The Incredible Benefits of Eucalyptus: Herb and Essential Oil

Eucalyptus is another one of my favorite plants. Eucalyptus is a towering tree native to Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines; and is widely renowned not only for its beauty but also for its versatile uses, particularly in the realm of health and wellness. With its aromatic leaves and powerful oil, the Eucalyptus tree offers a range of benefits that many cultures have been capitalizing on for centuries. In this post, I will dive into, a little, how some people have used and continue to use Eucalyptus as an herb.

DID YOU KNOW!?! or HAVE YOU NOTICED?!?! Eucalyptus can be found in many cough and cold remedies, cough and cold medicines, skin creams, skin ointments, muscle relief creams, bug repellants, mouthwash, toothpaste, teas, cleaners, and even some showers hanging from the nozzles. WHY??… you may ask… BECAUSE Eucalyptus, like many other plants, is full of antioxidants, cineole, and flavonoids (catechins, isorhamnetin, luteolin, kaempferol, phloretin, and quercetin), which is just a scientific way of saying… There are a lot of nutrients and benefits packed into this plant. This is why the word, powerful, is commonly used to describe how herbs and oils aid our bodies.

1. Respiratory Relief

As a mom, nurse, and herbalist, I’ve seen firsthand how Eucalyptus can work wonders for the respiratory system. This is on my list of go-to herbs when congestion hits my household. I will usually use the herb in a tea a few times per day until I am no longer ill and up to several weeks after I was sick. I add a few drops of the essential oil to the diffuser, especially at night. I might add a few drops to a bath for the kids. I also will commonly add a drop or two of the essential oil and rub it on the chest, back, behind the ears, and on the feet of myself and my children when congestion is running rapidly in the house. The almost instant reopening of my stuffy nose is enough for me to say this is a breathe again plant. **pro tip- be mindful of where you get your herbs and oils. Quality matters, and its a difference you can feel.**

Why do I feel the benefits…. Well, research has shown eucalyptus can aid with loosening up mucus, aiding you to cough up the mucus, and even improve lung function. So while eucalyptus is aiding you with you with respiratory symptoms, research also shows it helps aid with fighting respiratory infections by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

2. Natural Antiseptic

Eucalyptus oil contains properties that are antimicrobial in nature, making it natures freshener, germ-killer and degreasing agent. It’s a popular ingredient in wound washes and antiseptic sprays, protecting minor cuts and scrapes from infection. I love adding drops of essential oils or even the plant itself to my cleaning products. It’s like having aromatherapy when cleaning the house. When it comes to freshness… adding a few drops to the diffuser, dryer, or DIY air freshener are great ways to get rid of smell while also receiving the healing benefits of the plant.

3. Pain and Inflammation Relief

Studies suggest that Eucalyptus oil can help reduce pain and inflammation. Applying diluted Eucalyptus essential oil to the affected area can provide relief from ailments like arthritis, muscle pain, and even headaches. When you use it you may feel a cool or warming sensation to the area, almost like nature’s icy hot. I commonly use this in combination with peppermint essential oil in a cream or balm to relieve sore muscles before and after working out or while ill.

4. Boosting Mental Clarity

If you think about it … it makes sense why eucalyptus could aid with clearing your mind and giving you a burst of energy. Eucalyptus is great for opening up the airway and decreasing inflammation. As a result, if you can breathe better and you have less inflammation… you will have more air and blood flow around the body thus resulting in mental clarity. Many people find that diffusing Eucalyptus oil in their workspace or home can help them stay attentive and energized. I have also used it for these reasons.

5. Dental Health

What a versatile plant. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, Eucalyptus can help combat bad breath and promote oral health. Say goodbye to the need for gum and mints. I have added this to my DIY mouthwash and have felt and seen a better clean.

6. Insect Repellent

Finding a nontoxic way to keep pests away can feel tiresome. A combination of eucalyptus with other plants can be used not only for their smell and, benefit giving, but also their ability to keep pesky mosquitoes away when outdoors. You may need to reapply it. I found by adding this to my lotion for my family kept us insect free.

Final Thoughts

The Eucalyptus tree is truly a gift from nature and on my list of favorites and always in the house. There are of course many more uses for this wonderful plant, other than giving some style to the scenery. I encourage you to do more of an in depth dive to see how you can work with eucalyptus. Whether you’re using the leaves in herbal remedies or enjoying the aromatic benefits of the essential oil, Eucalyptus is a must-have in every wellness enthusiast’s arsenal. You may see, feel, or experience a positive difference in yourself after using like I have.

Jasmine Hutchinson PHN, BSN, RN

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DISCLAIMER…THIS BLOG IS INTENDED SOLELY TO SERVE AS A RESOURCE TO HEALTH INFORMATION AND TO PROVIDE YOU WITH BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE SYMPTOMS, CAUTIONS, SAFETY CONCERNS, NATURAL REMEDIES, DIY RECIPES, AND NUTRITIONAL CONCERNS RELATED TO ALL ASPECTS OF HEALTH. THIS BLOG DOES NOT PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE EXPLANATION OF ALL ASPECTS OF ANY HEALTH CONDITION OR CONCERN OR EVEN THOSE ASPECTS THAT ARE DISCUSSED IN THIS BLOG. THIS BLOG IS NOT INTENDED TO BE–AND YOU SHOULD NOT USE IT AS–A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR HEALTH CARE GIVEN BY A LICENSED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. BE SURE TO SEE A LICENSED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER TO HELP ENSURE YOUR HEALTH AND THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF YOUR FAMILY.