Here at the Jersey Lavender Farm, we actually don’t just grow lavender but also have a lovely little spot that is reserved for growing both rosemary and eucalyptus for oil distillation. Rosemary is a well-known partner for lavender and we have a gorgeous Lavender and Rosemary range that combines the two to perfection. However, eucalyptus seems somewhat more exotic than those other familiar garden staples!
Eucalyptus is native to Australia and has been used by the indigenous aboriginal community for eons to heal wounds, cure fungal infections and reduce fever. Later, with the age of exploration, eucalyptus was adopted by other cultures, such as Chinese, Greek, European and Ayurvedic, as a disinfectant and expectorant.
Today eucalyptus is known to have a number of beneficial effects so read on for an overview of our top uses of eucalyptus essential oil.
As a cold remedy
Eucalyptus has a number of medicinal properties that can make it a very effective treatment for coughs and colds. These days many people wish to turn straight to broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat these generally viral infections, however, a simple dose of natural eucalyptus oil can often be far more effective and actually better for you in the long term. One of the most effective ways for eucalyptus to treat your cold is via steam inhalation. Simply add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam up to three times per day. This will reduce sinus congestion and loosen mucus and phlegm.
As a powerful yet natural household cleaner
Rather than immediately reaching for a chemically synthesised harsh household cleanser from the supermarket shelves, why not try a more natural, cheaper and yet incredibly effective alternative? Eucalyptus essential oil is naturally powerfully anti-bacterial and anti-viral, meaning that it very effective at controlling the spread of germs around the house, whilst also leaving its wonderfully fresh and invigorating scent. Simply add a few drops to a mixture of warm water and white vinegar for a brilliant floor and surface cleanser.
As an effective insect repellent
Many people find commercially available insect repellents too harsh and all too often, ineffective. So why not turn to Mother Nature for her answer? Nasty biting insects have a tendency to hate some of the very scents that we love, including eucalyptus. So you can either try popping a few drops of eucalyptus oil into an oil burner or vaporiser or make a natural bug spray by combining a few drops of eucalyptus (and also consider adding other oils such as lavender essential oil and citronella) to a carrier oil, give it a good shake and then spritz onto exposed skin.
As a relaxing massage oil
Feeling tense? Why not try adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to plain massage oil, ready for your relaxing massage. The scent of the eucalyptus will add a whole new layer of relaxation.
As moisturiser to soothe dry skin
If you love the smell of eucalyptus you could always add it to a plain non-fragranced moisturiser, so that you get to enjoy the scent as you use it. Eucalyptus also has incredible properties, as it can help to boost ceramide production. These fatty acids can help your skin to retain moisture and maintain its protective barrier, so you are not just adding more moisture into your skin with cream, but actually improving the condition of your skin.
As an effective pain reliever
Eucalyptus can act as a natural painkiller, it is often used in pain-relieving creams for topical application. Studies have shown that inhaling the scent can help to reduce pain levels. So, if you find yourself reaching for the medicine cabinet, why not use the natural benefits of eucalyptus instead? As with all-natural remedies, please consult your doctor.
As an aromatic diffuser
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser and enjoy a fresh and relaxing room. It is a fantastic addition to a diffuser, as the oil is known for its soothing properties, clearing your head, as well as clearing any nasty lingering odours.
As effective cuts and scrapes cleaner
Eucalyptus has been used throughout the years as a natural remedy, both the leaves and the extracted oil. The Aboriginals have traditionally used eucalyptus leaves to treat wounds. Today, we still use diluted oil to treat minor injuries. You can find it in topical creams or simply create your own. The plant is known for its incredible healing properties.
As a useful home disinfectant
Not only does eucalyptus work as a home cleaner, but it also disinfects as you clean, thanks to its amazing antiviral and antibacterial properties. So, not only will your house smell amazing, but you can also rest assured that you are protecting your family at the same time.
As an effective sunburn solution
Ouch! Sunburn is very painful and can be hard to relieve. Essential oils, such as eucalyptus and lavender can help. The anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus, combined with its pain-relieving abilities make it the perfect fit to cool your skin. Sunburn can become infected, and the anti-bacterial nature of eucalyptus oil further supports your delicate skin, by helping to reduce the chance of your sunburn becoming infected. Take care of your skin and remember your sunscreen!
As antiseptic remedy
Eucalyptus is an excellent remedy for colds, flu, coughs, bronchitis, sinusitis, and catarrh. Add a few drops of the pure oil to a bowl of hot water, and inhale the vapours for a few minutes. Alternatively, for more portable relief, put a couple of drops on a hanky and inhale the scent.
As chest rub
To relieve colds during the night, a rub using 10ml of massage oil (sweet almond, sunflower, grapeseed, wheat germ, olive etc) and 6 drops of eucalyptus oil can be made up and applied before bedtime.
As muscle & joint rub
Eucalyptus is used extensively in embrocations to relieve rheumatic and muscular pains and the effects of poor circulation. The same massage oil as mentioned above should be used on the affected area. The use of a few drops of our rosemary oil would help.
As general topical antiseptic
The strong antiseptic effect of eucalyptus makes it a useful aid to help burns, blisters, insect bites, cuts, and wounds heal without infection. A spray using 10 drops of eucalyptus oil and 80ml of water can be made up. The bottle will need constantly shaking, but it can be sprayed onto affected areas.
CAUTION: EUCALYPTUS OIL SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR BABIES, INFANTS OR IF RECEIVING HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT.
Essential oils can cause harm if used inappropriately and indiscriminately. We STRONGLY SUGGEST CAUTION if you DO NOT have experience of their use. Please read up carefully on the subject, or consult a qualified aromatherapist or doctor. An excellent introductory home-use guide called “Aromatherapy” is available from the Books section of our shop.
Looking for Eucalyptus Oils?
We love essential oils at Jersey Lavender. They are part of nature’s toolkit. From the kitchen to the bathroom, they can help you throughout your daily life, preventing you from having to automatically reach for harsh chemicals and medicine. We hope that understanding the benefits of eucalyptus oil, will show you why you need it in your life. From improving your health to improving your hair! Having a good stock of different essential oils in your cupboard gives you the resources that you need for whatever life throws at you. Why not take a look at our range of eucalyptus oils and see what we have to offer.
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