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The
essential oil of eucalyptus is obtained from the leaves and branches
of the eucalyptus tree, Eucalyptus globules. 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 were
most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants
of Australia (where the tree originated). They used the oil as a
remedy for skin problems and fever; not surprisingly, the eucalyptus
tree has long been called the "fever tree". Modern herbalists
rely on eucalyptus oil to treat these conditions, as well as colds
and other bothersome respiratory ailments. The oil is fine decongestant
and has strong germicidal and antibacterial effects.
For mental
fatigue
4 drops eucalyptus
oil
2 drops lemon oil
Eucalyptus essential
oil stimulates the nervous system and promotes concentration. Combined
with lemon oil in a diffuser, it is ideal to use when the psyche
is affected by mental exhaustion and listlessness.
Therapeutic
effects
The principal active ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol,
which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties. It also
functions as a diuretic, lowers blood sugar and helps to relieve
cough and fever. Eucalyptus oil is an effective analgesic and is
often used in preparations designed to revolve muscle, nerve and
joint pain. On a psychological level, it helps to combat exhaustion
and dispels mental sluggishness.
For a sense
of well being
A few drops of a blend of eucalyptus and massage oils have a cooling
and stimulating effect on both mind and body. Apply to pulse points.
To
purify the sickroom
Eucalyptus oil is the 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 will help keep germs
from spreading.
For wounds
and abscesses
The strong germicidal effect of eucalyptus oil can help heal wounds,
burns, ulcers and insect bites or stings. Place a few drops of the
essential oil on a dressing or bandage before covering the area
with it.
To suppress
coughs
Make a chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils to loosen
phlegm and improve lung function.
For scarlet
fever
A few drops of eucalyptus oil added to a diffuser can help relieve
the flu like symptoms of scarlet fever.
To improve
the sauna
To get th best detoxifying effects of a sauna, place 3 drops of
the oil in a ladleful of water and pour it over the hot stones.
Extra
Tip : Insects dislike the odor
of eucalyptus oil. To make an insect repellent, add a few drops
of the oil to massage oil. Or place a few drops in a diffuser to
keep the room pest free.
An
effective treatment for colds, fever, respiratory diseases, joint
and muscle pain, migraines and bladder problems.
Take
care : Too much eucalyptus oil
can potentially irritate the skin, so 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 under age 6.
Applications
External
use
- Lower a fever
with a eucalyptus calf wrap. Add 5 drops of eucalyptus essential
oil to 1 qt. of lukewarm water. Soak linen or cotton cloths in
the mixture. Then, wrap the cloths around your calves and secure
with dry cloths. Calf wraps should be used only when the feet
are warm.
- To rid dandruff,
mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with your shampoo. 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 the aroma.
- 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 your
muscles.
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