Eucalyptus: uses, and 12 properties and benefits of this plant

There are more than 700 species of eucalyptus. It is a highly valued plant for several reasons: it grows very fast, providing a durable wood. and of quality, its leaves are used in traditional medicine and have many benefits therapeutic.

Eucalyptus has different uses and ways of preparing to enjoy them. In addition to essential oils, it is prepared as an infusion, used in a vaporizer, as a mouthwash or as poultices. Learn about the properties and benefits of eucalyptus in this article.

• Related article: "The 15 medicinal plants with the most properties and benefits"

Eucalyptus, how to use it and enjoy its 12 benefits

Eucalyptus has been used since ancient times to alleviate various ailments. Currently, some scientific studies support the healing properties of this plant only for certain conditions, in others there is still no scientific support.

However, for many years herbal medicine lagged behind to make way for allopathic medicine. But there are some traditions that are still present, and the use of eucalyptus to enjoy its properties and benefits is one of them.

Related: "Tea tree oil: what it is for and 11 properties"

1. Respiratory diseases

The main use of eucalyptus is in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Eucalyptus leaves have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as being an effective expectorant.

For this reason, eucalyptus is used as an aid in treatments for diseases such as asthma, and for simple colds, bronchitis and sinusitis. The combination of these properties in the eucalyptus plant make it effective in this type of disease.

2. Insect repellent

Eucalyptus is an effective insect repellent. Although there are products on the market that carry out this action, eucalyptus is still the favorite of many, as it is a natural alternative to ward off insects and save us from their bites.

To use eucalyptus as a repellent, it is better to do it as an essential oil and apply directly to the body. It is effective in keeping mosquitoes, ticks and even mites away, and it is also kind to sensitive skin.

3. Herpes

Eucalyptus is a very effective healing. And when a person has a herpesSores can be painful, annoying, and irritating. A natural way to relieve discomfort and also accelerate healing is by using eucalyptus.

Simply apply a few drops of essential oil on gauze and apply to the skin affected by herpes. It must be done several times during the day, and in addition to providing freshness, the healing process will be faster.

4. Antirheumatic treatment

Another property of eucalyptus is that it works as an effective antirheumatic. This is due to its anti-inflammatory capacity. It can be used externally directly on the area that is affected by rheumatoid inflammation.

For this reason, eucalyptus is used in traditional and herbal medicine as an alternative to relieve pain in patients with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to reducing inflammation, it achieves pain relief.

5. Acne

For mild to moderate acne, eucalyptus is an excellent option. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make this plant a good ally to treat acne and accelerate the disappearance of pimples.

Again, eucalyptus can be used as an essential oil. Adding a few drops to a clean cloth and tapping the area affected by acne. Another option is to prepare an infusion and put your face towards the steam, avoiding that it is too hot.

6. Oral health

Eucalyptus is used in many oral health products. Being an antibacterial plant, plus its anti-inflammatory property, eucalyptus helps maintain proper oral health.

In cases of gingivitis or inflammation of the gums, it is recommended to wet a cotton ball infused with eucalyptus and gently massage the gums. In addition to making mouthwashes that also help eliminate bad odor.

7. Disinfectant

Traditional Chinese medicine used eucalyptus as a disinfectant. With it they cleaned the medical instruments. Today there is research that assures that this is valid, when verifying that eucalyptus has powerful antibacterial qualities.

For this reason, the use of eucalyptus is still recommended today as a natural alternative to disinfect utensils or surfaces, especially in the kitchen. Eucalyptus essential oil may be the most effective way to use it for this purpose.

8. Auxiliary against diabetes

Eucalyptus is a hypoglycemic plant. This means that it has the property of reducing blood sugar levels. For this reason, always under medical supervision, this plant can be used as an aid to treat diabetes.

A eucalyptus-based honey has even been developed as a sweetening alternative for people with diabetes. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before indiscriminately consuming the eucalyptus plant in any presentation.

9. Strengthens the immune system

Another property of eucalyptus is that it strengthens the immune system. Taking a eucalyptus infusion regularly has, among many benefits, that the body's defenses are strengthened to attack possible diseases.

There are scientific studies that are still in the process of verifying this property of eucalyptus, however the first results have indicated that the tests on animals were positive.

10. Headache

Eucalyptus is an effective natural remedy for headache relief. This is due to its analgesic properties. So if there is an episode of headache, take an infusion of eucalyptus, make vaporizations or apply a little essential oil, it helps to relieve pain.

It is important to remember that if the headache persists for several days, or that the eucalyptus does not eliminate it, in addition to being accompanied by other symptoms, it is best to go to the doctor to rule out any other condition.

11. For scrapes and bruises

In the event of a minor accident, eucalyptus can be a good ally. As already mentioned, in addition to being an anti-inflammatory, eucalyptus helps accelerate the healing processes. For this reason, it is recommended for minor scratches or wounds.

Likewise, if there is a blow, it can be applied topically to help reduce inflammation. There are ointments on the market that contain eucalyptus. Although you can also prepare an infusion and moisten a cloth to apply it to the affected area.

12. Flavoring

The smell of eucalyptus is refreshing and pleasant. One use that can be used for eucalyptus is to aromatize the environment. Whether a bouquet of eucalyptus leaves is placed in a vase, a diffuser with essential oil is used, or oil is added to a lit candle to spread the scent, all are ways to refresh the environment with your fragrance.

Another option is to dilute coconut oil with essential oil in a spray and spread a little in the environment. This, in addition, has therapeutic benefits since the fragrance of eucalyptus is being breathed. It may help relieve flu symptoms while enjoying the smell.

Bibliographic references

• Brooker, M.I.H.; Kleinig, D.A. (2006). Field Guide to Eucalyptus. Melbourne: Bloomings. 3rd ed.
• Myburg, Alexander A.; et al. (2014). "The genome of Eucalyptus grandis". Nature. 510 (7505): 356–362.
• Pankhurst, Richard (1968). Economic History of Ethiopia. Addis Ababa: Haile Selassie I University.