This content was updated for accuracy and relevance on November 10th, 2020

An evergreen plant native to Australia, eucalyptus has long been used in medicinal treatment by societies the worldover, including the Greeks, Chinese and Europeans. 

The eucalyptus plant has a host of powerful properties that makes it an ideal essential oil when you’re feeling congested and under the weather. 

But what are the specific Eucalyptus oil benefits and uses? Let’s find out. 

Eucalyptus

The primary uses of Eucalyptus essential oil are diffusion and topical.

Today, there are more than 700 different eucalyptus plant species ^[1] in circulation, the most common of which is Eucalyptus globulus. Also known as blue gum, this tree is the primary source of Eucalyptus essential oil globally. 

To make Eucalyptus essential oil, the leaves of the gum tree must undergo a distillation process. The end result is a clear liquid sap that has a sweet, medicinal, woodsy aroma. Like other popular essential oils, they must be distilled before use, especially if your bottle is 100% pure Eucalyptus.  
 

Eucalyptus Benefits

While certain strains of Eucalyptus may differ, most contain the same beneficial components, including:

• 1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol) 

• Terpineol

• Limonene

This robust profile is what makes it an effective and multipurpose essential oil for a variety of different uses, such as:

1. Alleviate Cold And Respiratory Problems 

Do you have a stuffy nose? Is it difficult to sleep because you keep coughing or you have a sore throat? 

Eucalyptus extract is regularly used as an ingredient in popular decongestants and cough aids. A study on the plant’s ^[2] interaction with immune response concluded that, “Monoterpenoid components of aromatic constituents of Eucalyptus essential oil are traditionally used as analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic remedies and are commercially available for assisting the common cold and other symptoms of respiratory infections.” 

When Eucalyptus essential oil is diffused and then inhaled, the oil reacts positively with the mucous membranes. It’s pleasant aroma can provide several benefits, including:

• Loosen phlegm

• Clear nasal congestion

• Reduce lung irritation 

Basically, its anti-inflammatory property allows you to breathe deeply once again. 
 

2. Relieve Sore Muscles And Aching Joints

Do you get exercised-induced inflammation in your muscles and joints?

Although it's your body’s natural response to being tested, inflammation can cause discomfort that makes it difficult to train or even go about your day-to-day activities. Compounds within Eucalyptus essential oil have anti-inflammatory properties ^[3] that support a faster, more effective recovery.

If your muscles and joints get sore after a workout, applying Eucalyptus essential oil topically can help soothe discomfort. Simply, mix with a carrier oil and massage the aromatherapy mixture into the impacted area (using a circular motion).  

 
3. Boost Your Immune System 

Your immune system helps you recover or fight off injury, sickness and disease. So, why wouldn’t you want to do everything in your power to bolster it? 

Eucalyptus essential oil has natural antibacterial properties that stimulate the immune system response. The previously mentioned study ^[4] discovered that, “Eucalyptus oil extract is able to implement the innate cell-mediated immune response, providing scientific support for an additional use of this plant extract.” 

Eucalyptus can enhance your natural phagocytic response to pathogens such as:

• Bacteria

• Foreign particles

• Viruses 

Want to give your immune system an instant boost? 

Simply put Eucalyptus essential oil in your diffuser and let it run as you prepare for sleep.  

 
4. Reduce And Clean Cuts, Rashes And Burns 

Eucalyptus was originally used by Australian aborigines ^[5] as a home remedy for rashes and to treat wounds and fungal infections. 

A 2017 study ^[6] found that Eucalyptus and Rosemary essential oils were, “Able to enhance the healing of skin wounds.” It has antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities that make it ideal for dealing with:

• Cuts

• Scrapes

• Burns

• Rashes

• Blemishes

Additionally, since it has antioxidant qualities, it can help promote healthy skin care in a number of ways, such as:

• Reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging

• Promote an even skin tone

• Give the skin a fresh and healthy glow

Before you apply Eucalyptus essential oil to your face, be sure to dilute it appropriately using our dilution chart.  

What's The Difference In Edens Garden Essential Oils?

The difference in our best types of Eucalyptus oils really comes down to their aromas. 

For instance, six of our favorites are:

• Eucalyptus- globulus – Our original Eucalyptus essential oil is the most popular and well known of all Eucalyptus leaf oils. It has a medicinal, vibrant and refreshing aroma that cools and soothes, thanks to its high cineole content. This variation blends well with other oils such as Frankincense, Peppermint, Lavender, Lime, Lemongrass Tea Tree and Rosemary essential oil. 
• Eucalyptus- blue – A subspecies of Eucalyptus- globulus, Eucalyptus- blue has an aroma that is very cool, refreshing and medicinal. One whiff may help open sinuses and clear airways.
• Eucalyptus- radiata – Eucalyptus- radiata oil has a softer punch, with more cool, citrusy notes. But it’s perfect for users who want to breathe deeply, or simply wish to support their general wellness.
• Eucalyptus- smithii – This variety of Eucalyptus contains less 1,8-cineole. This reduces its aroma. As the most mellow and soft of all the Eucalyptus varieties, Eucalyptus- smithii is perfect for individuals who have sensitive skin or don’t want an overpowering aroma.
• Lemon Eucalyptus – Lemon Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the eucalyptus tree and has very similar therapeutic qualities to the original Eucalyptus oil, but with a sweeter aroma. This version blends well with oils such as Patchouli and Cedarwood. 
• Eucalyptus Cardamom Synergy Blend – If you want an essential oil blend that improves inhalation and uplifts the spirit, Eucalyptus Cardamom Synergy Blend is exactly what you’re looking for. This is one of our favorite Eucalyptus diffuser blends because of its medicinal and refreshing aroma, which can support overall health and vitality.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil Wrap Up

Whether you use it for aromatherapy or apply topically, Eucalyptus essential oil has myriad benefits. It can help:

• Alleviate cold and respiratory problems

• Fight inflammation 

• Support healthy skin care

• Promote your immune system response 

• Stop insects from bugging you 

Looking for a way to support your general health, wellness and vitality? We’re here to help. 
 

1. Euclid. Species Index. https://apps.lucidcentral.org/euclid/text/entities/index.htm
2. NCBI. Stimulatory effect of Eucalyptus essential oil on innate cell-mediated immune response.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2374764/
3. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of essential oils of Eucalyptus. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874103003131
4. NCBI. Stimulatory effect of Eucalyptus essential oil on innate cell-mediated immune response.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2374764/
5. University of Maryland Medical Center. Eucalyptus. https://naturalingredient.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/Eucalyptus-University-of-Maryland-Medical-Center.pdf
6. NCBI. Essential oil-loaded lipid nanoparticles for wound healing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5747963/