Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree that originally came from Australia and is now grown around the world. It is Eucalyptus leaves that are used medicinally, and the oil contained in them is obtained through a process of steam distillation. It was the Australian aborigines who first made use of eucalyptus. They used eucalyptus leaves as a fever treatment and chewed on eucalyptus roots to obtain water.
The use of eucalyptus spread outside of Australia in the 1800’s after sailors on an Australian ship were able to successfully treat fevers with eucalyptus tea. After that eucalyptus gained a reputation throughout Europe as the “Australian fever tree.” 19th century American physicians began the practice of using a steam of eucalyptus oils to treat whooping cough, bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.
1) The effective component of eucalyptus leaves is an oil called eucalyptol.
2) Eucalyptus oil acts like menthol, by acting on receptors in nasal mucosa and reducing congestion.
3) In studies different species of eucalyptus have been shown to exhibit antibacterial properties.
4) Paired with menthol, eucalyptus can help to reduce snoring.
5) Athletes have found eucalyptus to be effective in warming muscles when eucalyptus ointment is rubbed on them.
6) Eucalyptus is thought to be an aid in the treatment of muscle soreness.
7) Eucalyptus can be applied to the skin in order to repel insects.
8) Some believe that rubbing eucalyptus oil in your forehead can relieve headaches.
9) Eucalyptus may further lower the blood pressure of people who already have low blood pressure.
10) Eucalyptus oil can be fatal if taken internally.
Even though drinking eucalyptus oil is deadly, there are generally few side effects associated with eucalyptus. Eucalyptus can cause diarrhea and nausea when too much is taken, and it is advised that children under the age of two not be given eucalyptus oil.
Copyright © Dennis Becker, 2004.
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