The Amazing Eucalyptus
The Amazing Eucalyptus…
Eucalyptus is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to Australia. The oil that comes from the eucalyptus tree is used as an antiseptic, a perfume, as an ingredient in cosmetics, as a flavoring, in dental preparations, and in industrial solvents. Chinese, Indian Ayurvedic, Greek, and other European styles of medicine have incorporated it into the treatment of a range of conditions for thousands of years.
There are hundreds of varieties of eucalyptus that produce an essential oil. However, the most common form of the oil used in aromatherapy is eucalyptus globulus, distilled in Australia from the beloved gum tree. Other widely used forms that are commonly distilled for their essence include the narrow leaved eucalyptus (eucalyptus radiate), used for viral infections, and lemon-scented eucalyptus (eucalyptus citriadora), a cooling, antirheumatic oil.
Eucalyptus has a very distinguishable and recognizable smell. Whether you have experienced its fresh, uplifting aroma passing by an abundant tree, being diffused or in the treatment room- it is always a pleasant experience. Eucalyptus is used as an ingredient in many products, such as medications, body care, skin care and in ointments.
Benefits of Eucalyptus
Colds and Nasal Congestion
Eucalyptus features in a range of preparations to relieve symptoms of the common cold such as cough lozenges and inhalants. Its antibacterial, antiviral action makes it useful in treating the common cold and easing nasal congestion, sinusitis, laryngitis, chronic bronchitis and asthma. Herbal remedies recommend using fresh leaves in a gargle to relieve a sore throat, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Also, eucalyptus oil vapor appears to act as a decongestant when inhaled. It is a popular home remedy for colds and bronchitis. It may act as an expectorant for loosening phlegm and easing congestion. A number of cough medications include eucalyptus oil, including Vicks VapoRub. As a major expectorant, decongestant and anti-catarrhal oil, eucalyptus targets the respiratory system.
Dental Health
The antibacterial and antimicrobial potential of eucalyptus has been harnessed for use in some mouthwash and dental preparations. In promoting dental health, eucalyptus appears to be active in fighting bacteria that cause tooth decay and periodontitis.
Cuts and Wounds
The Australian aborigines used eucalyptus leaves to treat wounds and prevent infection. Today the diluted oil may still be used on the skin to fight inflammation and promote healing. Creams or ointments that contain eucalyptus oil may be used on minor burns or other injuries.
Bug Repellent
Eucalyptus is an also effective insect repellent and insecticide. In 1948, the United States officially registered eucalyptus oil as an insecticide and miticide, for killing mites and ticks. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is recommended as an insect repellant because its effective at keeping mosquitoes away.
Pain Reliever
Eucalyptus extract may act as a pain reliever, and research indicates that the oil may have analgesic properties. Over the counter creams (methyl salicylate topical) are used to treat muscle and joint pain due to strains and sprains, arthritis, bruising, and backache. The stimulating and decongesting qualities of the essential oil make it further indicated for rheumatic pain. Eucalyptus is also anti-inflammatory, anti-neuralgic and analgesic, making it ideal for massage treatments to relieve rheumatic pain and muscular aches and pains.
As a pain reliever, it can be used for headaches combined with other essential oils. Eucalyptus oil can be mixed with geranium, lemongrass, peppermint, tea tree and lavender. Other conditions that eucalyptus may help with include stimulating immune system, arthritis, a blocked nose, ulcers, cold sores, bladder diseases, diabetes, fever and flu.
Eucalyptus in the Treatment Room
One of the main benefits associated with eucalyptus essential oil in the treatment room is its ability to keep the skin healthy and balanced. If you have clients with combination skin, then eucalyptus oil will definitely be worthwhile to use in treatments. It will treat the skin without leaving it too oily or too dry due to the antibacterial properties found in eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil can clean the skin and open pores, neutralizing any bacteria and normalize congestion that could cause future skin problems. Eucalyptus oil has been studied to fight acne and control excess skin oiliness.
If you have redness from acne or other types of skin irritation, eucalyptus is a good anti-inflammatory that will help calm redness. Eucalyptus has also been used to treat conditions like dermatitis and eczema. This ingredient is an antioxidant and very stimulating, which makes it a valuable addition to any anti-aging routine. It will exfoliate while brightening the skin and relaxes facial tension.
Eucalyptus globulus extract has also been found to have an influence on antioxidant activity and could help to defend against oxidative stress from pollution, UV or blue light. Eucalyptus has a clean fresh scent that relaxes muscles, reduces redness leaving the skin exfoliated and soft. Using eucalyptus as one of your ingredients in the treatment room can keep the skin balanced, nourished, and calm while still promoting a radiant and ageless appearance.
Take Precaution with Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus products can generally be used safely on the skin, as long as the oil is diluted. It should not be applied directly onto the skin until it is diluted with a carrier oil, such as grapeseed, caledula or jojoba oil.
Eucalyptus can produce irritation and a burning sensation and should not be used too close to the eyes. It is important to do an allergy test before using eucalyptus because it is highly allergenic. Allergies can develop over time. If you have used eucalyptus oil in the past and now seem to be having an allergic reaction to it, discontinue use. Children are more sensitive to essential oils, so care should be taken, and use should be avoided during pregnancy.
It is not safe to take eucalyptus oil orally because it is poisonous. Side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset. Signs of eucalyptus poisoning include dizziness, feelings of suffocation, and small pupils. It is important to note that eucalyptus may interact with other medications and can impact the liver.
References:
https://apsaraskincare.com/blog/3-eucalyptus-home-remedies-for-combination-skin.aspx
https://www.dermascope.com/ingredients/essence-eucalyptus
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266580.php
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266580.php