Eucalyptus Oil

Blend a few drops of eucalyptus oil and a massage oil, and use it for a cooling and stimulating effect on both mind and body. Learn more in the following article.

Note: Pure essential oils are powerful and can occasionally cause side effects. Be sure you understand and take responsibility for your choices. If you are pregnant, nursing, or chemically sensitive, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare professional.

Eucalyptus: The Way to Smoother Breathing

The eucalyptus is a popular Australian remedy that was first introduced to the world by the aborigines as a treatment for many kinds of ailments. Its uses include treating wounds, suppressing colds, relaxing the mind, and repelling insects.

History

In the 19th century, the Director of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens introduced the eucalyptus plant to the West. Upon which, cultivation of the tree has spread to Europe and North America.

Ecology

The eucalyptus is a tall, evergreen tree of the myrtle family that is mainly found in Australia and Tasmania. It bears pendent leaves and umbels of white, red or pink flowers. Its value lies in its timber, gum, and of course, its oil.

One of its species, known as the blue gum eucalyptus, is found in the United States. It has a trunk that grows to 300 feet or more and is covered by peeling papery bark. The leaves, when young, are opposite, sessile, soft, oblong, and pointed, and have a hoary blue colour. When matured, they are alternate, petioled, leathery, and shaped like a scimitar. The flowers are solitary and white, with no petals, many white stamens, and a woody calyx.

Aroma

The eucalyptus has a clear and sharp piercing aroma coupled with a sweet undertone but bitter taste. Like peppermint oil, it feels cool to the touch.

Health Notes

A prominent quality of eucalyptus oil is that its cooling effect makes it a febrifuge (substance that reduces body temperature), which is recommended for most kinds of fevers.

The antiseptic nature of the eucalyptus leaf has made it the ideal remedy for most viral infections, respiratory problems, burns, blisters, and wounds. Its characteristics are aplenty, from decongesting, analgesic, antiviral to deodorizing. When the oil is burned, it is effective in killing most airborne bacteria and viruses.

Eucalyptus oil use improves blood circulation and therefore relieves muscle aches and pains.

Its piercing scent, which is also similar to peppermint, helps to relieve breathing congestions caused by colds and hay fever, which is common in most households. Being an expectorant, eucalyptus oil is good for relieving chesty coughs.

The smell of eucalyptus oil may also be used as an insect repellant. The calming effect of eucalyptus also offers emotional benefits to the users. It has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and helps calm a person emotionally.

About the Author

Nur Syahid, a Natural Aromatherapist, specializes in Bio-Tech Aromatherapy including oxygen therapy, ozone therapy, and health aromatherapy. Awarded ISO 9002 and ISO 14001. www.belairworld.com.

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