Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil comes from the Australian tree of the same name. The oil and leaves of the blue gum or Australian fever variety of eucalyptus tree is specifically used for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, the oil was used by Aborigines, but its popularity spread to China, Europe, and beyond. It was used in England as far back as the 1800s.^[1,2]

Uses

Eucalyptus oil is used topically for skin problems. It's ingested for the treatment of respiratory problems and other illnesses. The oil is also used as an ingredient.

Topical

• Rubs

• Insect repellent

• Joint pain

• Genital herpes

• Nasal congestion

Topical and by mouth

• Pain (respiratory)

• Swelling (respiratory)

Ingest

• Coughs

• Bronchitis

• Sinus problems

• Asthma

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Respiratory infections

• Expectorant

• Cancer

• Plaque and gum disease

• Arthritis

• Mouthwash

Ingredient

• Fragrance

• Toothpaste

• Cough drops

• Lozenges

• Linimen

• Ointment

• Mouthwash

• Antiseptic

• Sealer and solvent for dental procedures

Effectiveness

Eucalyptus oil may help with inflammation, pain, and asthma.

Eucalyptus oil seems to work as an expectorant and antiseptic.^[2] And, it may help with inflammation, pain, and asthma.^[1]

There isn't enough evidence to recommend eucalyptus oil for:

• Asthma

• Stuffy nose

• Burns

• Ulcers

• Acne

• Inflammation

• Diabetes

• Bladder diseases

• Bleeding gums

• Fever

• Flu

• Lack of appetite

• Arthritis pain

• Liver problem

• Gallbladder problems

Medication interactions

Talk to your doctor before taking any medications or herbs with eucalyptus oil, including:

• Those changed and processed in the liver

• Diabetes medications

• Hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing herbs

• 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)

Recommended dose

There is no recommended daily allowance (RDA) for eucalyptus oil. An appropriate dose depends on numerous scenarios, namely gender, age, and health status. There's also too little scientific evidence at this time to establish a proper dosages. Before starting a new dietary or topical supplement, talk to your healthcare provider.

Safety concerns and side effects

• Eucalyptus oil must be diluted before it's used orally or topically.^[2] If used at full strength, or 3.5mL, the oil can be fatal.

• Do not give eucalyptus-containing cough drops to children younger than 6 years old.^[2]

• Do not apply eucalyptus oil, salve or chest rub, on the face or nose of anyone under 2 years old. Ask your pediatrician before using eucalyptus steam therapy.^[2] However, children may consume eucalyptus as an ingredient in food.

• Do not use eucalyptus oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Stop using eucalyptus at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

• Talk to your doctor before using eucalyptus oil if you have asthma, liver disease, kidney disease, low blood pressure, or are prone to having seizures.^[2]

Toxicity

Seek medical help immediately if you experience these signs or symptoms of eucalyptus poisoning:

• Dizziness

• Small pupils

• Trouble breathing

• Stomach pain and/or burning

• Muscle weakness

• Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea

Considerations

Eucalyptol, the chemical processed from the eucalyptus oil and used for medicinal purposes, is safe when ingested orally and can be taken for up to 12 weeks.

Where to buy

Although we don't sell eucalyptus oil, you can compare quality and price of a variety of brands here at PricePlow.