Eucalyptus Essential Oil Uses & Benefits

Though many people associate Eucalyptus with koala bears, the amazing properties of these leaves when steam distilled into an essential oil will astound you.  Prized for its ability to open airways and support respiratory health, Eucalyptus has found a home in many products specifically noted for the lungs.  In addition to respiration, it also provides a powerful feeling of relaxation aromatically and can be used in massages or rubs for a double effect of both skin-tingling delight and aromatic release.

It is no wonder that Eucalyptus is considered to be a staple oil in any oil collection.  (Just be sure to use caution if you have kids under the age of 6 in our house, as the camphor component of Eucalyptus could slow breathing in younger children.  As always, it is best to discuss its use with your trusted healthcare provider before using it on anyone with a medical condition or children under the age of 6.)

HISTORY OF EUCALYPTUS

Native to Australia, Eucalyptus Radiata grows on trees that tower over 50 feet above the land as one of over 900 different species of Eucalyptus.  Known as “gum trees” by the natives, the Eucalyptus leaves are a common ingredient in many bush medicines.  Whether infused into a tonic or tied together and mixed with other herbs to make a compress, Eucalyptus leaves have been used by Australia’s Aborigines for centuries in their treatment of a variety of medical conditions.  Most notably, digestive issues and any respiratory issue call for the use of Eucalyptus in their native land.  Interestingly, the leaves used to be smoked in order to harness their amazing respiratory power. Today, dōTERRA works with growers in this indigenous region to ensure that optimum growing and harvesting conditions are met so that top quality essential oil can be produced.

CLEANING BOOST

Eucalyptus essential oil added to your DIY cleaning products can add an extra oomph both aromatically and antiseptically.  Not only does it purify the air in your home as you use it to clean, but it can also keep the nasty chemical aroma out of your home and instead open and improve airways.  Combine Eucalyptus with Lemon or Wild Orange for a powerful surface cleaner and air freshener that cuts through grease and dirt.  Eucalyptus has also found a home in many breath-freshening products and can be added to mouth rinses and toothpaste to promote oral health.

RELAXATION

When used as a part of massage, the camphoraceous aroma and tingling sensation left behind on the skin from Eucalyptus essential oil soothes and calms the mind and body.  Not only does it open airways in the process, but it can help to provide deep muscle relaxation when combined with other essential oils like Peppermint, Lavender, and Marjoram and some coconut oil.  The massage experience alone will ease tension and help to pull your mind away from the stresses that may overwhelm your daily life.

In addition, Eucalyptus also offers skin purification properties so it can be found in many beauty products and will invigorate your skin during even the tensest of times.  In addition to massage, you can also utilize Eucalyptus in your showers to create a steamy invigorating and stimulating experience while you bathe that will promote vitality in your life.  Simply add a few drops to your shower floor and let the steam and aroma do the rest!  Upgrade the potency of your favorite moisturizer by adding a few drops of Eucalyptus to boost your skin and overall appearance while keeping your body relaxed and stress-free.

DIFFUSE AWAY TENSION

Eucalyptus pairs well with other stress-relieving and relaxing oils to create an amazing scent when diffused.  Its sharp airy aroma can be softened by Lavender or Cedarwood to relax and open airways.  When combined with Peppermint and Rosemary, you can create a powerful focus blend that will help you with the task at hand or prepare yourself for the day.  Be sure to add your effective recipes to your notebook of diffuser recipes so that you can continue to experiment and discover what works the best for you and those around you.

Eucalyptus is also known for being able to pull you out of those winter slumps when many of us experience feelings of sadness due to the weather and lack of sunshine.  Diffusing Eucalyptus can invigorate your mind and body while adding a citrus oil to the blend can uplift your spirits as well and keep you motivated throughout the day.

RESPIRATION

Clearly, Eucalyptus finds a home in many products specified for promoting respiratory health.  What you don’t need are all of the extra chemicals and ingredients found in those over-the-counter favorites.  Why not just make your own rub at home that can be used when needed.  Apply directly to your chest for respiratory support and add a wet, warm compress on top to push the oils in deeper and create a steamy aromatherapy experience.  You can also apply this rub directly to the bottoms of the feet, paying careful attention to your toes and the bridge between them and your foot, as well as the ball of your foot.  Cover those tootsies with socks and go to bed for amazing respiratory support through the night.

YOGA AND MEDITATION

Harnessing the power of Eucalyptus to clear your mind and focus on revitalizing your body can be a key to improving your yoga and meditation experience.  Many people have found that by either applying Eucalyptus topically on their wrists or the back of their neck before yoga can really soothe their mind and mood, making their ability to clear their mind for meditation even more effective.  Diffusing Eucalyptus is also a great way to experience its effects, especially when working with a group of people.  Another amazing way to sneak in some Eucalyptus is using the all-purpose spray above to clean your yoga mat or simply adding 5-10 drops of Eucalyptus to a mini glass spray bottle full of distilled water and keeping it with your yoga equipment.  You can spritz your mat before and afterward and give yourself a quick spritz if need be!

Other tips and tricks for Eucalyptus include combining it with Lemon and Melaleuca in distilled water to use as a stink-away spray or adding a few drops to your vacuum or air filter for a whole-house respiratory bonus.  If you would like more information on how you can get your own Eucalyptus, send me a message!  I would love to help you on your essential oil journey.

If you know you are ready to get started with dōTERRA essential oils, you can sign up with me immediately here.