- What are the properties of eucalyptus oil?
- How to use eucalyptus oil?
- Eucalyptus oil - contraindications
Its characteristic smell reminds us of the relief it brings during a runny nose. But eucalyptus oil also has a number of other he alth benefits. What is eucalyptus oil useful for and how to use it safely?
Eucalyptus oilis obtained from eucalyptus leaves: a plant that is native to Tasmania and Southeast Australia, and grows primarily in tropical and subtropical climates. It is an evergreen tree that grows up to 130 meters in height.
Its ripe leaves - the only food source for Australian koalas - have a distinctive blue-greenish color, are hard, and their structure is described as "leathery".
The glands in them are used to obtaineucalyptus oilfrom the glands in them in the process of steam distillation. from childhood, when it was a great remedy for a stuffy nose. It was enough to sprinkle it on a pillow to breathe freely at night.
But eucalyptus oil is worth using not only during colds. Get to know all its valuable properties and application.
What are the properties of eucalyptus oil?
Eucalyptus oil is colorless and oily. In folk medicine, it was eagerly used to treat respiratory system ailments, asthma, gastric problems, as well as to treat parasitic infections.
Properties of eucalyptus oil:
- It helps soothe colds and infections.The volatile substances contained in it have an astringent effect on the nasal mucosa, thanks to which they clear it and facilitate breathing, and also relax the bronchi, which in turn helps to liquefy the secretion in them.
- Stimulates immunity.
- It has a sanitizing effect- This is due to a substance called eucalyptol, which can destroy some strains of viruses, and is approved by the FDA for gargling recommended for colds and flu.
- Repels insects- especially mosquitoes and fleas.
- Reduces itching and swellingafterinsect bites.
- Cools the skin- relieves both swollen legs and burning skin due to burns.
- Refreshes the breath .
- Has a deodorizing effectand masks the unpleasant smell of sweat.
- It has a relaxing effectand relaxing.
How to use eucalyptus oil?
The valuable properties of eucalyptus oil can be used in various ways, as it is available both in its pure form and as a component of ointments, creams, lotions and preparations for hygiene, disinfection and care.
Pure eucalyptus oil is of course the most concentrated. In concentrated form, however, it must not be applied directly to the skin as it may irritate it.
Pure eucalyptus oil can be used:
- massageskin (usually mix 5 drops of oil with a tablespoon of olive oil, grape seed oil or other carrier oil).
- bath(Pour 15 drops of essential oil into a small vessel and place it under the stream of lukewarm water).
- in the sauna(add a few drops of the oil to the water and pour over the hot stones).
- for inhalation(the amount of oil depends on the recommendations of the manufacturer of the equipment).
- directly on the pillow or clothing- in this case, one drop of the oil is enough.
Preparations containing eucalyptus oil should always be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Eucalyptus oil - contraindications
Although eucalyptus oil has valuable healing properties, not everyone can benefit from its beneficial properties. Contraindication to its use is young age - eucalyptus oil in its pure form is not recommended for children under 3 years of age.
Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and people suffering from chronic respiratory diseases should not use it without consulting a doctor.
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