12 Amazing Benefits & Uses Of Eucalyptus Oil

Have you ever heard about the Stringy Bark Tree, or the Bluegum or Fever tree?

Well, these are the several other nicknames given to the tree that provides the super ingredient for a potent Ayurvedic healing oil - Eucalyptus Essential oil.

There are many varieties of Eucalyptus. As many as 700 types of Eucalyptus grow as trees, and few of them even grow as shrubs. Despite this, the distinctive characteristics are quite similar across the diversification. The shared conventional trait is the medicinal and healing property possessed by the leaf of this plant. 

Eucalyptus leaves are well-known for their camphoraceous, pungent, crisp fragrance.

Based on the narration of an English folklore, it is said that once when an English settler accidentally hurt his finger with an ax, his father had instructed him to keep some of the Eucalyptus leaves wrapped against the wound. Later, when a surgeon checked the injury, he was entirely galvanized by the healing done, especially without the lurking of any infection.

Tales like these spread like wildfire, which initiated the emergence of extracting oil from the Eucalyptus plant, now known as Eucalyptus Essential Oil. 

What Is Eucalyptus Essential Oil?

Eucalyptus Essential Oil comes from the Eucalyptus tree, mainly found in Australia. This tree has oval leaves and blue-grey bark. Sometimes, the bark has resins on it, which is why it's also called the blue gum tree. The oil is now produced in many places like Europe, Brazil, India, China, and Greece.

The oil is mostly derived from a type of the tree called Eucalyptus globulus. Its leaves are steam distilled to extract the oil. The leaves can be fresh or partially dried.

The quality of the oil depends on where the tree grows – factors like the soil, sunlight, the type of the tree, and how much water it gets matter a lot.

When you buy Eucalyptus Essential Oil, check where it comes from and if it's pure to make sure it's good quality.

We recommend Kama Ayurveda Pure Eucalyptus Essential oil as it is cold-pressed from trees grown on the verdant slopes of the Nilgiri Hills in Southern India. Its woody and sweet aroma builds immunity and relieves muscle tension, among many other benefits. 

Components like α-Terpineol, Limonene, Aromadendrene, Piperitone, Citronellal, and Camphor present in Eucalyptus Essential oil provide immense benefits for skin, hair, and overall health. Let's look at these benefits of Eucalyptus oil in the next section.

What Are The Top Eucalyptus Oil Benefits?

In Ayurveda, Eucalyptus is known for its Vata pacifying properties as it has heating energy. It strengthens the overall metabolism, circulation, and immune system. It’s also a powerful antiseptic and analgesic that can be used to treat wounds, infections, and painful inflammation of the muscles that lead to muscle soreness.

In this section, we’ll be talking about the top benefits of Eucalyptus oil in detail.

• Relief from the symptoms of Cold, Sinus and Cough

Eucalyptus is a common ingredient found in cold and cough medications. It is majorly because researches are stating that Eucalyptus can attenuate mucus and dilate the bronchi and bronchioles present in the lungs. This is possible as it contains pinene, known to be a bronchi-dilator and also cineole, which aids in reducing inflammation and mucus build-up. Eucalyptus is also known to give relief to asthma-related symptoms. 

• Improving Bad Breath

Bad breath considerably reduces a person's ability to speak confidently, it would continuously bother an individual, and it would be quite a task to have general conversations. However, as this plant contains antibacterial properties, they would work against mouth odor by fighting germs. The presence of mouth odor could indicate an underlying cavity as well; hence it is always advisable to visit a dentist.

• Reduction In Pain
  
  

When the Eucalyptus essential oil is inhaled, its unique properties help in decreasing pain. The cineole and limonene present in the extracts of this oil are known pain-relievers. In the Aa study, people who underwent knee replacement surgery were advised to inhale this invigorating oil for about 30 minutes regularly. Following this, a reduction in the perception of pain was reported. However, more research is required to confirm this benefit.

• Healing Of Insect Bites

Eucalyptus oil produces a cooling effect when topically applied. It is known to diminish pain as well as inflammation. However, one should note that essential oils should not be applied without diluting as they are potent and can cause adverse skin reactions.

• Removal of Dandruff
  
  

The antifungal and antiseptic properties present in Eucalyptus oil works against the formation of dandruff. The yeast-like fungus called Malassezia is the usual cause of dandruff. This oil, along with a suitable carrier oil, could efficiently keep dandruff formation and related issues like itchiness at bay.

Shop Kama Ayurveda Eucalyptus Pure Essential Oil

• Relieves Sore Muscles
  
  

The citronellol present in this Eucalyptus essential oil is known to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that work against any muscle cramps or sore muscles by slackening and relaxing them.

• Promotes Hair Growth
  
  

As Eucalyptus has properties that aid in fighting against dandruff, promoting blood circulation, and eliminating any inflammation or fungal invasion on the scalp, it banks the credibility of promoting significant hair growth. Its soothing and calming effects even reduce stress, which is often stated as one of the common causes of hair loss. It provides the nourishment and constituents needed for healthy hair growth. 

• Relieves Sunburns
  
  

Sunburns could be quite painful. However, as previously mentioned, the pain-relieving properties, coupled with the soothing composition of this oil, could tremendously bring relief to sunburns and even redness. Also, the antibacterial components would prevent the onset of any infection.

• Repels Insects
  
  

The insect repellents available in the market are often filled with harmful chemicals that may keep insects away but at the cost of our health. The scent of this oil keeps away bugs, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and even rodents. Studies that state the dermal application of this oil have been useful in preventing mosquito bites for almost 2hours, with 97% claimed success. It is said that this oil is capable of masking the natural mosquito-alluring scent with the help of the compound called PMD.

• Natural Stress Buster

Many essential oils are stated to be a wonderful stress reliever. Eucalyptus oil has the fresh aroma of menthol that invigorates the senses and eliminates sluggishness and mental fatigue. It also has calming effects.

Due to these properties, it is also seen as a common ingredient used in aromatherapy and even in spas. There are studies even claiming its ability to reduce pre-surgery anxiety visible in patients, validating the use of this oil as a stress buster. 

• Disinfection of Wounds
  
  

As stated in the short English folklore illustrated at the beginning of the article, this ingredient has the credibility of disinfecting and initiating the healing process of wounds for ages. When using the oil, it is essential to dilute it well before disinfecting. Minor injuries, scrapes, or bruises would benefit from this oil and even keep any attack of infections away as it contains antibacterial and anti-microbial components.

• Dental care

The eucalyptol present in the Eucalyptus is known to improve dental health considerably. The enhanced contents of ethanol and marcocarpal C-kind of polyphenol are known to reduce the bacteria production that could give rise to cavities and diseases of the gingiva/gums.

Some studies have been conducted that confirm these claims as the participants found a substantial decrease in the build-up of plaque, gingival inflammation, and bleeding on chewing gum having eucalyptus based extracts.

Also, eucalyptol is a common ingredient found in mouth-washes. It is, however, recommended to check with your dentist before utilizing this ingredient.

How to Use Eucalyptus Oil For Skin, Hair And Aromatherapy?

First and foremost, it is of utmost importance to note that Eucalyptus oil should not be used directly for a dermal application unless mentioned in the product's usage instruction. Also, oral consumption of this product is not at all safe and discouraged. It could be lethal for the body as it could result in dizziness, ataxia, nausea, and diarrhea.

The Eucalyptus essential oil should always be used in the diluted form irrespective of its use. One could use a carrier oil or any other means to dilute it; to understand more about it, keep reading ahead.

For Sunburns

Mix 2-4 drops of eucalyptus oil to one teaspoon of clear, pure aloe-vera gel. Next, transfer it into a two-ounce spray bottle that is filled with purified water. One could spray it on the area of concern or also use it to cool oneself after a hot summer day.

For Insect bites and as Insect Repellent

Soothing insect bites with the help of Eucalyptus oil is quite simple. Simply dilute 1-2 drops of the Eucalyptus oil to 1 tsp of any carrier oil of your choice & apply it topically.

One could even drop a few drops of this mixture of 1-2 drops of Eucalyptus oil with 1 tsp of any carrier oil onto a cotton ball and then dab it around your clothes like under the collar or sleeves of the shirt, or around the edges of your trousers to repel insects.

For Bruises or Wounds

Ever cut your finger and skipped the disinfecting part only to find yourself staring at an infection a few days later? Well, next time, even for a minor bruise or a deep wound, use your home-made antiseptic wash.

All one needs to do to prepare it is - Add a few drops (around 8 to 10) of Eucalyptus Oil to two water cups. Mix it well and store it in a spray bottle. On getting a cut to disinfect the wound with this solution and a clean damp cloth, or one could even use fresh cotton balls.

For Joint Pain

Mix one or two drops of the Eucalyptus oil along with a carrier oil like Coconut oil or Argan oil. Rub this solution thoroughly on the painful areas in a circular motion. Its anti-inflammatory properties will aid in eliminating the pain.

For Moisturizing and Protecting Skin:

Enhance your moisturizer by adding a few drops of Eucalyptus oil. This can help increase the skin's moisture retention and strengthen the skin barrier, especially beneficial for dry skin conditions.

To Reduce Inflammation and Acne:

Dilute Eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and apply to areas with redness or acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the skin and reduce acne-related symptoms.

What Are Eucalyptus Oil Benefits For Skin?

Purifying and Cleansing Properties:

Eucalyptus oil is known for its ability to purify and cleanse the skin, helping to remove impurities and improve overall skin health.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:

The oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and symptoms related to acne, soothing skin irritations.

Enhancing Skin's Ceramide Content:

Ceramides are crucial for skin health, acting as a barrier to retain moisture and protect against environmental damage. They are essential for preventing dryness and irritation. Eucalyptus oil can boost the skin's ceramide levels, which are vital fatty acids responsible for maintaining the skin's barrier and preserving moisture.

Addressing Dry Skin Conditions:

Low levels of ceramides can lead to dry skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other related issues. Eucalyptus oil helps to maintain ceramide levels, alleviating these conditions.

Moisture Retention:

The oil is effective in retaining the skin's moisture, preventing dryness and keeping the skin hydrated.

Protection Against UV Damage:

Eucalyptus oil can mitigate the harmful effects of UV rays, which cause the breakdown of elastin and collagen, leading to premature aging.

Treatment for Sunburns: 

Due to its protective properties against UV damage, Eucalyptus oil is also beneficial in treating and soothing sunburns.

Shop Kama Ayurveda Eucalyptus Pure Essential Oil

• Eucalyptus Oil As A Disinfectant

When utilized as a disinfectant air spray, Eucalyptus oil is a powerful natural air cleanser. It contains anti-microbial properties which play a vital role in abolishing viruses and bacteria present in the atmosphere and while at the same time freshening the air.

Quite commonly, body odors are confined in the shoes and sports equipment; this oil can be used as an effective spray to eliminate them when diluted with water. Along with a few other essential oils and water, the end combination is stated to work out as an effective surface cleaner.

What Are Eucalyptus Oil Benefits For Hair?

Ceramide's Role in Hair Health:

Ceramide in Eucalyptus Oil plays a significant role in improving scalp and hair conditions, as evidenced by studies. A study involving 34 individuals using products with Eucalyptus extracts and synthetic ceramide showed notable improvements in scalp health.

Reduction of Scalp Issues:

Participants in the study on Eucalyptus oil experienced a considerable decrease in scalp itchiness, dryness, redness, and dandruff after using Eucalyptus oil-based products.

Enhancing Hair Luster:

Eucalyptus oil increases the moisture content in hair, enhancing its natural shine and making it appear glossier.

Herbicidal and Antifungal Properties:

Eucalyptus oil's herbicidal and antifungal qualities are beneficial for hair growth and scalp nourishment.

Multiple Benefits for Hair and Scalp:

The oil is effective in stimulating hair growth, eliminating lice, and reducing scalp itchiness.

Menthol Component for Cooling Relief:

Menthol, a component of Eucalyptus oil, provides a cooling sensation and relief from scalp itchiness.

Stimulating Blood Circulation:

Massaging Eucalyptus oil into the scalp can enhance blood circulation, promoting significant hair growth.

What Are Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus Oil?

Previously, Eucalyptus oil was widely used at hospitals in England to clean urinary catheters. Presently, the Siberian research conducted in 2016 gives back-up to this use due to the confirmatory presence of anti-microbial properties. 

A positive correlation was also concluded in the ability to procure new treatment by the combination of Eucalyptus oil with prevailing antibiotics. This finding suggests a potential reduction in the reliance on antibiotics.

Here are top medicinal benefits and uses of this oil - 

Antibacterial and Respiratory Benefits:

The oil's antibacterial properties are believed to be effective against respiratory tract disorders, though further research is needed to fully substantiate these claims.

Relief for Cold and Flu Symptoms:

Eucalyptus oil, especially its leaves, is a well-known ingredient in remedies for flu symptoms. Inhalation of its vapors, containing compounds like piperitone and camphor, can significantly alleviate congestion in cold and bronchitis cases.

Potential in Lowering Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar:

The oil has been linked to treatments aimed at reducing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, although the extent of its effectiveness requires more research.

Pain Relief and Wound Healing: 

Eucalyptus oil is also recognized for its ability to relieve muscle and joint pain and aid in the healing of minor wounds.

Combats Mental Fatigue: 

The distinctive aroma of Eucalyptus oil is effective in reducing mental fatigue and sluggishness. It enhances blood flow to the brain, providing instant relaxation and a sense of rejuvenation. 

Stress Relief and Anti-Anxiety Benefits:

Eucalyptus oil, particularly due to its eucalyptol content, is believed to have anti-anxiety and calming properties. This makes it beneficial for alleviating symptoms caused by a stressful lifestyle, promoting relaxation and mental well-being.

Can Eucalyptus Oil Be Used As A Disinfectant?

Eucalyptus oil is a powerful natural air cleanser. It contains anti-microbial properties which play a vital role in abolishing viruses and bacteria present in the atmosphere and while at the same time freshening the air.

Quite commonly, body odors are confined in the shoes and sports equipment; this oil can be used as an effective spray to eliminate them when diluted with water. Along with a few other essential oils and water, the end combination is stated to work out as an effective surface cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Now, as we have understood the benefits of this excellent essential oil, let us address some of the most common questions that people have about Eucalyptus oil.

Also read - Essential Oils 101 - How To Find The Best Ones For You?

Should I use Eucalyptus Oil For Acne?

Eucalyptus oil has the property of reducing excess sebum formation, which could work against acne formation. However, further research is required to state its use against acne affirmatively.

Is Eucalyptus Oil Safe For Dogs?

Eucalyptus oil application is strongly discouraged for dogs. It is not safe and could harm the pet adversely.

Does Eucalyptus Oil Help With Sinus?

Yes, it contains a compound known as cineole that aids in reducing inflammation and mucus build-up.

Is Eucalyptus Oil Safe During Pregnancy?

No, it is not recommended to use this essential oil during pregnancy. Even though mixed results state its safety during pregnancy, it is advisable not to undertake any risks for the health of the mother and the baby.

Is Eucalyptus oil safe for babies to breathe?

It is not advisable for infants under two to use this oil in any form. Kindly check with your pediatrician if the need arises to utilize this oil for children of any age group.

Should I add Eucalyptus oil in a bath?

One can use this oil in the bath by spraying its diluted form around in the air but not directly in the water. As essential oils are not water-soluble they form a film and lie floating on the water surface. While splashing that, along with water, your skin is getting exposed directly to the oil, and the sensation could be quite stingy and would negatively affect your skin.

Is Eucalyptus oil suitable for beards?

Yes, it could be used in grooming beard hair as well. But be cautious about following the correct steps and methods. Always dilute the oil before its use.

Is Eucalyptus oil suitable for  sauna?

Yes, this oil could be used for a sauna as it is lauded for its woodsy fragrance.

Lastly, we recommend medical and professional advice before implementing Eucalyptus essential oil for your needs. It is better to be aware and safe rather than facing untoward results.

References

1. Antibacterial effects of Eucalyptus Oil
2. New Perspectives On Anti-Acne Plant Drugs
3. Essential Oils Used In Aromatherapy - A systematic review
4. Chemical composition and antibacterial activities of seven Eucalyptus species