Eucalyptus oil is one of the best essential oils you will ever come across. The oil is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. Over the years, eucalyptus has been used for medicinal properties that help to deal with coughs, colds and sinus congestion. However, the oil can also come in handy in different ways.
Here are some uses of eucalyptus oil for your skin and health.
1. Deals with Acne
Eucalyptus oil helps to reduce oil production and gets rid of acne bacteria. You can also use the oil to treat cysts, cold sores and boils. Beauty: How To Take Care Of Acne Prone Skin
How to use the oil
- Mix seven drops of eucalyptus oil and three tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel in a container.
- Apply the mixture to the spots, or you can also use it as a moisturizer.
2. Helps to Fight Dandruff and Nourish the Scalp
The eucalyptus oil’s anti-fungal properties help deal with yeast-like fungus, which is the leading cause of dandruff. The oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe scalp irritation, and promote healthy roots and hair growth. Hair Care: Simple Home Remedies For Dandruff
How to use the oil
- Mix two to four drops of the oil with one or two tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and wait 20 minutes, then rinse.
- You can also mix four drops of eucalyptus oil with two tablespoons of Jojoba oil, massage into the scalp and leave for 20 minutes.
3. Promotes Good Dental Hygiene
Eucalyptus oil is an anti-bacterial that effectively deals with plaque and bacteria that causes gum disease and tooth decay. Regular use of the oil can also ensure you do not struggle with mouth odour.
How to use the oil
- Add one or two drops of the oil to a glass of water, gargle and spit it out.
4. Helps Wounds to Heal
Eucalyptus oil’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help wounds heal faster and stay free of germs or infections.
How to use the oil
- Add ten drops of oil into a container or a spray bottle containing two cups of water.
- Use a ball of cotton wool or a clean cloth to wipe the wound twice a day gently.
5. Clears Sinuses and Treats Flu Symptoms
Eucalyptus oil is the go-to oil when dealing with the flu or struggling with sinuses. It contains antioxidants that help to loosen up congestion and reduce mucus. It also works well in bringing down fever.
How to use the oil
- You can apply the oil as a chest or body rub for flu.
- Add one or two drops of oil to a small bowl of warm water for the sinuses. Cover your head with a towel and stand a few inches away from the bowl since eucalyptus oil has a strong scent.
- Close your eyes as you breathe in the vapour for 10 minutes.
6. Effective Anti-bacterial Cleaner
Using eucalyptus oil around the house will keep your floors and surfaces germ-free and smelling fresh.
How to use the oil
- Add a teaspoon of eucalyptus oil to the bucket of water you intend to use to mop the floor.
- For surfaces, mix half a cup of white vinegar with one cup of hot water and six drops of eucalyptus oil in a container or a spray bottle.
7. Relieves Joint Pains
Eucalyptus oil works wonders to soothe sore muscles and joint pains thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
How to use the oil
- Mix one or two drops of the oil with a carrier oil of your choice and apply the mixture to the sore area while massaging it.
8. Helps to Relieve Sunburn
Eucalyptus oil helps to relieve pain and soothe burning skin because of its anti-inflammatory benefits. This makes it the best solution for treating sunburns.
How to use the oil
- Mix two to four drops of the oil, one teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel and two cups of water in a container or spray bottle.
- Spray or use cotton wool to apply the mixture all over the skin.
9. Soothes Insect Bites
The oil’s ability to heal also extends to insect bites. Eucalyptus oil contains antiseptic benefits that relieve swelling and redness caused by bug bites and stings.
How to use the oil
- Add two to three drops of the oil to a cotton ball and apply the oil gently to the affected area.
10. Treats Fungal Infections
Packed with anti-fungal properties, eucalyptus oil can be quite effective when dealing with fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm and toenail infections. Health: Home Remedies For Athlete’s Foot
How to use the oil
- Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with one or two teaspoons of coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
11. Clears Your Mind
Like many essential oils, eucalyptus oil improves brain function and helps to improve your concentration levels.
How to use the oil
- Diffuse five drops of eucalyptus oil or regularly scatter a few drops of oil around the house or the office.
12. Effective Insect and Rodent Repellant
Eucalyptus oil is a natural insect and rodent repellant. The scent of the oil keeps them away, making your home clean and bug-free.
How to use the oil
- Add ten drops of oil to two cups of water to a spray bottle or a container.
- Stir the mixture and spray or pour a few droplets on areas where the insects or rodents are likely to be around the house.
Side Effects and Precautions
If you have any health condition, consult a doctor before using the oil. It is also important to note that eucalyptus oil is a very strong essential oil, so make sure you dilute it well with water or carrier oils. Once you have diluted the oil, you can do a patch test to make sure that your skin has no reactions to the oil.
If you experience any side effects, stop using the oil and seek medical attention.
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