What is Eucalyptus Oil Used to Treat?

The eucalyptus tree is native to Australia but now grows in many areas of the world. It is a known fact that the leaves contain a strong volatile oil that has a long, past history of use in medicinal preparations, but what is eucalyptus oil used to treat in modern times? The different varieties of eucalyptus can vary between small shrubs and tall trees and the oils these trees produce are popular for medicinal use.

Distillation

• Eucalyptus oil is derived from the tannin rich eucalyptus leaves. Eucalyptus leaves contain tannins, flavonoids and volatile oils. The dried leaves are placed in a still designed for removing the essential oils from plant material. After the essential oils have been expelled from the leaves, the oil must be stored in a dark container to prevent the volatile oils from breaking down. Eucalyptus oil contains cineole also called eucalyptol, a substance that has antiseptic properties.

Cuts and Skin Problems

• The antiseptic properties of eucalyptus oil make it effective in treating minor cuts, scrapes and wounds. To treat skin ailments topically, eucalyptus oil is added to a cream or ointment and applied directly to the affected area. If you have straight eucalyptus essential oil it can be diluted in a base oil such as sesame oil or olive oil and rubbed into the wound. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests adding 15 to 30 drops of eucalyptus oil to the desired base oil for topical application.

Respiratory Discomfort

• Eucalyptus oil can be used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds and mild congestion. The properties of eucalyptus oil can help to loosen phlegm in the nasal tracts, which can help to relieve the build up of fluids. To treat a cold with eucalyptus oil you can use a combination of vapors and rubs. Eucalyptus oil, added to an ointment or salve, can be rubbed directly onto the chest area. To create a steam or vapor, add a few drops of oil to a bowl of hot water. Put your head over the bowl and cover with a towel. Breathing in the eucalyptus infused steam vapors can help to clear the nasal passages.

Oral Health

• The antiseptic properties of eucalyptus oil can help to improve oral health and kill germs that cause bad breath. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to water and use daily as a mouthwash. Many commercial dental products contain eucalyptus oil. Toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash and toothpowders are all readily available. You can also find eucalyptus oil infused toothpicks or infuse your own by soaking them in the essential oil and letting them dry before use.

Additional Uses and Considerations

• Eucalyptus oil is a strong essential oil. It is generally advised to dilute it in a base oil, salve or ointment before applying directly to the skin. A few drops of eucalyptus oil can be added to hot water and consumed to sooth minor respiratory discomfort. This dose should not exceed a few drops in a large cup of water. Eucalyptus leaves can be infused in hot water and made into tea. The oil applied to a cloth can also be used to revive someone who has fainted.