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Eucalyptus is a native Australian plant known for its natural healing properties. It is made by crushing and distilling eucalyptus leaves, which are refined into a clear oil with a sharp, crisp scent.
- Eucalyptus Oil as a Natural Antibiotic
The powerful antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus oil have shown to be effective against bacterial and viral infections. It is particularly beneficial in easing respiratory congestion, and has become a key ingredient in many cold and flu remedies.
When inhaled, eucalyptus oil loosens mucus and debris from the lungs. This clears the airways for immediate, soothing relief.
Research has shown eucalyptus oil may effectively kill bacteria and viral infections, and has been seen to effectively manage resistant bacterial infections such as staphylococcus bacteria and E.coli in some studies.
2. Eucalyptus Oil for Pain Management
Eucalyptus oil has natural soothing properties. Studies have shown eucalyptus oil may be effective in speeding up healing post-surgery, and promoting joint and muscle health.
Topical pain relief ointments frequently contain eucalyptus oil, which is believed to be effective because it takes a two-step approach to pain relief.
When eucalyptus oil is applied directly to the source of the pain, the soothing properties reduce swelling and redness, and calm the area. The natural scent of eucalyptus creates cold sensations on the skin. This distracts users from the pain itself, allowing the muscles and ligaments around the area to relax, which aids pain relief.
3. Eucalyptus Oil has Mental Health Benefits
Research has shown eucalyptus oil to have calming properties.
When inhaled, eucalyptus oil has shown to release neurotransmitters which stimulate the release of the ‘happy’ hormones, serotonin and dopamine. This quiets nerves and reduces anxiety. Serotonin and dopamine are the body’s natural defense against mood disorders such as nervousness.
Placing eucalyptus oil into a reed diffuser or oil burner can bring a sense of calm and tranquility to the home.
4. Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial and soothing properties, with a crisp, fresh smell. This makes it ideal in the natural solution of a wide range of oral health issues such as gingivitis, bad breath and oral herpes.
The antiviral properties of eucalyptus oil have shown some evidence of fighting the HSV-1 virus, which is responsible for the development and spread of fever blisters. Applying topical ointments containing eucalyptus oil can sooth the area, and may slow or prevent the spread to others.
Eucalyptus oil has shown to break down plaque and promote fresh breath. It is often found as an ingredient in natural toothpaste, and sugar-free gum.
5. Eucalyptus Oil as a Pest Repellent
Australian natives have used eucalyptus oil as a natural pest repellent for generations.
Eucalyptus oil is effective against small insects such as ticks and mosquitoes, and is often found as an environmentally-friendly ingredient in the pesticides used to protect farmer’s crops. It has been known to kill lice, and may be applied directly to the skin or hair as a natural bug spray.
Research has shown eucalyptus oil may be effective as a rodent repellent, which may reduce infestations of rats and mice in residential areas.
Conclusion
Eucalyptus oil has a wide range of health benefits which are largely backed-up by scientific research. It is a common ingredient in insecticides, topical pain relief creams and gels, toothpastes, oral health products and the anti-viral remedies used to treat cold sores and oral herpes.
As an antibacterial, eucalyptus oil has shown to be effective as a natural ingredient that may be used as part of the successful management of resistant bacterial infections.
Eucalyptus oil is toxic when ingested, so should be used cautiously in small quantities. It is most effective when inhaled or applied to the skin. You may also like to add a few drops to a warm bath.