The Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus) is a tree of the botanical family Myrtaceae native to Australia and of which there are more than 400 subspecies. It is well known for its stimulating qualities for the body due to the medicinal properties of its leaves, which contain an essential oil called eucalyptol.
This tree can grow up to 60 meters high. The trunk is smooth grayish, it has light green and elongated leaves, its flowers are white and without petals.
Active principles of eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus leaves contain essential oil (especially cineole), fravonoids, tannins and acids, which provide the eucalyptus with expectorant, antimicrobial, analgesic, balsamic, antibacterial, febrifugal, diuretic, healing, antirheumatic, vermifuge, antiviral, rubefacient action, antiseptic, purifying, decongestant, antispasmodic, fluidifying, vulnerable and anti-inflammatory.
In which presentations can we find the Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus can be found in presentations such as:
Tea bags or infusions.
In the form of tablets or capsules.
In the form of syrup or drops.
Essential oil.
Ointments.
Candy
Medicinal benefits of Eucalyptus
Respiratory problems: eucalyptus is excellent for cases of flu, colds, asthma, bronchitis and nasal congestion, since it is a bronchodilator that helps the air to pass through the bronchial tubes in a fluid way, cleaning them of mucus.
Eucalyptus reduces fever naturally, reduces or eliminates headaches such as migraines.
Gingivitis: Reduces pain and disinfects the throat, for this the eucalyptus leaves are boiled in water and gargled with the infusion.
Diseases in the muscles and bones: due to its anti-inflammatory action, eucalyptus helps people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or muscle pain. Mix the essential oil with almond oil and massage the area twice a day.
Healing: eucalyptus oil is used to accelerate the healing of minor wounds and acne marks on the face, as well as to disinfect and clean wounds, cuts, ulcers or sores on the skin.
Cleanses the urinary system: Taking two drops of eucalyptus essential oil, this prevents the reproduction of bacteria, fungi and viruses in the urinary system, relieving the symptoms of infections.
Mental and emotional fatigue: The balsamic aroma of its leaves gives you comforting and relaxing sensations, it is ideal to lift your spirits and temporarily relieve depression. Stimulates the nervous system and helps concentration.
Diabetes: infused eucalyptus leaves lower blood sugar levels. You should not consume more than one cup per day.
How can we use eucalyptus
Infusion: 10 grams of dried eucalyptus leaves per liter of water. In cases of conditions in the respiratory or urinary tract, you should consume between three and four cups per day, maximum.
Steam baths: 20 grams of dried leaves of this tree per liter of water for the chest and head. Pour the leaves into a container with boiling water and place your face on top to breathe in its steam (if possible with a bare torso). One steam bath per day is enough to decongest the respiratory system.
Gargle or nasal washes: also 20 grams of leaves per liter for laryngeal conditions or colds and nasal congestion. Gargle up to three times a day and nasal washes with a rubber bulb no more than twice.
Inhalations: 20 grams of eucalyptus leaves or 20 ml of fluid extract per liter of boiling water. Up to three times a day.
External use: tincture or ointment directly on the area to be treated two to three times a day. Baths can be prepared, with 20 ml of fluid extract per 10 liters of water, for cases of canker sores or minor wounds.
Tea: 40 grams of leaves per liter of boiling water. Filter and sweeten with honey. Drink three or four cups a day.
Recommendations
Eucalyptus oil should be used in moderation as excess consumption can cause skin irritation, it should not be applied to infants or children under six years of age, or to asthmatics.
It is advisable to consult its internal use with a qualified professional. It is recommended not to be used if you are taking other medications, as it may reduce their effectiveness.
It should not be consumed in case of suffering from some gastrointestinal inflammations, suffering from the bile ducts or liver failure.
Main image source:https://www.sott.net/article/318139-The-medicinal-uses-and-benefits-of-eucalyptus-oil
