The eucalyptus is a diverse genus of trees that belong to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. There are more than 700 species of eucalyptus trees and shrubs, with a majority of them native to Australia and to a lesser extent Indonesia, Philippines as well as Papua New Guinea. Out of 700 species, only 15 species can be found outside Australia, with 9 of them being exclusively non-Australian species.
Today eucalypti are cultivated in various regions across the world with similar climate to Australia’s such as Americas, Mediterranean Europe, Africa, Middle East, as well as Indian subcontinent. Eucalyptus products have found its uses for various needs, ranging from industrial, medical, up to cultural uses. These are the 15 health benefits of young living essential oils.
About Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is essentially oil that is extracted and from the eucalyptus plant. It is known to be an antiseptic and deodorising substance, and also an effective insect repellent. Eucalyptus oils are also found in several commercial products ranging from decongestants, toothpastes, cough medicines, muscular ointments, and also insect repellent lotions.
A majority of eucalyptus oil comes from the eucalyptus globulus, or simpler known as the Blue Gum. Eucalyptus oil is the most common product used as a remedy for respiratory diseases. Here are the eucalyptus oil benefits.
How does Eucalyptus Takes Care of the Lungs?
Here are the benefits of Eucalyptus for lungs health:
- It is an Expectorant
The first benefit of eucalyptus for lungs is by being an expectorant. An expectorant is a medicine that helps to bring up mucus and other foreign materials from the lungs, bronchi as well as the trachea.
Eucalyptus works as an expectorant by cleansing and draining mucus from the lungs, thinning the mucus, to be followed by lubricating the affected area of the respiratory tract. Meanwhile, eucalypti are expectorants due to cineole, an active natural ingredient found within eucalyptus leaves. Also read: Benefits of Swimming for Lungs Health
- It Contains Antioxidants
Eucalyptus products are rich in antioxidants which make it very effective for strengthening the immune system. A 2012 article has it that Chinese researchers analysed eucalyptus oils and came up with the conclusion that they carry high reserves of phenolic compounds, which are none other than plant-based antioxidants. In the long run, diseases such as cold, flu, coughs and other respiratory illnesses can be prevented at best.
- Eucalypti are also Anti-Irritant
Eucalyptus oils are anti-irritant. In relation to this, eucalyptus oils also possess the abilities to reduce swelling and redness, just like what happens to the throat as you get cold. Researchers belonging to The Department of Physiology of Spain’s University of Santiago de Compostela School of Medicine verdict that this turns out possible due to eucalyptus oil’s ability to inhibit the production of nitric oxide.
- They Have Decongestant Properties
Decongestant is a medical term which means that something is used to relieve nasal congestion. Decongestants work by narrowing down the blood vessels in the nose, decrease swelling and inflammation, hence allowing air to flow through and mucus to liquify and drain. Eucalyptus is an example of a natural decongestant, and normally it comes in the form of lozenges and syrups.
- Treats Various Respiratory Diseases
The traits above make eucalyptus a wonderful remedy for treating a wide range of respiratory diseases. Eucalyptus can heal a simple cold, symptoms of flu, cough, symptoms of asthma, or even more serious respiratory diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis and sinusitis.
- Gets Rid of Harmful Microorganisms
Eucalyptus oil can get rid of numerous harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, as well as fungi. This ability is a basic potential that respiratory medicines must possess.
- An Effective Source of Aromatherapy
Without having to experience respiratory diseases, the final benefit of eucalyptus for lungs is that it already promotes a healthy respiratory system because it is an aromatherapy on its own right. The refreshingly fragrant scent of it relaxes the lungs, the mind and the other senses. Not to mention that the vapours are also antiseptic to ensure that the air you are breathing is utmost clean.
What are the Other Uses of Eucalyptus?
Apart from the benefits of eucalyptus for lungs, eucalyptus has also found other functions, such as these;
- As a Wound Treatment
Eucalyptus is an excellent choice for treating wounds due to its antimicrobial and antiseptic nature. It soothes the affected area and guards the infected area from further infections caused by air exposure and microbial activities.
- Prevents Mental Exhaustion
People who suffer from certain neurological conditions and disorders don’t have their brain to work optimally. Eucalyptus oil works as a stimulant enhances brain performance, treats the health risks of stress, and cheers us up.
- Heals Muscular Pain
Eucalyptus’ anti-inflammatory trait is also useful to treat muscular and joint pains or aches.
- Upholds Oral Care
Eucalyptus also turns out to be a common ingredient in various oral care products, such as toothpastes and mouthwashes due to its germicidal properties. In the end, you don’t have to worry about cavities and plaque.
- Cures Fever
The eucalyptus oil does a great job in treating fever and reduce body temperature. No wonder why the eucalyptus oil is also referred to as the “fever oil.”
Eucalyptus Respiratory Healing Recipes
- Drop several drops of eucalyptus essential oil into your diffuser before you sleep. With this method, you can sleep while breathing the air filled with the healing goodness of eucalyptus all night long. By morning, you are likely to feel fit and fresh.
- Make a steam bath by pouring boiling hot water into a bowl and drop 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil into the mixture. Soak a face towel into it, squeeze and place it on top of your head as it gets damp. Inhale and exhale deeply for approximately five to then minutes.
- Mix a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil into water and gargle the mixture as a prevention against throat discomfort and to get a clearer throat.
- In Germany, there is now an innovation in the form of eucalyptus therapeutic tea to cure throat irritations.
- Drop 1-3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil into the chest, and massage it gently. The fragrant aroma soothes and calms the throat and dilates the blood vessels, which allows more oxygen into the lungs in order to breathe normally.