When it comes to fighting bacteria and infections, and reducing inflammation, eucalyptus essential oil is the best of the best. The Aboriginal people of Australia have used eucalyptus leaves for centuries as a poultice to disinfect and cover wounds. To this day some medical doctors will use a solution of eucalyptus essential oil in surgical dressings.
Laboratory tests have shown eucalyptus essential oil to be a powerful antimicrobial agent, and its antiseptic qualities are often utilized to help heal and protect wounds from infection. It can also be used to assist in the treatment of skin infections for this same reason.
Eucalyptus essential oil is also utilized as a natural treatment/relief from colds and fevers because of its natural antiseptic qualities. As a testament of this, in North Africa eucalyptus trees have been planted to inhibit the spread of malaria- with success! If someone is suffering from congestion, a few drops of eucalyptus can be placed in a carrier oil of choice and rubbed on the chest for relief. In the case of fever, a light body spray can be made with a combination of eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils mixed with water to help reduce a heightened body temperature.
Eucalyptus essential oil is also a wonderful oil to use for soothing sore, tight, and bruised muscles. It is an anti-inflammatory and thus makes a great massage balm for sore and creaky joints as well. Eucalyptus is considered a vasodilator- meaning it increases healthy circulation throughout the body. From an aroma therapeutic standpoint this means that eucalyptus essential oil can be used to enhance cognitive function because it increases the amount of blood flow- i.e. nutrition- to the brain.
Below you will find a fun and useful multi-purpose DIY recipe for calming inflammation and increasing blood flow using eucalyptus essential oil:
You will need:
3-5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
1 medium sized bowl
1 cloth or compress pad
1 cup water
Directions:
Heat 1 cup water until it is hot but still bearable
Transfer hot water to bowl
Put 3-5 drops eucalyptus essential oil into hot water
Soak cloth in eucalyptus infused water
Wring out cloth, and place on affected area
Repeat as necessary
This recipe can be used for sore and inflamed muscles, itchy bug bites, scrapes and cuts, and to help relieve congestion. You can also use cold or lukewarm water if that suits you. Enjoy!