Eucalyptus oil is prized by aromatherapists for its antiseptic and pain-relieving properties. It has been used for centuries by the Australian Aborigines to heal wounds and treat infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Today, it is commonly used to relieve sore and aching muscles, as an expectorant to relieve congestion and in mouthwashes to treat bad breath.
Pain Relief
Aromatherapists use eucalyptus oil to treat sore, aching and tired muscles. It is particularly useful when mixed with a carrier oil like almond or grapeseed and applied directly to the affected area in a compress. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that the oil is used to treat arthritis, and OrganicFacts.net states that eucalyptus oil contains the compound eucalyptol, which makes it a common ingredient in many over-the-counter pain-relieving creams and ointments.
Expectorant
Eucalyptus oil is generally recommended for treating respiratory problems like bronchitis, coughs and the common cold. It is found in lozenges used to soothe sore throats, and can be inhaled in a steam vaporizer to help loosen phlegm and break up congestion in the lungs or chest. Some over-the-counter rubs and ointments contain eucalyptus oil, and can be applied directly to the chest and nose to help relieve congestion. Many aromatherapists recommend inhaling the vapors directly, either in a vaporizer or from a cloth, to ease bronchitis and flu symptoms.
Oral Hygiene
Eucalyptus oil contains cineole, an antiseptic substance that kills the bacteria that cause bad breath, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, so eucalyptus is frequently used in mouthwashes and toothpastes. Additionally, the OrganicFacts.net states that eucalyptus oil is effective in fighting gingivitis, plaque and cavities. Care should be taken not to swallow products containing eucalyptus oil, especially with homemade mouthwashes, and children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with asthma, kidney, liver or bile duct disease should avoid products containing eucalyptus.
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