Eucalyptus oil is found in a number of products that you can purchase over the counter at the grocery store or pharmacy. According to Drugs.com, you can find this oil in products like ointments, inhalers, diaper rash creams and mouthwashes. Although the oil has a number of positive effects, it can be toxic if swallowed in large amounts.
Decongestant
The National Institutes of Health point out that eucalyptus oil is commonly used as a decongestant. The fumes of the oil act as an expectorant for the upper respiratory tract, decreasing inflammation of this area and helping built-up mucus flow out of the body. The oil is worked into topical creams that are applied to the chest so the fumes can be inhaled and taken into the congested area. It's also an ingredient in cough drops and lozenges that you can find over the counter at your pharmacy.
Arthritis Pain Relief
The Mayo Clinic notes that eucalyptus oil can be used as a topical treatment for the pain associated with arthritis. For this use, it's known as a counterirritant. The oil is an active ingredient in creams like Icy Hot, which create the feeling of hot or cold on your skin. The sensation created by the oil distracts from the pain and provides temporary relief.
Insect Repellent
Eucalyptus oil is considered a biopesticide insect repellent, or one that is made from natural ingredients. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that using the oil as a repellent will sufficiently protect the skin from mosquito bites, and the diseases spread by those bites. According to the CDC, products that use eucalyptus as their active ingredient provide "reasonably long-lasting protection."
Headache Relief
A study conducted by the University of Kiel found that eucalyptus oil can help relieve the effects of headaches. The oil was applied to the forehead and temples of headache sufferers. The oil not only provided a soothing effect to the headache suffers, but it also increased mental performance, and relaxed the tense muscles around the painful area.
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