Koala bears are found hugging the Eucalyptus tree and gorging on its leaves in Australia for all good reasons. They are perhaps on to something!
Did you know Eucalyptus oil is used in Brazilian folk medicine for treating lungs related conditions like cold, flu, and bronchial infection. An Australian native plant, the tree is now grown in various parts of South Africa, Asia, and Europe for its umpteen potencies like being an effective pain reliever, muscle relaxant, antispasmodic, decongestant, antimicrobial, fragrant and anti-inflammatory. Here we share some of the research backed benefits of this Australian green.
1. Decongestant
It works on reducing build-up of phlegm in the lungs. Research suggests, it inhibits bacterial growth of strains of S. pneumonia, H. influenza, and parainfluenza. It promotes the secretion of sputum which helps decongest and breathe without wheezing. This is the reason Eucalyptus finds its rightful place as one of the key ingredients in cold medicines.
You can add it to the diffuser and take in the vapor if you are struggling to sleep with a congested chest.
2. Stress Buster
Eucalyptus oil is a popular stimulant that removes mental stress and has a rejuvenating quality to it. Inhaling vapor of the eucalyptus oil improves circulation of blood to the brain organ.
3. Aromatherapy
Eucalyptus oil is also used in making exotic bathing oils or oils especially used in aromatherapy for its scent, antiseptic, grounding and calming quality.
Shankara’s unique collection of Ayurveda inspired aromatherapy oils that balance the mind and emotions, calm the senses and invigorate it in equal measure throughout daily activities, also uses the eucalyptus essential oil which is also known for its great blending quality.
Shankara’s Aromatherapy collection brings together the following formulations:
- Calming Essence: Grounding and Centering (Vata Pacifying): Cardamom EO, Sandalwood EO, Vetiver EO
- Soothing Essence: Cooling and Soothing (Pitta Pacifying): Sandalwood EO, Lavender EO, Geranium EO
- Energizing Essence: Stimulating and Invigorating (Kapha Pacifying): Lemon EO, Bergamot EO, Cypress EO, Grapefruit EO and Eucalyptus EO
4. Fights The Lice Problem
Known for its anti-repellant and pesticide property, Eucalyptus oil lends itself as a potent medicine against hair lice. A 2017 study found it to be effective and safe in removing head lice.
5. Great For Your Hair
Few people know that eucalyptus oil is also useful for effective haircare because of its anti-fungal property. It removes the build-up of scalp fungi that lead to itchiness, weak scalp and hair fall.
6. Good For Asthmatic Patients
The presence of cineole in Eucalyptus oil reduces asthmatic symptoms.
7. Good For Your Brain
The essential oil increases mental alertness. It improves the flow of blood to the brain, making it function better. There is evidence that schools have started using eucalyptus oil based aromas in classes to improve students’ alertness and performance.
According to a research carried out by Neurological Clinic, University of Kiel, Germany, the combination of peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil and ethanol increased cognitive performance and had a muscle-relaxing and mentally relaxing effect.
8. Muscle Relaxant
Eucalyptus oil is a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory oil occurring in nature. The study carried out by a Brazilian University in 2003 stated that eucalyptus oil ‘possess central and peripheral analgesic effects as well as neutrophil-dependent and independent anti-inflammatory activities. These initial observations provide support for the reported use of the eucalyptus plant in Brazilian folk medicine.’
(Also Read: Five Natural Relaxants For Muscle Pain)
9. Effective For Reducing Joint Pain
A study suggests that use of eucalyptus vapor reduced pain and inflammation in patients of knee replacement surgery. It is also administered along with a carrier oil for muscle stiffness, fibromyalgia, nervous inflammation, ligament sprains and rheumatism.
(Also Read: Four Natural Non-invasive Treatments For Arthritic Pain)
10. A Blessing For Your Teeth
Its anti-microbial gifts make it effective in working against cavities and plaque and bad breath (because of its aromatic value). It is often found in mouthwashes and tooth pastes.
11 Effective Against Sinusitis
Eucalyptus oil is also a positive in treating sinus and nasal congestion. It works on the receptors of mucous membranes to reduce the congestion. Medical experts suggest, eucalyptus oil must be administered by trained professionals alone or strictly under the recommended dosage.
