Image Name 26 Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil; The All-In-One Essential Oil

26 Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil; The All-In-One Essential Oil

When I think of eucalyptus, I think of koala bears. It’s probably because I love animals a great deal but mostly because, in my world, that is a pretty iconic image- the koala bear and the eucalyptus leaf. As it turns out, these leaves are a huge part of their diet because, instinctively, they know the benefits.

The benefits of eucalyptus essential oil are abundant, as you will see as you keep reading. Once you finish learning about every item on this long list of eucalyptus essential oil benefits, you may start to wonder why you haven’t picked up a bottle of this powerful oil before.

Eucalyptus Oil Benefits

The benefits of eucalyptus oil that we are about to go over cover so many areas of your life and your health that I think it is rather fitting to title it an all-in-one. While all essential oils come with their own unique group of benefits, eucalyptus falls under the powerhouse category of essential oils.

Anti-inflammatory

Woman's naked back having sunburn in white background

Inflammation can be a simple thing or it can be serious, depending on what is causing the tissue in your body to be inflamed. Injuries ranging from a paper cut to major surgery can prompt your tissues to turn red, swell, and become irritated. When this happens, you need to take control of that infection/inflammation before it gets out of hand.

Of course, you can see your doctor and purchase some prescription medications or over the counter remedies, and they do work. Yet, when it comes to certain types of inflammation we can use a more natural way to accelerate the healing process. Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the strongest, organic remedy available.

A few drops of this oil mixed with a decent carrier substance should help bring down swelling and bring your infected area back to normal. Of course, you should always do a spot check first, and if your inflammation is serious, we always recommend you consult a healthcare professional before starting any home remedy.

Antispasmodic

Man's back having neck and back pain. Touching his neck and lower back in black background

There are all kinds of reasons why our muscles might spasm including fatigue, dehydration, and electrolyte abnormalities. Whatever the reason might be, spasms in our muscles can be slight and almost unnoticeable, but others can be strong and actually quite painful. It goes without saying that if you are experiencing long painful muscle spasms, then you should seek medical attention.

That said, if you are the type to feel a muscle spasm after a long workout or if you are not a fan of drinking water and feel your muscles have suffered for it, then this might be a remedy to try. First of all, you should make sure you are adequately hydrated.

As for the spasms, you can try by applying some eucalyptus oil to the area of your body where they occur. You should only do this after it has been appropriately diluted in a carrier oil. Topical treatment is probably the best choice for this type of issue.

Decongestant

Woman with short black hair, wearing a gray dress, signalling stop and blowing her nose with a tissue in gray background. A woman with sinus.

Congestion is extremely uncomfortable. It makes sleeping and breathing difficult, which doesn’t make for a good day, week, or life. There are a ton of reasons why one might get congested and that’s including allergies, the common cold, the flu, and a respiratory infection. Yet, as with other issues, while we want to find the culprit, mostly, we just want relief.

There are several over-the-counter decongestants as well as prescription strength medications that come in several applications like inhalers and nebulizers. When it comes to using eucalyptus to relieve your congestions, the best approach would most likely be inhalation.

Diffusing this oil when you are feeling congested is one approach. Other ways to get the power of eucalyptus oil into your lungs would be to put a few drops in the shower and breath in the steam or to put a drop or two in a pot of boiling water and just breathe it in with a towel over your head.

Whatever you decide to inhale this oil, be careful not to use too much. Essential oils are volatile compounds and come with risks of their own. Eucalyptus is a particularly forceful scent and should be used with caution only after thorough research on the part of the user.

Personal Deodorant

Man wearing a white sleeveless top, smiling on the mirror while applying deodorant on his armpit

Have you ever heard someone say, “I don’t think they wear deodorant.” In my case, this would be true. I don’t wear deodorant for many reasons.

I think the biggest of them all is I don’t like the fact that we soak all those chemicals into our bodies through the pores under our arms. While I am sure they are tested in labs and labeled safe for use, I prefer natural products when it comes to things I put in and on my body.

There are several recipes on the internet that can help you make your own deodorant, which is a wonderful way for you to incorporate this oil into your routine to help you relieve body odor. Just because I don’t use deodorant doesn’t mean I smell bad, it’s because I use oil blends that are natural deodorizers.

Disinfect Your Surfaces

A blonde woman with a blue ribbon, wearing a blue dress, blue apron, blue gloves, holding a towel and disinfectant spray.

Bacteria are everywhere. It’s on our countertops in the kitchen and on the bathroom fixtures. In fact, there are more bacteria in the world than any other organism on Earth. It is all over and we are literally outnumbered, which, when you seriously contemplate it, is rather scary. But that’s only if you are under the impression that all bacteria is bad for you.

The truth is that, just like people, there are bad bacteria and good bacteria. If you read about bacteria and virus history, you’d know that these organisms have been present for the longest time. Unfortunately, we don’t know the difference between good and bad bacteria.

There is no denying though, there are some bacteria that are harmful and cause us to become ill. Because of this, we love to make sure our surfaces are free of any harmful microorganisms. Bad bacteria lying on the kitchen counter can wind up in your family’s stomach.

A nice blend of eucalyptus and lavender diluted with some water and white vinegar could be put in a spray bottle and kept under your sink. You could use it in place of any chemical laden store bought countertop cleaner you might have used in the past

Antiseptic

hand applying with antiseptic alcohol

The difference between an antiseptic and a disinfectant is where they are used. While you disinfect your surfaces, antiseptics are typically used on the body. A good example of this is when a surgeon gets ready for a procedure. An antiseptic is used on the part of the patient’s body they are preparing for an incision, while the disinfectant is used to sterilize the operating table.

So, for you to make the most of this power, you could dilute a few drops of eucalyptus in jojoba oil and alcohol or witch hazel and store it in a glass amber bottle. Carry it in your purse or keep it in your desk drawer for when you need a quick hand sanitizer. You can also use a blend of this type to clean your face at night, in place of a toner.

No matter where you choose to apply a nice blend of diluted eucalyptus oil, it should kill any bacteria or germs getting ready to invade your healthy body.

Insecticidal

Mosquito repellent. Woman wearing a shorts jeans spraying insect repellent on skin outdoor in nature using spray bottle.

Unless you are an entomologist, odds are bugs aren’t your favorite thing in the world. Of course, this could be wrong and there are probably plenty of people who like insects but don’t study them for a living. For the rest of us, keeping bugs as far away as possible is our main goal when we decide to spend time outside.

Fortunately, repelling bugs is another great benefit of eucalyptus essential oil. There are a ton of DIY recipes for insect repellant that includes this strong oil. You can make a cream, spray, or topical treatment.

Other options are DIY candles for burning on your patio and simply diffusing eucalyptus wherever the bugs are an issue. When you are working with this extract for a DIY project, you can always mix some other oils to add to the scent. Great pairings for eucalyptus are thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and fellow insecticide- lavender.

Stimulant

Lady wearing a black and white stripes dress, holding red heart balloon, jumping in white and gray background

Have you ever felt like you couldn’t get moving when you needed to? When people in our society feel that way they look to beverages to get them through like a cup of coffee, an energy drink, or other over-the-counter pick me ups. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could just feel that boost you need after inhaling a pleasant scent?

Eucalyptus is said to have that power. And, it doesn’t just stimulate the mood. It can boost your circulatory system. There are several ways you can incorporate this scent into your day, especially when you know you might start slipping in energy.

Terracotta necklaces are popular, and you can apply eucalyptus oil to for a whiff every now and then. Another way to absorb the benefits is to put a few drops in your bath or on a towel that you wear in the steam room. Aromatherapy is a respected practice due to beneficial oils like eucalyptus, particularly for the aid it supplies via inhalation.

Eases coughing

Woman with gray scarf on her neck sitting down on the bed, coughing while touching her chest inside the room

There are tons of reasons why we develop a cough. From the obvious culprits like respiratory infections and seasonal triggers to more serious causes like asthma and chronic bronchitis, coughs can be the bane of our existence. When our coughs are out of control, it’s difficult to sleep, work, or relax. In the end, we just disturb our surroundings and feel miserable.

For relief that seems somewhat instantaneous, put a few drops of eucalyptus in a running warm shower and sit with the door closed. If you have access to a sauna, adding a few drops to the steaming water could create a relief room. Just a minute in there could do wonders.

Some of these uses are common, yet when it comes to aromatherapy, it’s easy to get inventive. For example, if you are suffering from a winter cough and have a beard, then dilute some eucalyptus in a moisturizing carrier substance like fractionated coconut oil. Massage a little into the hair on your face and put your scarf over it for your own private diffuser.

I should mention, if you choose to try the beard method, make sure you dilute it well since it will be so close to your mouth, nose, and eyes. Also, be sure to spot check the dilution on your skin before fully applying to your face.

*You might also like: Best Essential Oils For Cough Reviews.

Battles Cold and Flu

Sick woman blowing her nose with a tissue, sitting on the couch. Blurry medicines, cup, glass of water in front.

If you live in the United States, you have been hearing about nothing but flu shots while we move into Fall and head for Winter. But ailments that come with the common cold and the flu are not exclusive to any part of the country. All humans are susceptible.

Of course, there are so many over-the-counter remedies that we all cling to, but if you are trying to move your life into a more holistic or natural direction, then utilizing essential oils like eucalyptus are a great way to start, depending on the oil you choose.

This oil, extracted from those leaves held dear to koala bears everywhere, is antibacterial, antiseptic, and a disinfectant. When it comes to colds and the flu, all of these benefits apply and can help in the recovery process.

Diffuse this scent in your bedroom while you sleep. Rest and the eucalyptus oil floating around sounds like a great healing combination.

Provides Hair Nourishment

Young woman with mask on her hair against light background

Hair is an important extension of our bodies. Not only does it gives us protection, helps regulate the temperature of our body, or facilitate the evaporation of sweat, but it also serves as an extension of our sensory organ, the skin. That’s why maintaining its health is also a must.

When it comes to eucalyptus oil, the way you would use it would be on your head. We want our mane to be luxurious, but in some cases, our hair is thin, oily, or falling out. There are natural steps we can take to boosts our hair health. In fact, there are things right in your pantry that will help. Honey, olive oil, egg whites, and apple cider vinegar are a few.

When you add the power of eucalyptus essential oil to any of those household items, then you can expect to come out with a head of hair that’s the envy of the neighborhood. It needs to be mentioned that in the case of hair, you don’t want to use too much eucalyptus oil when creating recipes for shampoo or masks. Know your dilution percentages when using this oil.

It may even help with hair growth so it never hurts to try it out next time with your hair care regimen.

Relieves Scalp Itch

A blonde irritated young girl with eyeglasses, wearing a blue sweatshirt, pulling out her hair for itchy allergies or lice or scratching her head for nervous disagreement, grey background

Otherwise known as “scalp pruritus”, itchy scalp is rather universal and commonplace. That fact does not make it any less annoying. Some of the triggers for itchy scalp include seasons, hormone fluctuation, and stress.

Hair that is too oily or a scalp that is too dry can also prompt someone to experience an itchy scalp as well. It can also be a sign of something chronic like psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, or shingles. If you have chronic scalp pruritus, then contact a healthcare provider.

In the meantime, to relieve the itch, you can blend olive oil and eucalyptus and apply a little bit to your scalp after you wash it. This mixture can also be applied to dry hair as a mask before you shower. You want to let it set for a while so plan on applying at least ten minutes before you wash it.

You can also try to make a nice DIY shampoo that includes eucalyptus as an ingredient. Other ingredients you include are Castile soap, raw honey, distilled water, and aloe vera gel.

Combats Lice

Microscope lice, drawn in brown background

We all hear about lice, especially if you were ever a child in an American elementary or middle school. Those aren’t the only places where lice can wreak havoc though. Movie theaters are also a great place to pick up parasites that make a life on your scalp, creating colonies that can make even the strongest stomach queasy

The grossest part is the fact that they eat you. Well, your blood. Still, if someone in our house brings these little buggers home, then we have one goal- get rid of them. As with many ailments we have put on this list today, there is an over-the-counter remedy for that.

The issue with those is that they are filled with chemicals and synthetic remedies. If given the choice, wouldn’t you prefer to cure this issue a natural way? I would, which is why I am a fan of aromatherapy and a user of essential oils.

You can put together a DIY shampoo like we mentioned earlier or a mask of some sort with other natural ingredients like salt and vinegar. Mix with warm water and apply to the scalp. It needs to be mentioned here that eucalyptus globulus should not be used on children 6 years or younger to cure a lice infestation due to its strong neurotoxic compound.

Fights cold sores

Close up of female lips affected by herpes virus in white background

Otherwise known as fever blisters, cold sores are a massive inconvenience. They hurt and make going out difficult to do without focusing on the big blistery mess on your lip. Personally, when I have a cold sore, its all my mind can focus on when conversing with someone, making it difficult to pay attention to conversations.

But my attention isn’t the subject of this piece, the cold sores are. As it turns out, the anti-inflammatory compounds in eucalyptus oil can help accelerate the healing process of the virus. Because you will be applying it topically, I am going to repeat myself by reminding you to dilute it well and do a spot check first.

Other oils that work well on cold sores as well as a good combo to include on your blend are lavender, clove, peppermint, chrysanthemum, chamomile, tea tree, hyssop, thyme, and lemon balm. A good carrier for this type of application would be coconut, sweet almond, or olive oil. Create a blend of your own and write it down in a journal so you will always know the ratios you used.

Diabetes

A picture of a cartoon man holding a slogan with Stop Diabetes written in blue background

I am sure you have heard of diabetes before, but do you know what it is? In short, it’s a disease that develops when there is too much glucose, or sugar, in your blood. There are many types of diabetes, and these are type 1, type 2, gestational, monogenic, and cystic-fibrosis-related diabetes.

For the most part, diabetes occurs when your body cannot produce its own insulin, which turns glucose into energy. Type 1 typically affects children and young adults while type 2 is typically brought on in adulthood by obesity. Gestational is when pregnant women develop this issue and monogenic, which is rare and due to a change in one lone gene.

As it turns out, Eucalyptus globulus is used in traditional medicines developed towards the treatment of diabetes. There are some people who ingest essential oils, but I think that you should always consult a physician when incorporating any internal treatments no matter what they are.

You could massage a diluted version on your abdomen over the area where the pancreas is located since it’s the organ that creates insulin. Diffusing the scent while you watch television is another way to incorporate its benefits. You could also add a few drops to a bath once a week.

Reduces Fevers

Close up of Pvc rubber hot compress bag on woman's stomach while laying down wearing a checkered long sleeve polo

When you get sick and your internal temperature begins to rise, this is what is called a fever. You may not know the cause when you first feel one coming in, but the signs are unmistakable. Sweating, high temperature, and the chills.

What we do know is that fevers are the body’s defense mechanism. These are reactions of the body’s defense mechanism and can be caused by a number of things. An internal infection or irritation, a blood clot, an autoimmune disease, a hormone disorder, and as a side effect of drug use are all possibilities.

Whatever the cause might be, when we or one of our loved ones has a fever, it is our main priority is to find a way to bring it down. Rest and hydration are two natural ways you can battle a fever. Aromatherapy is another. A tepid bath with a few drops of the oil should help.

Kills Bad Breath

Girl having a bad breath in white background

Bad breath can be a real problem especially if you are a person who accumulates more bacteria in your mouth than most. This gathering of oral bacteria is the main cause of bad breath.

The thing is, bad breath isn’t just a sign of bad hygiene. It can be an indication of something wrong in the mouth, like gingivitis. The fact is, mouth issues can lead to serious health problems all around. Remember, our bodily functions are all interconnected like a finely tuned machine.

Of course, if you suspect you have gingivitis you should make an appointment to see a dentist right away. Until you can get in, it might be a good idea to create a nice mouthwash with a few drops of eucalyptus oil. Warm water with salt could make a great base if you think your gums might be infected.

Eases Joint Pain and Arthritis

Young woman having knee pain in white background

I have a little secret to tell you. Arthritis, in medical terminology, literally means pain, irritation, and stiffness of the joints. But, there are different reasons why one might be experiencing arthritis. The type we think of is typically associated with aging, but working out and physical laborious careers are two more reasons why someone might experience joint pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is considered a disorder with chronic pain, which means you have it all the time. At the core, this type of condition is when the joints become inflamed, which can be helped with a topical eucalyptus oil treatment.

There are several ways you can do this. Soak in a tub with some eucalyptus, prepare a warm compress to put on the joints that are causing you pain, or you can create a topical cream or oil to apply directly to the affected areas. I’ve said it before, but I will say it again, know your dilution ratios so you don’t cause negative reaction since this extract is on the stronger side.

Works on Muscle Pain

Man suffering from neck pain on white background

There are an estimated 650 skeletal muscles in the human body. All of which can cause us a bit of agony over time. The reasons why our muscles might hurt can be one or more of several things including stress, tension, overuse, and injury.

When our muscles hurt, it helps to relax them with natural remedies like alternating ice and heat packs, drinking cherry juice, and applying a topical treatment made with beneficial essential oils like eucalyptus. This amazing extract provides a cooling sensation when applied topically, which is just what a sore muscle needs.

If you are suffering from chronic muscle pain and find that natural remedies are not working to relieve it, then you should definitely seek medical attention. Stopping muscle pain before it starts is the best action to take, so make sure to stretch well before those workouts.

Helps With Sinus Issues

Sinus human nasal cavity with human head representing health care and medical treatment for colds and congestion

Sinusitis or infection of the sinuses is a real problem. It doesn’t matter what season your part of the world is experiencing right now, odds are, there is something that can irritate your sinuses. When this happens, it can become debilitating and will ruin your day, week, or month.

As with anything else, there are over-the-counter remedies and I won’t lie, I use them myself. However, after a while of drugging yourself to sleep, it gets cloudy so I like to find a natural remedy, and Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most natural ways to relieve infections of the sinuses.

Inhalation will be your best approach when trying to relieve your sinuses of any irritation. This can be done while you rest, while you bathe, or simply by putting a few drops on a cotton ball and inhaling it every now and then.

Fights Asthma

Pretty blonde woman sitting on the couch, having breath difficulties in the living room

Asthma is a disease that has no cure and makes breathing difficult for the sufferer. The air passages of the lungs get inflamed and make it difficult to function properly. When the lungs get constricted, passing oxygen through them is restricted.

Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and tightness. This can be a dangerous situation if not treated correctly, which is a discussion between you and your healthcare provider. We are, in no way, suggesting that aromatherapy can replace your asthma medications but that it be considered as a complementary therapy.

Just as you would with other breathing disorders, your best bet is to inhale eucalyptus via a diffuser, the steam in the shower, or some other way of breathing in the beneficial compounds found in this extract. The anti-inflammatory properties in eucalyptus should be able to help an asthma sufferer breath easier.

Boosts Immune System

Human body with cancer cells spreading and growing through the body via red blood as malignant cells due to environmental carcinogens and genetic tumors and cel

Our immune system is extremely important. It’s no more important than the other systems in our body, but that said, it is just as important as the rest of them as well. Immunity is what stands between us and some seriously major health issues. Let’s take a look at some of the issues we already talked about.

Colds and the flu could kill us if it weren’t for our immune system and so would a little cut on our finger. This system was put into place for our protection, so what if it starts to slow down a bit? That wouldn’t be good if pathogens came our way.

Inhalation is a great place to start if you are looking to give your immunity a boost. About twenty minutes a day with your diffuser should do it. You might find that you don’t need eucalyptus to kill your cold because it will stave it off, to begin with.

Promotes Healthy Skin

Beautiful young woman applying anti-ageing moisturizing serum to under eye area. Isolated over white background.

Skin is the largest organ the human body possesses. When we think of skin, we think of the stuff on our face, but the reality is, our skin covers every inch of us. We need to keep it in tip top shape, not just the ones we see in the mirror.

But with all the toxins and allergens that surround us every day, keeping our skin healthy and looking great can be a challenge. Eucalyptus is an antibacterial agent, it works as an antiviral, an antifungal, and an anti-inflammatory. With powers like this, its no wonder that it does such amazing things for your skin.

It can work on skin issues like acne, insect bites, or other types of skin irritations. The best approach for skin health is to create a nice blend with eucalyptus and other essential oil that could benefit your dermis. Avocado oil is a great carrier substance to use as the base of your blend because it’s a moisturizer.

Room Deodorant

Aroma oil diffuser on table against blurred background. Air freshener

Bad odors don’t only reside in our mouths. Our homes and offices become inundated with them just from living. Take out lunches, dogs, cats, burnt popcorn in the microwave, and mildew from that towel you threw in the hamper too soon are all examples of odors that can linger about in your spaces.

There are several ways you can use eucalyptus to get rid of these room invaders. Diffusers, terracotta molds, nebulizers, cotton balls, facial tissues, and much more are all vehicles for you to get your favorite oils to roam around a room. When you use eucalyptus, you can kiss all those foul odors goodbye.

Eucalyptus has a strong scent so blending it with some other oils isn’t a bad idea. While the eucalyptus eliminates the bad odors, the lavender oil you decided to pair it with will add to the pleasant aroma in your space.

Relieves Stress

woman sleeping on white bed and get relaxed

Stress sucks. While that may seem like a crass way to get my point across, the fact is, most of the people reading that sentence would agree with me. I hate feeling stressed, and when I do, my mind is focused on one thing and one thing only and that is making that stress go away.

There are several ways you can battle excessive stress in your life. Yoga, meditation, exercise, and diet are all natural remedies for stress. Prescription medications are an option, which you need a doctor to obtain.

Aromatherapy is a great way to battle stress without adding any chemicals or pharmaceuticals into your system. Inhalation of essential oils with the hope of relieving stress is probably one of the top reasons why people practice this type of therapy in the first place.

Promotes Oral Health

Portrait of a beautiful girl wearing white t-shirt, holding a mouthwash and a white cup. Isolated on white.

Because eucalyptus works as an antibacterial agent, it’s no surprise that it’s a great aid when it comes to oral health. Bacteria is what builds up and cause plaque and gingivitis, so, when you “swish” a little blend of eucalyptus in some coconut oil you create a powerful blend. Pulling is a method of swishing coconut oil around your teeth and gums to pull out toxins.

When you put the two together, look out. Eucalyptus works as an anti-inflammatory, which is great if you are suffering from any kind of gum abnormalities. You should consult a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen of essential oils, and this is no different when you are dealing with your mouth.

Ask your dentist about this approach if you have any questions.

To Conclude

There are several types of eucalyptus available, and it is important to know the difference between them when deciding which benefit you are searching for. Eucalyptus radiata, globulus, dives, and polybractea (blue mallee) are all powerful extracts and should be used with caution after doing adequate research.

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