Eucalyptus Oil: Top Health Benefits and How to Use It

The antiseptic benefits of Eucalyptus oil have been hailed for centuries.

However, that’s not the only benefit of this amazing essential oil. From relieving a cough to beautifying your hair and skin, Eucalyptus oil is blessed with amazing healing powers. 

Eucalyptus tree leaves and oil have been consumed, chewed, and applied to the skin for many conditions. Eucalyptus contains many different chemicals. These chemicals might have various effects on the body. Also, some research suggests that eucalyptus may have activity against bacteria and fungi.

Also Read: 7 Amazing Benefits of Tea tree oil that you must know

Health Benefits of Eucalyptus

1. Silence a cough

For centuries, eucalyptus oil has helped in relieving cough. It is an antibacterial agent and a natural decongestant. Eucalyptus oil helps in reducing the intensity and frequency of respiratory illnesses. Today, eucalyptus oil is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cough medications. It is also effective in treating cough, colds, sore throats, nasal congestion, asthma.

You can just rub fresh eucalyptus oil on your chest. Another simple way is to inhale the vapor of eucalyptus oil-infused water. Rinsing the mouth with eucalyptus water helps alleviate sore throats.

Also Read: Why common cold is so common in winters?

2. Heal a Wound 

Our ancestors have used eucalyptus leaves to treat wounds and prevent infections for centuries. It is a strong antiseptic. Modern-day studies have proved that eucalyptus oil can promote skin regeneration. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties make it an effective remedy for healing wounds and minor burns.

A study probing the wound healing potential of Eucalyptus revealed that Eucalyptus can be used for external as well as an internal applications for treating wounds. However, you should never apply pure eucalyptus oil directly to your skin. Always dilute it with a carrier oil like almond oil or olive oil.

3. Refreshes your breath

Did you know eucalyptus oil is an excellent natural remedy to bad breath? It has strong antibacterial properties that help fight the bacteria causing the bad odor. Today, many types of mouthwash and toothpaste contain Eucalyptus oil as one of the primary ingredients. 

This essential oil also helps prevent plaque build-up on the teeth and protects the gums against bacteria. Another study found that 30 people with gingivitis and plaque build-up found relief after using eucalyptus oil toothpaste. Also, chewing gum that contains eucalyptus oil can help fight dental issues like plaque, gingivitis, and bleeding.

Also Read: 9 breathing exercises for your lungs

4. Benefits of eucalyptus oil for pain

Certain research suggests that eucalyptus oil can ease joint pain and prevent the same. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, this oil can help soothe the pain. It’s effective in soothing osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies also found this beneficial for healing back pain or joint and muscle injury. 

Just rubbing this essential oil into the muscles and joints has been known to relieve pain. A clinical study revealed that people who inhaled eucalyptus oil after surgery felt less pain and reported lower pressure. In addition to that, another study found that the smell of eucalyptus oil can help calm the pre-operation anxiety. This is attributed to the presence of 1,8-cineole.

Also Read: Easy Ayurvedic Home Remedies for shoulder pain

5. Benefits of eucalyptus oil for hair

Eucalyptus oil helps regulate oil production and fight bacteria associated with oily scalp. Studies show that eucalyptus oil can help fight dandruff and lice. Its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties help fight dry, itchy scalp. Clinical studies also revealed that eucalyptus oil can boost hair growth and prevent oily hair. Also, another study revealed that eucalyptus oil can protect your hair and scalp from UV rays.

Also Read: Indigo Powder for Hair

6. Benefits of eucalyptus oil for skin

A very rejuvenating oil for your skin, eucalyptus oil is a great addition to your skincare regime. It is an excellent natural remedy for dry and damaged skin. In addition to that, eucalyptus oil is a great source of flavonoids that protect your skin against the damaging effect of free radicals. This helps maintain the levels of collagen, delay the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

The antiseptic properties of eucalyptus oil can speed up the healing process of the skin and prevent the development of infections. In addition to that, eucalyptus oil has soothing and cooling properties that soothe inflamed skin and fights acne.

7. Benefits of eucalyptus oil for sleep

Eucalyptus oil is also an excellent remedy for sleep problems. It contains compounds like a-pinene and limonene, which ease your mind and increase the brain’s blood flow. Inhaling this oil opens up blockages in the airways and aids in uninterrupted sleep.

It is also an excellent stress buster. Inhaling eucalyptus oil calms your nerves and prepares your brain for sleep. It alleviates headaches that further helps in fighting restlessness and insomnia.

8. Eucalyptus Oil for Nail Fungus

Eucalyptus oil helps fight bacteria and fungal spores. Some of the common fungal infections include athlete’s foot, ringworm, and nail fungus. Simply mixing 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 tsp olive oil can help in treating nail fungus. 

Just soak a cotton ball and dab it onto the infected area. Repeat it 2 to 3 times a day for best results.

Some more benefits of Eucalyptus oil – 

• Eucalyptus oil is an effective remedy against acne. 
• Steam inhalation of eucalyptus oil aids in relieving headaches and sinuses.
• It can soothe insect bites and heal cuts and bruises.
• Eucalyptus oil is an excellent remedy for stress.
• This oil stimulates your immune system response.

Caution!

Eucalyptus oil is time-tested and proven for generations. It is absolutely safe when used as prescribed. However, ingesting this oil can cause serious side effects. It may show dangerous side effects in children and pets.

Final Takeaway!

Eucalyptus oil is a century-old discovery that has myriad benefits for your body. From relieving your headaches to enhancing your hair and skin, healing your wounds to treating respiratory tract infections, Eucalyptus oil works magic. Just a few drops of this magical potion can transform your health!