Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil has long been known to have cleansing, purifying, and stimulating effects, making it useful in aromatherapy and as an ingredient in countless skin care products. These plants are known to have several healing properties and are used worldwide for everything from clearing congestion in the lungs to alleviating sore muscles. The Eucalyptus oil is obtained from the leaves and branches by steam distillation.

As an essential oil, eucalyptus is commonly used for pain relief but there are contraindications that you should be aware of so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to use it in your own aromatherapy practice.

Eucalyptus Uses

There are many benefits and uses of eucalyptus. The following is a list of the major benefits:

1. High in antioxidants

Antioxidants can help boost the immune system, slow the effects of aging, and repair damage that has already been caused to cells. One way antioxidants work is by helping to bind to and destroy free radicals; these are atoms that have had one or more of their electrons become loose and move about the body. 

2. Colds, Flu, and Infections

Any type of upper respiratory tract infection can be treated with eucalyptus oil, including sinus infections and bronchitis. It can be used as a gargle to help treat sore throats and digestive issues. It can also help fight the flu, bronchial colds, and the common cold.

3. Wounds

Eucalyptus oil can kill bacteria, which makes it effective for treating wounds or skin infections, like acne. It also helps to speed up the healing of wounds and burns by preventing infection from setting in.

5. Can help keep your teeth healthy

Eucalyptus is both antibacterial, which can help keep your mouth and gums healthy, as well as healthy for the enamel on your teeth. Inhaling its vapours or gargling with some oil can help to keep the bacteria in your mouth at bay.

5. Soothes Dry Skin

This essential oil can act as a moisturizer for your skin. It takes away itchiness and helps to restore the natural oil balance in your skin. It also can reduce acne breakouts and eliminate the bacteria that causes these blemishes.

Side Effects of Eucalyptus

It is important to avoid eucalyptus oil if you are pregnant. The oil can cause uterine contractions and even induce labor. Those with a history of asthma or epilepsy should also avoid this oil. For most people, however, the medicinal properties of eucalyptus essential oil make it an excellent choice for pain relief. If experiencing difficulty breathing, coughing, headaches, or migraines, one could inhale the vapors from an oil diffuser with eucalyptus oils.

Certain side effects should be considered when using eucalyptus oil. The following list includes the most prominent of these side effects:

• Nausea: This is a common side effect of many herbs and natural products, whether they are good or bad for you. Luckily, this is not an issue with eucalyptus oil.
• Stomach upset: This is another side effect that can be caused by many different supplements and herbs. However, since eucalyptus oil is usually used in small doses and is widely considered to be a safe supplement, this particular side effect may not be a big concern.
• Diarrhea: This is an issue that can arise in people who cannot break down certain supplement chemicals. If you have a case of diarrhea or if it is causing too much distress for you, discontinue using the eucalyptus oil until you have cleared up your problem.

Eucalyptus essential oil causes vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea when ingested orally. Inhaling eucalyptus oil can also cause coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, headache, sore throat, or asthma attacks. Overuse may lead to dizziness, seizures, and respiratory depression. It is not recommended for use by pregnant women.

Contraindications Related to Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus essential oil is contraindicated for use in epileptic individuals as it may provoke seizures. Use should also be avoided with low blood pressure or a heart condition. Certain herbal treatments for anxiety can potentiate the action of eucalyptus oils, so it should be avoided when using this oil in high doses to treat stress or insomnia.

• Pregnant or nursing women: The oil is considered a safe herb for pregnant women and nursing mothers, but it is questionable as to whether it’s safe for infants.
• Children: Only those over the age of 18 should take the oil.
• For those who have a bad case of eczema or psoriasis: The oil will start to dry out your skin. It also can make these conditions worse.

Origins of Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is native to Australia, but it can also be found in many other countries. It grows in a variety of climates and can also be found at different altitudes.