Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the safest oils available on the market today. It can be mixed with many other solutions, applied topically if diluted with a carrier oil, inhaled and added in small amounts to foods and beverages. There are some precautions that should be taken but for the most part the oil is safe for human use. Here is a brief overview of how to safely incorporate Eucalyptus essential oil and benefit from its healing properties.
Can you consume Eucalyptus oil?
Yes, Eucalyptus essential oil is safe to consume but only in small amounts. It can be directly added to food or drinks, like teas and desserts. Only a few drops should be added and it should never be consumed in large amounts. It is possible to overdose from essential oils, including Eucalyptus. It is safe to use in toothpastes and mouthwashes because the solution should not be swallowed. It is recommended to rinse with water after using either of these products.
Can you inhale Eucalyptus oil?
Yes, Eucalyptus essential oil is safe to inhale. Several studies have been conducted to discover the oils effects on different diseases when directly inhaled with promising results. For example, the oil can help break up chest congestion from the common cold and flu. It may even be able to help stop the beginning of asthma symptoms. To inhale Eucalyptus essential oil as a means to medicate, simply place a few drops on a cloth or towel and breathe the aroma in deeply through the nose. The oil can also be directly added to a warm bath where the aroma will fill the room or put into an essential oil diffuser. The oil can also be added to a pot of water on the stove and heated until steam is produced. A towel can then be placed over your head while you lean over the pot and inhale the steam. Inhale the steam through normal breaths for five minutes and take off the towel. Wait a few minutes and if you have not experienced any lessening of symptoms, repeat the process.
Can you put Eucalyptus oil on your skin?
Yes, Eucalyptus essential oil can be placed directly onto the skin but should always be diluted. To make a cream with Eucalyptus oil, add up to four drops of oil for every tablespoon of carrier oil. For example, a cream that is made up of four tablespoons of coconut oil would require up to sixteen drops of oil for it to be effective. Creams may be placed on the face but contact should be avoided with the eyes and nostrils.
Before applying creams to the entire body, do a test patch. On the inside of your arm, place a small amount of the cream and wait for twenty four hours. If there are no signs of irritation or redness, use the cream as desired. If there are signs of irritation you should either avoid the oil or try a recipe with fewer drops of oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.
Eucalyptus oil can also be used in homemade cleaners and is therefore safe to be used on counter tops and sinks. It can also be safely added to detergents and soaps. It should still be treated like normal household cleaners and kept out of reach of children and pets.
Can Eucalyptus oil be used on children or infants?
While some essential oils can be used freely on children and infants, Eucalyptus oil should be used with extreme caution. The oil is high in 1,8-ceneole. This chemical component can cause central nervous system problems along with breathing problems. For this reason, it should never be inhaled or applied to or near the faces of young children. The recommended age for use in children is ten years old and above.
Some essential oils alter hormone levels in children, especially boys. This is another reason why the oils should be avoided until the appropriate age.
Should pregnant women use Eucalyptus oil?
While deemed to be one of the safest essential oil available, there has not been enough research conducted to prove that there are no side effects to the mother or fetus when used by a woman who is pregnant. If applied to the skin or consumed, the oil and its components can be transferred to breast milk and should therefore be avoided if breastfeeding. Speak with your health care provider before using any type of essential oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Should Eucalyptus oil be diluted?
Yes, Eucalyptus oil should always be diluted. This is especially true when it comes to homemade shampoos and conditioners. If a recipe calls for a range in drops of oil, start with the least amount and work your way up until you know that the scalp will not become irritated.
If you do display any signs of an allergic reaction to Eucalyptus essential oil, such as a rash redness or irritation, discontinue using the oil immediately and do not attempt to use again until you have consulted with a medical professional.
Precautions to take with Eucalyptus oil
As with any type of medicine, there are certain precautions and situations to look out for when using Eucalyptus essential oil. Some people have experienced nausea, vomiting, migraines and fevers while using Eucalyptus oil as a medicine. Direct application of the oil can result in irritation to the skin but should not be severe. It is very important never to drink Eucalyptus oil alone and when added to food or drinks, it should be added in very small amounts. Always be sure to avoid contact between Eucalyptus oil and the eyes and nostrils. If contact does occur, rinse the area thoroughly.
Studies have shown that Eucalyptus oil can decrease blood sugar levels. Unless directed otherwise, all use of Eucalyptus oil should stop two weeks prior to any surgical procedure and should not resume until cleared by a medical professional. People with diabetes should also avoid the oil unless they obtain approval from their doctor.