Eucalyptus

 

Botanical name: Eucalyptus globulus

Parts used: fresh/dried leaves

Energetics: warming, cooling

Taste: cooling, fresh leafy mint

Actions: diaphoretic, disinfectant, anitmalarial, antiseptic, analgesic, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, expectorant, and antioxidant properties

Constituents: eucalypto, alpha-pinene, alpha terpineol, limonene

Planet: Venus/Moon

Element: water, air

Medicinal Preparations:

Tincture: Fresh 1:3 Dry 1:5 (alcohol 70% or 140-proof)

Drops: 10-60  Times a day: up to 3x

Tea: hot or cold infusion

Ounces: 8-12oz  Times a day: up to 3-4x

Description:

Eucalyptus originates from the Eucalyptus Tree native to Australia, also known as the "Tasmanian Blue Gum". There are many species of Eucalyptus, some are the size of an ornamental shrub and some grow to be giant trees. The kind most often used in medicine is the Tasmanian blue gum or Australian fever tree. 

Medicinal uses:

Eucalyptus was traditionally used as an antiseptic to kill germs, heal wounds and fungal infections. It has natural antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It not only kills bacteria and protozoans, but also fungi and viruses such as mold and mildew. 

In Ayurveda Eucalyptus is often used for its expectorant and topical applications to help relieve headaches due to sinus congestion.  Highly effective for helping relieve respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD, pneumonia and even tuberculosis. Eucalyptus is a strong expectorant and helpful in receiving congestion and loosening phlegm.

Often used to reduce fevers. Its antibacterial properties help fight viruses and fungal infections. Eucalyptus can also help reduce inflammation, and is commonly used in ointments to help relieve muscle and joint pain. And even used as a mouthwash. 

Beauty, Skincare and Other:

Mix Eucalyptus with clove and tea tree oil to cleanse the air and to help maintain a mold free home. Or use in soaps, detergents, toilet cleaner, mop water, etc. Eucalyptus is also an effective odor remover. Use a wet rag soaked in Eucalyptus oil-infused water, throw it in with your wash and then hang to dry outside in the sun to prevent odors. Or put a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil into your vacuum or clothes dyer filters to freshen them up.  

Add eucalyptus to your body cleanser to help remove grease and can also help rejuvenate sore hands and feet. 

Eucalyptus is also a natural remedy for lice, instead of chemical treatments. Add a few drops of Eucalptus essential oil into some Neem oil, as this oil itself can kill lice as well. Store the solution in an airtight container. Apply to wet hair, work from the scalp to the ends, let sit for 30-60 minutes, then use head lice comb to comb through the hair. Rinse the comb in a bowl of water with a few drops of essential oils added. Then shampoo/conditioner as normal, repeat every 2-3 days until you no longer see any signs of lice or eggs. 

Contraindications: 

 DO NOT use if pregnant/nursing. DO NOT put Eucalyptus oil, salve, or chest rub on face or nose of a child under 2 yrs old. People with asthma, seizures, liver disease, kidney disease, or low blood pressure should not use without first talking to their doctors. 

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent diseases. Please check with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition before using or consuming any herbal products. Keep out of reach from children and pets. I am not a doctor and therefore I can not give medical advice.