Eucalyptus leaf extract has been used as “remedy” for the symptoms of cold and flu in some folk medicines [28]. Compounds found in eucalyptus leaf have direct microbicidal activity against bacteria, viruses, mycobacteria and fungi.
Eucalyptus globulus and Cinnamomum Zeylanicum EOs also have been reported to have antiviral activity (Astani, Reichling, & Schnitzler, 2010; Cermelli, Fabio, Fabio, & Quaglio, 2008; Vimalanathan & Hudson, 2014).
According to a 2017 study , a blend of cinnamon, wild carrot, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils has both antibacterial and antiviral properties. Researchers believe this blend could be a powerful treatment for both the flu and bacterial pneumonia, a common result of the flu.
Signs of eucalyptus poisoning might include stomach pain and burning, dizziness, muscle weakness, small eye pupils, feelings of suffocation, and some others. Eucalyptus oil can also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
To make a eucalyptus inhalant, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or a handful of leaves to hot water or a vaporizer and deeply inhale the steam vapor for five to 10 minutes (take care not to burn yourself). You can also use eucalyptus oil in a warm bath or shower.
Studies have shown that it kills several common bacteria and viruses responsible for causing illness, including E. coli, S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae ( 1 ). Moreover, a study testing several types of hand wash shows that adding tea tree oil to the cleansers boosted their effectiveness against E. coli ( 4 ).
Meanwhile, essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint contain compounds called phenol that can irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled, particularly in babies.
Eucalyptus is used for its soothing effects when inhaled, for example during a cold or cough. If swallowed, eucalyptus oil can cause seizures. Sage oil has been used as a scent, seasoning, and remedy. Swallowing more than a very small amount has caused seizures in children.
These remedies might help you feel better:
- Stay hydrated. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration.
- Rest. Your body needs rest to heal.
- Soothe a sore throat.
- Combat stuffiness.
- Relieve pain.
- Sip warm liquids.
- Try honey.
- Add moisture to the air.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)Eucalyptus is a popular topical essential oil, especially for wound and burn healing. It's also an astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. In this 2015 review, eucalyptus was touted as being used for burns, as well as other skin problems like cuts, lice, and insect bites.
Inhaling menthol not only provides relief from nasal congestion, but might help inhibit infection as well. Rosemary, thyme, mint, basil, and tea tree oils can also provide relief from symptoms of a cold. Use caution if you have asthma, since aromatherapy can trigger an attack.
How to use essential oils to treat a fever
- inhale essential oils by sniffing the bottle directly or adding a few drops to a cotton ball, handkerchief, or pillow before you sleep.
- add a few drops to a diffuser.
- dilute in a carrier oil and add to your bath.
- dilute in a carrier oil and use in a massage.
Eucalyptus oilPeople often use eucalyptus oil in steam baths. Like peppermint oil, it may clear stuffiness and congestion in the nose. Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called cineole.
Essential OilsLemon oil has antibacterial properties and has been shown to limit the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Add 1 to 2 drops to a glass of water or herbal tea. Thyme oil is a common home remedy for strep throat symptoms.
Essential oils for cough
- Eucalyptus essential oil.
- Cinnamon essential oil.
- Rosemary essential oil.
- Nutmeg essential oil.
- Bergamot essential oil.
- Cypress essential oil.
- Thyme essential oil.
- Geranium essential oil.
According to a 2010 study, the On Guard blend may be effective in helping treat and control the influenza (flu) virus. The study found that the oil weakened the flu virus in in vitro canine kidney cells that were infected.
Laboratory studies later showed that eucalyptus oil contains substances that kill bacteria. It also may kill some viruses and fungi. Studies in animals and test tubes show that eucalyptus oil acts as an expectorant, meaning it helps coughs by loosening phlegm.
According to a 2016 study , eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial, antifungal, and herbicidal properties. Advocates of using eucalyptus oil to apply to hair suggest that it: stimulates hair follicles. improves hair health.
Eucalyptus oilThe study concluded that inhaling eucalyptus oil can significantly lower inflammation, pain, and blood pressure following this procedure. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you can topically apply this diluted oil or gel to the affected area to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Eucalyptus leaves have many impressive benefits. They may help decrease pain, promote relaxation, and relieve cold symptoms. Many over-the-counter products also use eucalyptus extract to freshen your breath, soothe irritated skin, and repel insects.
Shower steam helps activate and release
eucalyptus oil compounds into the air, allowing you to breathe them in.
These include:
- Stress reduction. For some people, the scent of eucalyptus can produce an immediate sense of calm.
- Pain relief.
- Respiratory health.
- Sinusitis.
You can apply a drop of eucalyptus oil to a carrier oil and apply it to the chest to help clear the sinuses, or add a few drops to hot water and breathe in the vapor.
Surprisingly, eucalyptus leaves are poisonous to most animals and humans.
Essential oils for your hair
- Lavender essential oil. Lavender oil can speed up hair growth.
- Peppermint essential oil.
- Rosemary essential oil.
- Cedarwood essential oil.
- Lemongrass essential oil.
- Thyme essential oil.
- Clary sage essential oil.
- Tea tree essential oil.
