Eucalyptus oil has many uses and benefits. It is a popular insect repellent, skin treatment, and aromatherapy oil , is found in household cleaners and can be used for respiratory problems.
Avoid internal use
Don’t take it internally. If ingested it can cause severe toxic reactions leading to vomiting and nausea. High doses can cause internal bleeding, heart problems and even coma and death.
If you think someone has taken it then recognizing the early signs of eucalyptus oil poisoning is very important. You should seek medical advice immediately. You should keep it away from children and pets.
Even external use can cause unwanted side effects in some people and even inhaling it has caused epilepsy type attacks in some. You should use with caution the first time you use it.
Eucalyptus oil in mouthwash
Eucalyptus oil is a popular ingredient in many mouthwashes. If you swallow a small amount of eucalyptus oil mouthwash when you are swirling it round your mouth it is not likely to cause any issues. However you want to avoid it if possible and do not let children use it.
Not only is there a greater risk of your children swallowing the mouthwash but they are also affected by the toxins more. You shouldn’t let your kids use eucalyptus oil mouthwash unless it has been prescribed by a licensed health professional.
Similarly it is also found in some toothpastes and chewing gum for freshening up the mouth and removing plaque.
Clearing your airways
In the winter months if you have a blocked nose from the common cold of flu then inhaling eucalyptus can help. It is also beneficial for more serious conditions like COPD, asthma and bronchitis. Not only does it open up your airways but it boosts the immune system also.
Aromatherapy treatments for relaxation
Eucalyptus oil is used in many aromatherapy treatments. Adding eucalyptus oil to baths is very popular. Labored breathing, light-headiness, and drowsiness have been reported by some people after taking long, hot baths with eucalyptus oil.
A hot bath can sometimes cause drowsiness anyway but the eucalyptus may exacerbate this effect. If you’ve never used it before start with just a few drops of eucalyptus oil to see if you have any ill effects.
The calming properties of eucalyptus have been used to relax patients before surgery. If you have a stressful event coming up then smelling eucalyptus oil for a few minutes may well calm you.
Eucalyptus oil uses and benefits on skin
Another problem that can be caused by long and strong eucalyptus oil baths is skin irritation. This is in contrast to the fact that eucalyptus oil is often used as a treatment for many skin problems.
Eucalyptus oil is antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is often recommended for treating acne. The recommended dose is to dilute it 1 drop of oil to 3 drops of water. You then dab this on your acne pimples but avoiding any broken skin.
If your skin surface is already damaged by the acne, eczema or a burn then the eucalyptus may make it worse. It can cause rashes and a burning sensation.
You should always do a patch test and try the eucalyptus oil on an area of healthy skin before you apply it to an affected area.
Head lice treatment
It has also been used in combination with tea tree oil to get rid of head lice. Just a single treatment has proven to be effective.
Insect repellant
You can use it as a mosquito repellent and it can also be used on insect bites.
Household cleaning products
The antibacterial qualities are put to use in many household cleaning products. One study indicated it killed E. Coli bacteria on surfaces.
Keep out rats
You can discourage rats from invading your house. Just add around 15-20 drops to a spray bottle of water and spray the areas where you have the problem.
All in all the eucalyptus oil uses and benefits are many and widespread. It is certainly worth keeping in your medicine cupboard.
