the kidney stone naturally and without any pain with the use of essential oils, especially Eucalyptus. To treat kidney stones, mix Eucalyptus with a carrier oil and massage on the skin over the affected kidney. Cover the area with a hot compress. Repeat this process twice a day until the kidney stone has passed. The oil can also be applied to pressure points, like the wrists and behind the ears.
Heals Wounds
One of the first mainstream uses of Eucalyptus oil was to clean surgical equipment. It has incredible antiseptic qualities and is a great natural option to treat abrasions. Try it on wounds, ulcers, burns, cuts or sores by mixing it with an equal amount of carrier oil and gently applying to the area several times a day until the wound has healed. It can also be used to treat insect bites and stings. By destroying bacteria, infection can be avoided and healing time is often quicker.
Mental Exhaustion
Eucalyptus oil’s aroma is surprisingly refreshing. If one is feeling a bit sluggish, the oil can act as a stimulant. It stimulates mental activity and increases blood flow to the brain. With more blood reaching to areas in the brain, concentration and mood improve. Keep some Eucalyptus oil nearby for long days of work or school or whenever you need a quick burst of energy.
Eucalyptus oil is often a great treatment for jet lag. It can help to waken up the body and make it easier to get on a different daily schedule.
Eucalyptus oil can be easily found in health stores or purchased online. Be sure to confirm the quality of the essential oil before purchasing it. Some companies use less potent solutions that will weaken the oil’s strength when it comes to healing. Always speak to a health professional before medicating with Eucalyptus essential oil and discontinue use if there are any negative side effects.
