Discover 4 Great Benefits of Eucalyptus
Did You Know?
Eucalyptus is a tree native to Australia and Tasmania from a genus of over 600 species. It is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of over 300 feet with long leathery leaves, flowers, and fruit. The leaves are dried, crushed, and distilled to extract the oil which then is used in common household and medicinal products like cough medicine, candles, toothpaste, cough syrups, mouthwashes, and joint pain remedies. Koalas love eating eucalyptus leaves and we can also enjoy 4 great health benefits the leaves possess. Continue reading to discover more
4 Benefits of Eucalyptus
1. May treat Dry Skin
Eucalyptus has been studied as an effective remedy for dry skin because it stimulates ceramides which are a major part of the lipid layers in your skin that create a barrier for hydration. However, when there is a disruption in the ceramide content, skin disorders are more likely to occur. One study found that a compound in eucalyptus extract named macrocarpal A was capable of ceramide synthesis and resulted in a significant increase in hydration and barrier function for subjects with dry skin. Another study followed 34 subjects with dry scalp conditions like atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis in a 4-week daily treatment with a lotion containing eucalyptus extract. The researchers found that participants have improved dryness, itchiness, and quality of life after treatment.
2. May reduce Cold Symptoms
Eucalyptus relieves and reduces cold symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory benefits. One study found an isolated compound called cineole, specifically found in a species of eucalyptus named eucalyptus globulus. Researchers have found this compound to be antispasmodic and mucolytic for respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. Cineole can be an inflammation mediator and inhibit the overproduction of mucus which usually restricts the airway. Therefore, eucalyptus-based products can be used for bronchitis, sinusitis, and congestion.
3. May promote Relaxation
The anxiolytic and relaxation effect of eucalyptus is also related to Cineole. In one study, researchers investigated the effect of cineole compared to other compounds in essential oils in a randomized trial of 62 patients with anxiety. The researchers instructed participants to inhale almond oil with drops of cineole and other compounds and discovered cineole’s superiority in reducing anxiety. Furthermore, another study also found that eucalyptus oil was effective in reducing blood pressure, pain, and inflammation in a group of participants who had a total knee replacement.
4. Can be used as Bug Repellent
Lemon Eucalyptus, a species of the eucalyptus tree, is used as a bug repellent in plant-based bug sprays. One study found that lemon eucalyptus-based sprays repelled one species of mosquitos (An. Stephensi) for up to 8 hours . One factor responsible for repellent properties is a compound in the oil called PMD (para-menthane 3, 8 diol) which allows the repellent to last longer on the skin. Another factor responsible is the citronella, which makes up 85% of the lemon eucalyptus oil and studies support its repellent ability. One study compared the efficacy of citronella candles, incense, and plain candles in preventing insect bites and proved that subjects who remained near citronella candles had 42% fewer mosquito bites (Aedes species).
What Should You Do About It?
First, talk to your doctor. Especially if you have a medical history or take certain medications. Eucalyptus oil should NEVER be taken orally because it is toxic. It should also be used with caution because it may irritate the skin if used undiluted. Use the benefits of eucalyptus topically with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba or over-the-counter creams that have been formulated accordingly. Eucalyptus can also interact with your liver and affect the metabolism of a variety of medications. One study found that topical use of eucalyptus affected the absorption of a medication used to treat cancer.
How To Make It SMART
SHORT- Consider using eucalyptus in your lifestyle, whether as aromatherapy, tea, whole leaves, as a bug repellent or topically for dry skin
MEASURABLE- This will depend on what you are using eucalyptus for. For example, does your skin feel more moisturized, do you feel more relaxed after using eucalyptus oil for aromatherapy, and are you breathing better (if you have a cold)? do you have fewer bug bites when you use a repellent with eucalyptus or a citronella candle?
ATTAINABLE- Is this something you want to implement consistently? Eucalyptus can either be used consistently or as needed. You can use it daily before sleep for relaxation and dry skin or use it as needed when you have a cold or stuffed nose. You can be flexible in how you want to use it
REASONABLE- Is it possible to implement? Since eucalyptus can be used for multiple reasons, be flexible in how you want to use it. Some healthy choices can easily be daily habits and others can be used as needed. Either way, it is important to know so you can be empowered to make the choice that can renew you
TIMELY- Commit to using eucalyptus for 30-60 days. Assess whether it affects you positively, negatively, or not at all.
Remember, choosing health is a lifelong journey and commitment, not a quick fix
As always,
Love yourself in health, one day at a time
