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When most people think of eucalyptus trees they think about koala bears munching on the stalk and leaves. But this native Australian tree — that is now grown all over the world – has medicinal properties. The healing properties, according to Healthline, comes from an essential oil made from the tree’s leaves.
The healing properties of eucalyptus leaves have been known for centuries by Indigenous Australians according to Mind Body Green (MGB) and it was adopted by the English when the colonies were established in the late 1700s. It was used for wound care but the essential oil is good for so much more.
Here are seven beneficial uses for essential eucalyptus oil (EEO):
Helps with Congestion and Coughs
Eucalyptus oil has been known to help fight congestion and coughing. In fact, it is used as an active ingredient in over-the-counter cough medicine and in Vick’s VapoRub according to Healthline. The long-lasting vapors from eucalyptus and menthol that enter your mouth and nose helps to dry up congestion and let you breathe easier. You can even put it in a vaporizer to make you breathe easier when you have a cold.
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Used for Wound Care
Indigenous Australians used the leaves to treat wounds and to help prevent infections. It is still being used today. In fact, a 2018 study that evaluated the healing properties of the essential oil showed that nanoemulsions of EEO was comparable to gentamycin an antibiotic which is commonly used to treat minor skin infections and burns. It can also be used to help fight fungal infections.
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Can Ease Joint Pain
Eucalyptus oil is also commonly being used to treat joint pain for people who are recovering from a joint or muscle injury, arthritis, or after a vigorous workout according to MBG. In fact, many over-the-counter herbal creams like Aptiva, Dynamite Muscle Cream, and P3 Cream contain EEO. A 2010 study showed that EEO has anti-inflammatory benefits that could aid in the reduction of pain.
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Freshens Breath
While most people equate mint with fresh breath, eucalyptus can also be used in toothpaste and mouthwash to give you fresh breath and much more. In fact, it is an active ingredient in many organic products from companies including: Jason Simply Organic, Kazidomi, Toms, Oral-B, and is even an ingredient in Colgate’s herbal. That’s because the antibacterial properties can kill bacteria and can help prevent plaque buildup on teeth and gums according to Healthline.
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Can Help Control Dandruff
The antifungal properties of eucalyptus can help combat Malassezia, the fungus that is the most common cause of dandruff according to Women’s Health Magazine. It is easy to make your own anti-dandruff treatment. Just mix two-to-four drops of EEO to a tablespoon of coconut oil, apply to your scalp and rinse thoroughly after 20 minutes. EEO is also an active ingredient in Head and shoulders Itchy Scalp formula.
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Natural Bug Repellant
You don’t have to consume eucalyptus oil for this benefit, it is a natural bug repellent that can keep mosquitos and other biting insects away. While many people rely on products that contain DEET, a very strong chemical, many companies have botanical versions made from EEO that are much safer to use according to Healthline.
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Improves Indoor Air Quality
EEO can also be used as an air purifier according to MBG. In fact, a 2017 study published in De Gruyter found that antifungal essential oils can help fight the fungus and mold that can enter your home from air vents. This can help prevent allergic reactions like congestion, eye irritation, and asthma. You can DIY a room spray or use a diffuser.
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