Eucalyptus: The leaves that heal

Eucalyptus or Eucalyptus globulus is known for its beneficial properties in the respiratory system because it facilitates and frees breathing. It protects against sick viruses, strengthens the immune system and acts as a genetic tonic.
It is one of the tallest trees in the world. It is around 90 meters with small oval leaves. The trees are pruned so that the branches are more accessible.
Native to Australia and Tasmania, there are over 700 different species of eucalyptus but only 500 yield any type of essential oil and only 50 grow in the Mediterranean coastal countries. The essential oil used in aromatherapy is extracted from the Australian eucalyptus.
The parts of the tree that are used for therapeutic purposes are its long narrow leaves, which are collected in the months of June and July. Essential oil is produced from them, the smell of which is reminiscent of camphor. Eucalyptus oil has a strong antiseptic, expectorant and healing effect and at the same time has antipyretic and antispasmodic properties. It combines harmoniously with the essential oils of rosemary, lavender, marjoram, pine, cedar and lemon.
In pharmacies we will find tincture and essential oil of eucalyptus, as well as various ready-made preparations, such as massage oil, syrups, nasal sprays, lozenges for the throat, cosmetics, soaps and toothpastes. Especially eucalyptus oil, it is good to avoid buying it elsewhere, because it is expensive and it is common to adulterate it with white camphor, which is much cheaper.
Caution:
– The internal intake of eucalyptus should not exceed 2-3 weeks, because it can cause irritation to the kidneys.
- Its use is not recommended for hypertensives, because it raises the pressure, while it is prohibited for pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children.
– Eucalyptus oil, like all essential oils, must be dissolved in 1 spoon of base oil (e.g. almond oil, balsam oil) or in 1 spoon of alcohol (e.g. alcohol, tsipouro) before their application.

Which benefits us
– Eucalyptus oil is effective in treating the symptoms of the common cold. Soothes cough, liquefies phlegm, reduces fever and relieves sore throat. It is also indicated in cases of sinusitis, bronchitis and pharyngitis, while it has been proven to alleviate asthma attacks.
– Its antiseptic properties make it effective in inflammations of the urinary system (e.g. cystitis).
– It is used to treat gingivitis. In fact, Japanese researchers discovered that eucalyptus oil fights Streptococcus mutans, a microbe responsible for the appearance of tooth decay.
– Relieves muscle and joint pain and is recommended in cases of rheumatism and arthritis. It also stimulates blood circulation.
– Helps to heal wounds and minor burns.
– Contributes to the treatment of drowsiness, increases self-concentration and boosts the mood. Tip: For this purpose, it is good to combine it with lavender.
– It has a hypoglycemic effect. Tip: Diabetics should never consume it alone, but in combination with other herbs, which will be recommended by their pharmacist and if they have received the consent of their doctor.

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