Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus trees are one of the tallest trees having various medicinal benefits. Eucalyptus oil is obtained from the extract of eucalyptus leaves. It is a pale yellow-colored oil with a characteristic odor that must be diluted before it can be used for medicinal purposes.
Topical application of Eucalyptus oil along with a carrier oil like coconut oil is beneficial to manage acne. It inhibits the activity of acne-causing bacteria due to its antibacterial property. Eucalyptus oil (2-3 drops) can also be added in warm bath water to help fight against certain skin infections. Massaging Eucalyptus oil on the chest and back helps to provide relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion as it promotes the secretion of sputum to clear the airways and manage certain respiratory infections due to its expectorant activity. It is also found to be useful in case of bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory property as it reduces the inflammation in the airways and helps ease breathing. You can also apply Eucalyptus oil on your beard to help improve the hair growth.
It is recommended to keep Eucalyptus oil away from the reach of children as its oral administration can cause various side effects such as burning sensation in the mouth and throat, vomiting, respiratory problems and even seizures[2][3].
Topical application of Eucalyptus oil along with a carrier oil like coconut oil is beneficial to manage acne. It inhibits the activity of acne-causing bacteria due to its antibacterial property. Eucalyptus oil (2-3 drops) can also be added in warm bath water to help fight against certain skin infections. Massaging Eucalyptus oil on the chest and back helps to provide relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion as it promotes the secretion of sputum to clear the airways and manage certain respiratory infections due to its expectorant activity. It is also found to be useful in case of bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory property as it reduces the inflammation in the airways and helps ease breathing. You can also apply Eucalyptus oil on your beard to help improve the hair growth.
It is recommended to keep Eucalyptus oil away from the reach of children as its oral administration can cause various side effects such as burning sensation in the mouth and throat, vomiting, respiratory problems and even seizures[2][3].
What are the synonyms of Eucalyptus oil?
Eucalyptus globulus, Ekaliptah, Sugandha Patrah, Blue gum, Eucalyptus, Yukeliptas, Yukkaalimaram, Nilgiri, Jeevakamu, Tailaparnah, Nilaniryasa
What is the source of Eucalyptus oil?
Plant Based
Benefits of Eucalyptus oil
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil contains a compound that has anti-inflammatory property. It inhibits chemicals that cause inflammation thus reducing inflammation of the respiratory tract. Thereby making it easier for the asthmatic person to breathe. Due to this, it may be useful in managing long-term bronchial asthma[2][3-5].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil helps to reduce the symptoms of asthma. According to Ayurveda, the main doshas involved in asthma are Vata and Kapha. The vitiated ‘Vata’ combines with deranged ‘Kapha dosha’ in the lungs causing obstruction in the respiratory passage. This results in difficulty in breathing. This condition is known as Swas Roga or Asthma. Applying Eucalyptus oil on back and chest helps to calm Kapha and loosen the accumulated mucus in the lungs. This gives relief from the symptoms of asthma.
Tips:
a. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
c. Massage on the chest and back to get relief from the symptoms of asthma.
Tips:
a. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
c. Massage on the chest and back to get relief from the symptoms of asthma.
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil may be useful in managing bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Eucalyptus oil inhibits the production of nitric oxide that plays a significant role in inflammatory diseases. It is also useful in managing the symptoms of bronchitis, such as a persistent cough that causes difficulty in breathing[2][3-6].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil is useful if you have cough related problems like bronchitis. In Ayurveda, this disease is known as Kasroga. A massage with Eucalyptus oil reduces excess mucus accumulation and reduces inflammation because of its Kapha balancing and Ushna (hot) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
2. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
3. Massage on the chest and back to get relief from congestion in bronchitis.
Tips:
1. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
2. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
3. Massage on the chest and back to get relief from congestion in bronchitis.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Eucalyptus oil may be useful in managing nasal congestion due to cold as well as sinus congestion[4][17][18].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil helps to control nasal congestion. During winter, due to excess Kapha, mucus becomes sticky and thick. This causes nasal blockage. Applying Eucalyptus oil or taking inhalation liquefies the mucus. This is due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tips:
1. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a bowl.
2. Cover your face with a towel and inhale for 5-10 minutes.
3. Repeat once or twice a day to get relief from nasal congestion.
Tips:
1. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a bowl.
2. Cover your face with a towel and inhale for 5-10 minutes.
3. Repeat once or twice a day to get relief from nasal congestion.
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial and antiplaque properties. Due to these properties, it may be useful in preventing and reducing the accumulation of dental plaque[4][7][8].
Modern Science View
Gingivitis is a gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial property due to which it may be useful in inhibiting the growth of gingivitis-causing bacteria[4][7].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Eucalyptus oil may be useful in managing bad breath[4].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil helps to manage bad breath when it is used in gargle water. Eucalyptus oil has a pleasant smell which might reduce bad breath. Avoid drinking the gargle water.
Tips:
a. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a glass of hot water.
b. Gargle in the morning to manage bad breath.
Tips:
a. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a glass of hot water.
b. Gargle in the morning to manage bad breath.
Modern Science View
Topical application of Eucalyptus oil along with peppermint oil may have a mentally-relaxing effect and may help in thinking better. However, it may not reduce the pain completely[4][9][10].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil might give relief from a headache associated with common cold. This kind of headache is mainly due to excess Kapha. Eucalyptus oil when applied on the forehead or inhaled helps to remove mucus due to its Kapha balancing property. It also has a pleasant smell which helps to relax the mind.
Tips:
a. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a bowl.
b. Cover your face with a towel and inhale for 5-10 minutes.
c. Repeat once or twice a day to get relief from headache.
Tips:
a. Put 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil in a bowl.
b. Cover your face with a towel and inhale for 5-10 minutes.
c. Repeat once or twice a day to get relief from headache.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Eucalyptus oil may be useful in managing wounds[2][4].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. Eucalyptus oil with coconut oil helps in quick healing and reduce inflammation due to its Ropan (healing) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 2-4 drop of Eucalyptus oil.
2. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area once or twice a day for quick healing of wound.
Tips:
1. Take 2-4 drop of Eucalyptus oil.
2. Dilute with 1 -2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area once or twice a day for quick healing of wound.
Modern Science View
Certain compounds present in Eucalyptus oil have toxic effect against head lice eggs and adult female lice. Thus, spraying or applying Eucalyptus oil on the scalp may be useful in managing head lice[4][14-16].
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil may be useful in managing acne. Certain compounds present in Eucalyptus oil have antibacterial property. Topical application of Eucalyptus oil (in the form of oil or cream) inhibit the activity of acne-causing bacteria[4][5][19]. Always mix Eucalyptus oil with Coconut oil or any carrier oil before applying on the skin.
How effective is Eucalyptus oil?
Insufficient evidence
Acne, Appetite stimulant, Asthma, Bad odor from mouth, Burns, Dental plaque, Head lice, Headache, Inflammation of gums, Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis), Influenza (flu), Nasal congestion (blocked nose), Wound infection
Precautions when using Eucalyptus oil
Allergy
Modern Science View
Avoid using Eucalyptus oil on the skin directly. Dilute it with Coconut oil before applying on the skin.
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Avoid Eucalyptus oil during breastfeeding[4].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Avoid Eucalyptus oil during pregnancy[4].
FAQs about Eucalyptus oil precautions
How to use Eucalyptus oil
1. Eucalyptus oil
A. Congestion
a. Take 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1 teaspoon of Coconut oil
c. Massage on the chest to get relief from congestion and cough.
Or,
1. Take some boiling water in a large bowl.
2. Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil into the water.
3. Cover your face with a towel.
4. Inhale the vapors for 5-7 minutes to get relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion.
B. Pain relief
a. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1-2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
c. Massage on the affected area to get relief from pain.
A. Congestion
a. Take 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1 teaspoon of Coconut oil
c. Massage on the chest to get relief from congestion and cough.
Or,
1. Take some boiling water in a large bowl.
2. Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil into the water.
3. Cover your face with a towel.
4. Inhale the vapors for 5-7 minutes to get relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion.
B. Pain relief
a. Take 2-4 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
b. Dilute with 1-2 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
c. Massage on the affected area to get relief from pain.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Taking Eucalyptus oil bath can give you relief from stress and pain. Just add 1-2 drops of oil into the bathing water.
But, before adding the oil in bathing water, it is recommended to go for a skin allergy test. To do this test:
1. Put 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil mixed with 1 drop of Coconut oil on the skin.
2. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and look for any skin irritation.
3. If you do not find any reaction you can use Eucalyptus oil in bathing water.
But, before adding the oil in bathing water, it is recommended to go for a skin allergy test. To do this test:
1. Put 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil mixed with 1 drop of Coconut oil on the skin.
2. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and look for any skin irritation.
3. If you do not find any reaction you can use Eucalyptus oil in bathing water.
Modern Science View
To use Eucalyptus oil as mosquito repellant:
1. Put the oil in the infusers.
2. Or in spray bottles.
1. Put the oil in the infusers.
2. Or in spray bottles.
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil can be inhaled in the form of vapors:
1. Take some boiling water in a large bowl.
2. Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil into the water.
3. Cover your face with a towel.
4. Inhale the vapors for 5-7 minutes to get relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion.
1. Take some boiling water in a large bowl.
2. Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus oil into the water.
3. Cover your face with a towel.
4. Inhale the vapors for 5-7 minutes to get relief from cold, cough and nasal congestion.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Eucalyptus oil is safe to inhale after adding to hot water. It helps to clear nasal congestion and helps to manage a headache by removing mucus. This is due to its Kapha balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Eucalyptus oil is toxic. Internal consumption of the oil in excess amount may result in poisoning. It is recommended to consult your doctor while taking Eucalyptus oil internally[21].
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Eucalyptus oil in beard growth. However, Eucalyptus oil when applied on the scalp increases ceramide levels which might be responsible for promoting hair growth. Eucalyptus oil also improves hair texture as well as luster and might also promote overall beard health[22].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil might help in beard growth due to its Snigdha (oily) and Kapha balancing property. It moisturizes the beard and prevents it from drying, thereby preventing hair fall. It also increases hair quality and gives shine to the beard.
Modern Science View
Yes, Eucalyptus oil might help in removing bed bugs. Eucalyptus oil contains natural insecticidal compounds that are effective against bed bugs like Cimex lectularius species. It prevents the growth of bed bugs, eventually killing them off[23].
Modern Science View
No, Eucalyptus oil might not be safe for children. Oral administration of Eucalyptus oil in children might cause undesirable side effects like burning sensation in the mouth and throat, vomiting, respiratory problems and even seizures. Therefore, it is recommended to keep Eucalyptus oil and preparations containing Eucalyptus oil away from children[24][25].
Modern Science View
No, Eucalyptus oil should not be taken orally as it may be harmful. Studies suggest that taking Eucalyptus oil have shown many harmful effects. Eucalyptus oil has also been used in dentistry as an anti-inflammatory agent and has caused side effects like burning sensation in the mouth and ulceration on mere topical application on the gums[26][27].
Modern Science View
Eucalyptus oil is good for hair as it contains certain constituents that stimulate ceramide production when applied on the scalp. Ceramide is mainly responsible for promoting hair growth. Eucalyptus oil also improves hair texture, luster and overall scalp health due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties[28][22].
Ayurvedic View
Eucalyptus oil might help in hair growth due to its Snigdha (oily) and Kapha balancing property. It keeps the hair and scalp moisturized and prevents dryness which might cause hair fall. It also promotes hair quality and shine and improves the overall health of hair.
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.