Eucalyptus leaves are used to make eucalyptus oil, commonly used in chest rubs to alleviate common cold symptoms such as sinus congestion. According to the University of Maryland's Medical Clinic, some studies report that people who used eucalyptus oil derived from eucalyptus leaves had fewer symptoms associated with sinusitis. Eucalyptus leaves, in all forms, have not been evaluated by the FDA and should be used under the supervision of a medical doctor.
Sinus Congestion
Sinus congestion is the result of inflammation in the sinus cavity that results in swelling, leading to sinus pressure pain. The most usual causes of nasal congestion are the common cold, allergies, the flu and nasal abnormalities, according to MedlinePlus. Talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis of the cause of your nasal congestion. Common symptoms include sinus pressure, headaches, post-nasal drip, facial tenderness and bad breath.
Traditional Treatment
Sinus congestion is traditionally treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. Home remedies include hot steam, running a humidifier, sleeping with your head elevated, and saline spray and rinses, according to MedlinePlus. Over-the-counter medications used to treat sinus congestion are decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers. Talk with your doctor before using any over-the-counter medication.
Eucalyptus for Congestion
Studies have shown that eucalyptus has strong anti-bacterial properties, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. If nasal congestion is caused by a bacterial infection, eucalyptus may help the body fight off the infection. The oil of eucalyptus leaves has been used in chest rubs, and helps to thin mucus. As the mucus thins, it can be expelled from the body more effectively. One study found that people who took 200mg of eucalyptus oil supplements three times daily had significantly reduced symptoms of a sinus infection.
Warnings
Drugs.com warns that the use of eucalyptus leaf oil in the form of a chest rub should not be used on wounds or damaged skin, by mouth, in the nostrils or with tight bandages. If you suffer from inflammation of the kidneys or digestive tract, do not use. People with bile duct inflammation, low or high blood pressure, liver disease or pregnant women should not use eucalyptus, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. If you've been diagnosed with asthma, talk with your doctor before using the herb: It could cause an asthma attack.
Dosing
Eucalyptus leaf can be used as a tea infusion to treat nasal congestion. Use about a half teaspoon per 8 ounces of hot water, three times a day. Steep the leaf for one to 15 minutes before drinking, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. Use 10 to 30 drops of eucalyptus leaf tincture daily for sinus congestion.
