Eucalyptus Essential Oil Health Benefits

Eucalyptus comes from tall evergreen trees with yellowish flowers. According to "The Aromatherapy Bible" by Gill Farrer-Halls, there are over 600 types of eucalyptus. Eucalyptus is frequently used in the form of an essential oil that is believed to have an array medicinal uses. Many individuals who specialize in aromatherapy and holistic health have attributed a variety of health benefits to the use of this popular essential oil.

Relief of Respiratory Problems

Eucalyptus is commonly used to reduce respiratory ailments caused by cold and flu. When it is inhaled, the strong natural aroma of eucalyptus is effective for clearing the sinuses. According to "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing," by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., adding five drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a warm bath will aid in clearing congestion. You can also create a therapeutic steam by adding six drops of the oil to one cup of boiling water. The steam can then be inhaled to open the sinuses and soothe cold and flu symptoms. For a quick, on-the-go decongestant, the aroma of the oil can be inhaled directly from the bottle. You can also use a few drops of oil in an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer. Check the packaging or directions for your vaporizer to make sure that aromatherapy oils can be added.

Topical Benefits

Eucalyptus oil can be rubbed onto the skin to treat joint pain and various skin conditions. According to "The Aromatherapy Bible," eucalyptus oil can be applied to the skin to repel insects and to treat stings and bug bites. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that eucalyptus oil can also be used to treat wounds and sores. Rub eucalyptus oil or a massage oil or cream made from the oil directly onto the skin to alleviate joint pain caused by arthritis. Apply it directly to the forehead to relieve headache pain.

Antiseptic Properties

According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, eucalyptus possesses antiseptic abilities and can be used to kill bacteria. For example, eucalyptus oil can be used in a mouthwash to kill bacteria in the mouth and fight bad breath. Eucalyptus oil is also used in soaps, household cleaners and detergents. Because of its antiseptic properties, eucalyptus oil is effective as a deodorizer to freshen the air and kill airborne germs and bacteria.