Eucalyptus -
Originally native to
Australia, eucalyptus trees are now grown all over the world and used for their
medical properties. The healing power comes from eucalyptus oil, which is made
from the tree’s oval-shaped leaves.
The leaves are
dried, crushed, and distilled to release the essential oil. After the oil has
been extracted, it must be diluted before it can be used as a medicine.
The primary active
constituent in the medicinal/aromatherapy eucalyptus species is cineol, also
known as eucalyptol. Cineol's medicinal, camphoraceous aroma has antiseptic and
expectorant properties. The brisk aroma is energizing.
For many years,
eucalyptus oil has been used to relieve coughing. Today, some over-the-counter
cough medications have eucalyptus oil as one of their active ingredients. Vicks
VapoRub, for example, contains about 1.2 percent eucalyptus oil along with other
cough suppressant chemicals.
The popular rub is
applied to the chest and throat to relieve cough symptoms from a common cold or
flu.
Respiratory
conditions such as asthma and sinusitis may be helped by inhaling steam with
added eucalyptus oil. The oil reacts with mucous membranes, not only reducing
mucus but helping loosen it so that you can cough it up.
It’s also possible
that eucalyptus contains a chemical that helps block asthma symptoms. On the
other hand, for people who are allergic to eucalyptus, it may actually worsen
their asthma. More research is needed to determine how eucalyptus affects
people with asthma.
Mosquitoes and other
biting insects carry diseases that can be dangerous to our health. Avoiding
their bites is our best defense. DEET sprays are the most popular repellents,
but they’re made with strong chemicals.
As an effective
alternative for those who aren’t able to use DEET, many manufactures also make
a botanical compound to repel the pests. Brands such as Repel and Off! use oil
of lemon eucalyptus to keep the pests away.
The Australian
aborigines used eucalyptus leaves to treat wounds and prevent infection. Today
the diluted oil may still be used on the skin to fight inflammation and promote
healing. You can purchase creams or ointments that have eucalyptus oil as an
ingredient. These products may be used on minor burns or other injuries that
can be treated at home.
Research suggests
that eucalyptus oil may help to ease joint pain. In fact, many popular
over-the-counter creams and ointments used to soothe pain from conditions such
as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis contain the essential oil. The oil
helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with these conditions. It may
also be helpful to people experiencing back pain or recovering from a joint or
muscle injury.
Emotional Benefits
Its aroma is more
commonly known for it's support of the respiratory system and any issues
involving it, as well as many skin related concerns. But aromatically, it has
some interesting psychological benefits too. In particular, it relates to a
person's willingness to be well. Many people may think that everyone desires to
be well, but don't acknowledge the often underlying patterns that keep us
perpetuating illness. It might be out of a lack of self-love, feelings of
"selfishness", hypochondria, or even a lesson that many people learn
that says illness is what gains you love and attention. Eucalyptus oil uses may
then include helping a person regain their own health empowerment,
self-approval and self-love, release patterns of neediness to those who can't
or aren't willing to love or care for them, and even move past patterns that
keep a person in a role of victim to people or circumstances.
Ideas:
Make shower melts to
help support respiratory health:
• 2 Cups Baking Soda
• Water
• 10 Drops
Eucalyptus Oil
Find Eucalyptus oil here!
Find Eucalyptus oil here!
• 10 Drops
Peppermint Oil
• 5 Drops Rosemary
Oil
• 5 Drops Lavender
Oil
DIRECTIONS
Gradually add water
to baking soda until just wet enough to stick together and form a very thick
paste. Add in all essential oils and mix well to incorporate throughout. Place
in mold of choice (recommend using smallish mold around 1”-2” in diameter. Allow
to air dry overnight. Remove from mold and store in air tight container. Drop
one in bottom of shower as needed for respiratory comfort.
Purifying Spray: In
glass spray bottle; mix, 1 Cup water, 1 Cup Vodka (seriously, use the CHEAP
stuff...don’t drink it!), 10 drops each Melaleuca(tea tree oil), Lavender, and
Eucalyptus essential oils.
No comments:
Post a Comment