The Australian Aborigines were the first to use Eucalyptus for its medicinal properties. They would use the oil externally to heal wounds and infections. It is both an antiseptic and astringent and, therefore, effectively dries up and cleans the affected area.
Medical Properties Found in Eucalyptus
The oil's primary active ingredient, eucalyptol (cineole), is what gives the leaves this anti-septic quality and its effectiveness against a variety of bacteria, especially Staphylococcus. Eucalyptus has the common name of fever tree, not only because it brings down fever, but more so because it helped to wipe out Malaria in the 1800s. The roots of these trees absorb a huge amount of water, thus drying up mosquito-infested marshes, sending the mosquitoes packing and stopping the spread of the deadly disease.
Eucalyptus is also an expectorant, anti-inflammatory, deodorant and anti-spasmodic. Ointments made of this oil can be applied under the nose or over the chest to relieve congestion and loosen phlegm in the case of a dry cough. It is often added to cough drops, cough syrups and chest rubs for this purpose. Diluted eucalyptus oil can be used as a soothing rub for rheumatism, neuralgia, bruises, sprains, and sore muscles. Some individuals will use these teas and tinctures as an internal deodorant for bad breath and body odour. As an anti-spasmodic, eucalyptus is again used for cough relief and to reduce menstrual cramping.
Eucalyptus Supplement Varieties
Eucalyptus is available as a tincture, cream, ointment, essential oil, or lozenge. Many health food stores carry this fresh or dried leaf in bulk.
It can be ingested through the use of teas or tincture preparations, inhaled, or applied externally. Undiluted eucalyptus oil should never be ingested.
Cautions & Side Effects
As an oil, this should never be ingested. Small amounts of undiluted oil (even in amounts as little as one teaspoon) are toxic and may cause circulatory problems, collapse, suffocation, or death.
When applied topically, this oil should always be diluted in a carrier oil such as almond, grapeseed, or other vegetable oil before applying it to the skin. Applying this oil to the skin may cause a rash in those who are sensitive or allergic to eucalyptus. Eucalyptus tinctures should include 5-10% essential oil, at a dose of 1-3 ml/day. Ointments should contain 5-20% essential oil to be effective.
