Eucalyptus Essential Oil Health Benefits

Although the eucalyptus tree is native to Australia and Tasmania, it has also been cultivated in the United States. The Blue Gum, also known as the Australian Fever Tree, is the species most often used in conventional and alternative medicine. Fresh leaves are boiled in water, and the vapor is condensed and caught to make eucalyptus essential oil. Although the essential oil is very strong, it is safe enough to be used in an undiluted form.

Stimulating Vapors

• Eucalyptus oil is useful as a stimulant. The vapors are an effective treatment for asthma, bronchitis, sinus congestion, colds and all manners of respiratory ailments. The oil can be massaged into the chest or dabbed under the nose so that the vapors are breathed in. Eucalyptus oil can be added to boiling water or a vaporizer to infuse the air with the aroma. The vapors can be concentrated if a tent is constructed to cover the steaming oil and the congested patient. Eucalyptus ointment can also be rubbed into the chest and back to break up chest congestion.

  Eucalyptus oil may be mixed with sugar and water to make cough drops. Many commercial cough drops contain eucalyptus oil because it breaks up congestion, soothes sore throats and quiets the cough. Mixing several drops of the oil with warm water will make a very effective gargle for sore throats.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

• Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory properties. Add eucalyptus oil to bee's wax and vitamin E oil to make an effective ointment. Rubbing the ointment into the skin will ease muscle pain and inflamed tissues.

Insect Repellant

• Eucalyptus oil can be mixed with water to create an insect repellant. Dab the oil on the skin to repel insects and reduce the risk of malaria and other mosquito borne illnesses. The oil also discourages mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water, so some people will add it to pools and areas where water collects. Eucalyptus trees have been planted in marshy areas and fever districts to reduce the mosquito population.

Germicial, Antiseptic and Deodorizing Properties

• Eucalyptus oil has germicidal and antiseptic properties and can be used to treat both wounds and burns. The oil can be added to a warm bath to cover large areas of skin. Small amounts of oil can be wiped directly on the wound or burn with a cotton ball or cotton swab. The oil will deodorize the wound as it aids the healing process.

Ingesting the Oil

• A drop of eucalyptus oil on the tongue will help to alleviate nausea. Several drops mixed in warm water and employed as an oral rinse will treat gum disease, cavities and mouth infections as it freshens the breath. Ingesting the oil will also help balance blood sugar and settle intestinal discomfort.