Medicinal Monday - Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus is a genus of the plant family Myrtaceae, and most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants of Australia. (There are more than 700 species of Eucalyptus) The essential oil is obtained from the branches and leaves. A steam distillation process is used to extract the oil from the tree parts, and some 110 pounds of plant material is required to produce about 2 pounds of eucalyptus oil. The medicinal properties of eucalyptus oil is an effective remedy for skin problems and fever, and has long been called the "fever tree". Modern herbalists rely on eucalyptus oil to treat colds, fever, respiratory diseases, joint and muscle pain, migraines and bladder problems. The oil has strong germicidal and antibacterial effects.

Photo by pizzodisevo

For Mental Fatigue:
The essential oil stimulates the nervous system and promotes concentration. Combined with lemon oil in a diffuser, it is ideal for mental exhaustion and listlessness.

• 4 drops eucalyptus oil
• 2 drops lemon oil

Therapeutic effects:
The principal ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol, which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties.

• As a diuretic, it lowers blood sugar and helps to relieve cough and fever.
• As an effective analgesic, it is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain.
• On a psychological level, it helps to combat exhaustion and dispels mental sluggishness.

For a sense of well being:

• Blend a few drops of eucalyptus oil and massage oils for a cooling and stimulating effect on both mind and body. (Apply to pulse points)

To purify the sickroom:
It is an ideal essence to use in a sickbed environment.

• Five drops of the oil in a diffuser will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria. (This helps keep germs from spreading)

For wounds and abscesses:
The STRONG germicidal effect can help heal wounds, burns, ulcers and insect bites or stings.

• Place a few drops of the oil on a dressing or bandage before covering the area with it.

To suppress coughs:

• A chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils will help loosen phlegm and improve lung function.

To improve the sauna:
Get the best detoxifying effects of a sauna.

• Place 3 drops of the oil in a ladle fulL of water and pour over the hot stones.

Applications:


External use:

• Lower a fever with a eucalyptus calf wrap; Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 qt. of lukewarm water, soak linen or cotton cloths in the mixture. Wrap the cloths around your calves and secure with dry cloths. (Calf wraps should be used only when the feet are warm)
• To get rid of dandruff; Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with your shampoo and massage well into your scalp. (Wait a few minutes before rinsing)
• To alleviate cold symptoms; Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief and deeply inhale.
• To relieve sinus and chest congestion; Combine 5 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 drop of peppermint oil. Add crushed eucalyptus, peppermint, coltsfoot and comfrey herbs. Place ½ oz. of mixture in a clean sock, knot the end and place inside your pillowcase overnight.
• For relief from muscular aches and pains; Mix 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil and 2 oz. of sweet almond or grapeseed oil, massage into muscles.

Tips:

Insects dislike the odor of eucalyptus oil.

• Add a few drops of the oil to massage oil.
• Place a few drops in a diffuser to keep the room pest free.
• Warning: Too much eucalyptus oil can irritate the skin, be sure to use the exact amount specified in the preparations listed here. Combining eucalyptus oil with massage oil reduces the chance of irritation. Keep eucalyptus oil away from children.

References:

The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

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