Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia. Over the years, eucalyptus leaves and oils have been consumed and made into medication for various health conditions for individuals around the world. During the 18th and 19th centuries, eucalyptus was used as an antiseptic and for wound healing. The eucalyptus leaves can be used to make tea or oil because of their natural organic compounds. Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol, which is the main component that provides many health benefits. Here are 10 health benefits to adding Eucalyptus to your routine:
- Antimicrobial and antifungal properties: Eucalyptus as an essential oil has many highly effective antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been proven that the extract from this leaf has been used as a remedy for symptoms of the cold and flu. The flavonoids and biophenols from the eucalyptus extract aids in prevention of attachment from some viruses in the body. In addition, it was found that the essential oil may help block virus replication in infected cells within 5 to 10 minutes of contact. As for the anti-inflammatory compounds, a study found that it also acts as a painkiller by reducing swelling and increasing blood flow.
- Boosts immune system: Eucalyptus oil contains many antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds and recently has been found to also stimulate the immune system. This may help reduce the chances of catching cold and flu viruses as the climate changes. The study states that the essential oil increases white blood cells, specifically the macrophages, in the blood- helping improve your immunity. These macrophages work by engulfing or destroying foreign particles. Increase your chances of not getting sick by diffusing eucalyptus essential oil throughout your home before and during winter time.
- Treat dry skin: Using topical eucalyptus leaf extract has been found to boost skin’s ceramide production. Ceramides are a type of fatty acid in the skin that help maintain a barrier from bacteria and retain the moisture in the skin. The use of diluted eucalyptus oil on the skin as a moisturizer aids in skin barrier protection and water-holding capacity because of the oils compound called macrocarpal A. Try using a few drops of the oil in shampoo for dry scalp or a few drops in lotion to help with dry skin.
- Eases sore muscles: Another effect of the anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus oil is easing sore muscles and joint pain. In a study, it was proven that eucalyptus oil effectively works through inhalation to relieve pain and reduce blood pressure after surgery. Try diluting eucalyptus oil in a diffuser at home or work for 15 to 20 minutes to relieve body aches. You may also try applying and massaging the diluted oil onto the sore area to ease the pain.
- Alleviates headaches: Since eucalyptus carries anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce the swelling and pressure in the body. This leads to reduced pain, as shown in this study– eucalyptus relieves headaches, sore throat, muscle pain, fever and aching in the body. In another study, it was found that the combination of peppermint and eucalyptus oil helps relax the facial muscles which aids in soothing headaches. Massaging diluted eucalyptus oil into the temples is proven to help with these symptoms.
- Promotes focus and clarity: The study also shows that the combination of peppermint and eucalyptus oil increases cognitive performance while having a relaxing mental effect. Try diluting five drops of eucalyptus oil in a diffuser, spray the oil in the air around the home or work, or try lighting a eucalyptus candle to refocus your mind and calm your body.
- Helps Reduce pain: Since inhaling eucalyptus oil is known in helping reduce muscles soreness and inflammation, we can conclude that the oil can aid in reducing other types of pain as well. Some of these pain alleviating compounds are cineole and limonene, which act as pain relievers when inhaled or applied onto the sore area.
- Reduce anxiety and stress: Eucalyptus is widely believed to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. That is why Bath and Body Works sell many candles, lotions, and body products that are labeled as eucalyptus fragrance for stress relief. In a study, 62 healthy people experienced significant reductions in anxiety before surgery after inhaling eucalyptus oil. The compound in eucalyptus extract that helps with anxiety and stress is called eucalyptol.
- Promotes healthy teeth and gums: Due to the antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus oil, they have also been used to promote healthy teeth and gums. The essential oil has been used in toothpaste and mouthwash to inhibit the formation of plaque. In addition, this routine was proven in a study that significantly resulted in eucalyptus oil helping fight mouth bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. In the study, the participants chewed on gum that contained eucalyptus extract, so we recommend trying to add 1 or 2 drops of oil to your toothpaste or diluting the oil in water as a mouthwash and spitting it out. Do not swallow the oil or the toothpaste.
- Helps with acne: Since eucalyptus contains natural antimicrobial properties, it has been known to effectively fight acne causing bacteria. In addition, the essential oil helps reduce oil production… leading to less acne. Try adding seven drops of eucalyptus oil to 3 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel and apply as a moisturizer to decrease the risk of acne causing bacteria.
