Eucalyptus is famous for its unique fragrance and its multiple benefits as a medicinal herb and in some cases as an insect repellent. The
eucalyptus oil is prepared from the leaves. The
Eucalyptus plant is known to be a native of Australia and Tasmania but often these days, the herb is cultivated in the Mediterranean and sub tropical regions for commercial reasons. There are different grades of the oil and depending on the quality, the effectiveness of it also varies.
Plant description:
The size can vary from a few feet to giant trees depending on the variety. Some are ornamental shrubs which remain small in size. The most commonly used variety for making oil is the “Australian fever” which can grow up to a height of 230 feet with leaves which are as long as twelve inches.
Medicinal properties:
Treatment on infections:
Eucalyptus oil is used in many topical ointments to treat infections that are caused due to bacteria or fungus. It contains an ingredient known as
eucalyptus which is antiseptic in nature. It is perhaps for this reason that eucalyptus was used to clean urine catheters in hospitals.
Eucalyptus also contains anti oxidants which prevent the onset of infections.
Treatment of cold and flu:
Eucalyptus has active ingredients which are believed to dilute the phlegm and ease the respiratory tract thus enabling the patient to breathe more easily in case of a congested chest due to cold. Inhalation of
eucalyptus oil and hot water mixture provides instant relief to headache and sinusitis. Gargling with a mixture of water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil eases throat infections and cures sore throat. Due to its pungent and unique smell,
eucalyptus may also be recommended for reviving patients who have fainted.
Diabetes:
Though research is still on to prove the usefulness of
eucalyptus in treating diabetes, there is a possibility of using this herb as an adjunctive treatment for curing diabetes.
Dosage:
Children:
Avoid oral consumption of
eucalyptus oil or any of its products in case the child is below six years of age. Chest rubs ointments and any form of external application can be followed.
Adults:
Adults can consume one to two grams or up to 3 ml of tincture twice a day in tea or in tonic.
Precautions:
• The herb must be taken under medical supervision only as it may block the effectiveness of other herbs in case you are consuming both at the same time.
• Individuals with liver disorders, inflammation of the kidneys and heart problems are advised to avoid the use of eucalyptus products.
