Eucalyptus commonly known as ‘Gum Trees’, these essential parts of Australian culture belong to a diverse genus of flowering plants and shrubs called the Myrtaceae family.
There are almost 900 species of eucalypts, with the majority found in Australia and the rest found worldwide in temperate, tropical climates.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF EUCALYPTUS OIL
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antibacterial and therefore prevents infections
- Antifungal
- Antiseptic, therefore heals wounds, ulcers, burns, cuts, and abrasions
- Used to treat herpes, acne, chicken pox, and other skin infections
- Aids with stress and anxiety
- Relieves itchiness from insect bites/stings
- Aids with stomach problems as its vermifugal properties cause it to remove intestinal germs
- Relieves pain
- Treats fevers by lowering body temperature
- Treats respiratory conditions such as colds, coughs, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, and sinusitis
- Aids with the removal of mucus from the lungs
- Alleviates arthritis symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and pain relieving qualities
- Works as a stimulant by relieving mental exhaustion
- Improves and stimulates the immune system
- Improves oral health by preventing cavities, dental plaque, and other infections
- Aids with diabetes when ingested as it regulates blood sugar levels
- Natural insect repellent
- Prevents lice and improves scalp health when added to shampoos
- Used in a diffuser or similar, eucalyptus oil cleans the air and gets rid of mould
- Prevents odours
WARNINGS
Eucalyptus oil is generally safe to be used on the skin and ingested ONLY if it has been diluted. If a reaction occurs, it can cause a burning sensation, skin irritation, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, feelings of suffocation, and can sometimes worsen asthma.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use/take this oil, nor should infants or young children.
REFERENCES
- http://www.anbg.gov.au/cpbr/cd-keys/euclid3/euclidsample/html/learn.htm
- https://draxe.com/eucalyptus-oil-uses-benefits/
- http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/7-health-benefits-of-eucalyptus-oil/
- http://www.naturallivingideas.com/benefits-uses-of-eucalyptus-oil/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus
- http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266580.php
- http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-eucalyptus-oil-for-skin-hair-health/
- http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-700-eucalyptus.aspx?activeingredientid=700
- http://skinnywithfiber.org/10-great-health-benefits-of-eucalyptus-oil/
- https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-eucalyptus-essential-oil.html