Eucalyptus is one of the most versatile and multi-purposeful essential oils out there! In this blog post, Madison Esthetics student Allison Schade will go over some of the basic properties, the historical value, and some fun ways to use it, including a DIY body scrub recipe!
Eucalyptus: The SUPER-Essential Oil
Written By: Allison Schade
Latin Name:
Eucalyptus Globulus
Benefits and Effects of Eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus is antimicrobial, antiseptic, antifungal, insecticidal (kills insects), and herbicidal. Not only known for its disinfectant properties, it also aids in the circulation of blood, boosts cognitive performance, reduces headaches, and promotes mental and muscle relaxation and calmness. In addition, it boosts your respiratory system by decongesting – helping aid sinus congestion, cough (not only silencing it but helping it break free and come out of your chest!), and helps aid the symptoms of colds, asthma, and fevers. One impressive fact about eucalyptus oil is that it is said that the disinfection properties actually increase as the oil ages!
History of Eucalyptus:
Native to Australia, eucalyptus was thought of as a cure-all by the Aborigines and later by European settlers. Eucalyptus leaves were used for their help in healing every type of wound and cut. With a rich tradition in medicine, eucalyptus was and is considered one of the most powerful and versatile herbal remedies.
Ways to Use:
- Air Freshener: put drops in a diffuser
- On Your Hair: mix with olive oil and apply to scalp for moisture, to repel dandruff and itchiness, or as a natural lice remedy
- Cleaning/Aroma Booster: mix with laundry detergent, soap, etc. for an extra boost of anti-microbial properties and aroma
- Air Cleanser: put drops in vacuum or dryer sheets
- Insect Repellent: mix with water in a spray bottle
- Odor Remover: mix with water and topically wash items
- Or try the DIY body scrub recipe below!
Homemade Eucalyptus Body Scrub:
Ingredients
1-2 cups sugar
¼ cup coconut oil
5-20 drops eucalyptus oil
How to make
- Combine coconut oil and ¾ cups sugar until creamy
- Add eucalyptus oil while stirring
- Add remaining sugar until formula is desired consistency
Sources:
- https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-eucalyptus-essential-oil.html
- http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112708006166
- http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ffj.2024/abstract
Allison Schade is an Esthetics student
at our Madison school. This blog post was
adapted from her Aromatherapy project.
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