Home Remedies Using Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is made by extracting the oil from the leaves of the tree. Eucalyptus trees, which are otherwise known as "Gum trees," are members of the Myrtaceae family. The eucalyptus tree is a native to Australia, and has more than 700 species. Eucalyptus oil has many benefits, and is often used in home remedies.

History

• It was first discovered by botanists that the eucalyptus scent came from the oil of the leaves of the eucalyptus tree after the "First Fleet" arrived in Australia in 1788. The eucalyptus oil was first produced in 1851 by Joseph Bosito, who was a pharmacist in Yorkshire. Since then, there has been many other distilleries that produced the eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil is widely used as a repellent, fragrance, flavoring, antiseptic and for pharmaceutical uses. The eucalyptus oil became so popular, that it was in great demand when there was an outbreak of the influenza in 1919.

Types

• Eucalyptus oils are grouped into three categories: medicinal, perfumery and industrial. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil can be used as a treatment for bronchitis and other respiratory problems. The eucalyptus oil is used in certain products such as soaps, perfumes and lotions as fragrances. Eucalyptus oil can even be used as an ingredient in baked products, candies and beverages. The use of eucalyptus oil has also played an important role in the mining industry.

Remedies

• The eucalyptus oil is a multipurpose essential oil, that can be used as a home remedy for treating congestion and colds. Add 5-10 drops of eucalyptus oil to 2 cups of steaming water in a bowl. Inhale steam to loosen mucus, and relieve sinus pressure. Eucalyptus oil can also be used as a deodorizer by mixing 1 teaspoon of eucalyptus oil with 1 cup of water. Use the solution to deodorize kitchen counters and sinks. Use eucalyptus oil to remove gum from clothing. Tip a few drops on to the gum to dissolve it, and wash and rinse as usual.

Risk Factors

• Using the recommended dosage of eucalyptus oil should not have any risk factors associated with it. It is recommended that children should not ingest eucalyptus oil, which can be poisonous because of their low body weight. If the proper dosage is not taken, side effects may include: vomiting, drowsiness or unconsciousness. Minor depression of consciousness may occur after ingestion of 2-3mL of eucalyptus oil. In more severe cases, seizures may occur.

Precautions

• If you are pregnant, breast-feeding or taking prescription medications, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before using eucalyptus oil. it is extremely important to rule out any possibility of drug interactions before ingesting eucalyptus oil. If you suffer from certain illness such as liver disease, gastrointestinal tract or high blood pressure, you should avoid using eucalyptus oil.