Eucalyptus is native to Australia, but today can be found growing in subtropical regions worldwide. One of the first recorded medicinal uses of Eucalyptus was by the Australian aborigines, who not only extracted valuable water from its roots, but used its leaves to relieve fevers. It has been reported that early Australian developers were able to successfully treat and cure fever using Eucalyptus leaves.

The medicinal properties of Eucalyptus reside in its oil, which is extracted from the fresh leaves and branch tips, as well as dried leaves.

The primary active constituent in eucalyptus leaves is the volatile oil eucalyptol. For eucalyptus to provide an effective expectorant and antiseptic action, the volatile oil should contain at least 70% eucalyptol. Eucalyptus oil has been compared to menthol because it acts on receptors in the nasal mucosa, which help to alleviate nasal congestion.

What are the benefits of Eucalyptus oil?
Medicinal eucalyptus oil is widely used for the relief of cold and influenza symptoms. It is a unique natural product having antiseptic properties and the power to clear the nasal passages and bronchial tubes making it easier to breathe.

Medicinal eucalyptus oil is used as an active ingredient for cough lozenges, inhalation sprays and drops, gargles, mouth washes, toothpastes, balms and ointments, liniments and soaps.

It is becoming popular to use it in saunas and vaporizers. It is an excellent rub for muscular aches and pains and it has been widely used for many years by athletes to help keep muscles in shape. A use which is gaining widespread acceptance is the practice of adding eucalyptus oil to the laundry wash for cleaning and freshening clothes, which utilises its cleaning, deodorizing and antiseptic properties.

Eucalyptus oil is also used in antiseptic and germicidal disinfectants because of its pleasant odor and its effectiveness in killing bacteria. It is an excellent solvent which makes it an ideal spot and stain remover.

How do I use a Steam Inhalation?
Steam inhalation allows hot, moist air to enter the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is known for its decongestant properties. By using the oil as a steam inhalation, your nasal passages and sinuses can be cleared

To prepare a Eucalyptus steam inhalation, you need the following materials:
 kettle with boiling water
 oil
 sheet or large towel
 large bowl or container

Once you have all these, carefully pour about 4-6 cubs of boiling water from the kettle into the large bowl. Then, add three drops of oil. Hold your head over the bowl, eyes looking down on it. Next, cover your head with the sheet or towel. Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply. Do this for about 15 minutes until your nasal passages are cleared.

Cautions and Interactions:
Eucalyptus supplementation is inadvisable for young children, pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, and anyone with low blood pressure, kidney problems, stomach problems, intestinal or biliary inflammation, or liver disorders.
Insulin-dependent diabetics should carefully monitor blood sugar since eucalyptus may affect blood sugar levels.

 Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
 Discontinue use if excessive irritation develops
 Not suitable for babies
 Not suitable for inhalation, or external use on unbroken skin only

Not recommended for children under 7 years old.