Top 10 Ways to Use Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, which is native to Australia. The tree is also commonly known as the gum tree and there are over 700 species of eucalyptus trees, many of which are used for their medicinal and therapeutic properties. The oil is extracted through the process of steam distillation and has been used for centuries for its various benefits. The indigenous people of Australia, the Aboriginals, have long used eucalyptus leaves for its medicinal properties, including for respiratory issues and wound healing. 

Today, eucalyptus oil is widely used around the world for a variety of purposes, including in aromatherapy, massage therapy, skincare, and cleaning products. In this post, we’ll go over the top 10 uses for eucalyptus oil!

Steam Inhalation- for respiratory support 

Eucalyptus essential oil is a popular choice for respiratory support due to its natural decongestant properties. When inhaled, the oil can help to clear the nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. Additionally, eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to soothe and protect the respiratory system.

To use, simply add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water, lean over the bowl, and inhale the steam to relieve sinus congestion and open up the airways.

Massage

Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil in massage therapy due to its various benefits. It can be added to massage oil or lotion and used in a variety of massage techniques to help promote relaxation and relieve tension. When applied topically and combined with a carrier oil, the oil can help to soothe sore muscles and joints. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. In addition, the oil has a cooling and refreshing sensation that can leave the skin feeling refreshed and invigorated.

The anti-inflammatory nature of eucalyptus oil helps in alleviating muscle pain and soreness, making it a popular choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It can also be used to relieve joint pain and stiffness, making it a useful oil for people with arthritis. The oil is known to improve blood circulation in the body, which can help in the healing process of muscles and joints.

To use in your massages, dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and use it for a soothing massage to help relax muscles and ease tension.

Shower Aromatherapy

Using eucalyptus oil in the shower for aromatherapy is a great way to start or end your day. The refreshing and invigorating scent of eucalyptus oil can help to clear your mind, promote relaxation, and boost your mood. The steam from the shower helps to release the aroma of the oil, making it a great way to enjoy its benefits.

To use eucalyptus oil in the shower, simply add a few drops of the oil to the bottom of the shower before getting in. As the water hits the oil, it will release the aroma and create a spa-like experience, helping to soothe your mind and body. You can also add other essential oils like lavender or peppermint to create a customized experience.

Using eucalyptus oil in the shower can also help to alleviate stress and anxiety. The refreshing scent can help to clear your mind and promote mental clarity, helping you to feel more focused and calm. It can also help to reduce stress levels, making it a great addition to your self-care routine.

To use in the shower, simply place a few drops of eucalyptus on the shower floor before taking a shower. The steam will release the aroma, providing an invigorating experience. 

Natural Disinfectant

Eucalyptus oil has become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural disinfectant due to its antimicrobial properties. The oil contains compounds like eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol that have been found to be effective against a wide range of bacteria and viruses. These properties make eucalyptus oil a great choice for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces around the home.

The natural disinfectant properties of eucalyptus oil make it an excellent alternative to the harsh and often toxic chemicals found in many commercial cleaning products. These chemicals can be harmful to the environment and can also be dangerous to people with sensitivities to chemicals. Using eucalyptus oil as a natural disinfectant is a more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution that is also safe for use around children and pets.

Eucalyptus oil can be used in a variety of ways to disinfect surfaces around the home. One of the simplest ways to use eucalyptus oil as a natural disinfectant is to add a few drops to a spray bottle filled with water or vinegar. This solution can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces like countertops, sinks, and floors. Simply spray the solution onto the surface and wipe it clean with a cloth.

Cold and Flu Relief

Eucalyptus oil is a popular choice for respiratory support and can be used as a natural remedy for cold and flu relief. The oil contains natural decongestant properties that can help to clear the nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. When inhaled, the oil can help to reduce coughing and promote clear breathing, making it easier to get through the day.

Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to soothe and protect the respiratory system. This can be especially helpful during cold and flu season when the immune system is under stress. By supporting the respiratory system and reducing inflammation, eucalyptus oil can help to alleviate symptoms like coughing, congestion, and sore throat.

My favorite way to use eucalyptus oil is to mix it with a carrier and rub it onto my chest to alleviate symptoms of colds and flus, such as congestion and cough.

Sinus and Headache Relief

The analgesic properties of eucalyptus oil can also help to ease headaches and migraines. Eucalyptus oil in particular can be used for scalp massages to relieve tension and promote relaxation. 

To use eucalyptus oil for headache relief and to release sinus pressure, you can add a few drops of the oil to a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and massage it into the temples and forehead. The cooling and refreshing sensation of the oil can help to ease tension and promote relaxation, which can be helpful in reducing the intensity of headaches.

Insect Repellent

Eucalyptus oil is a natural and effective insect repellent that has been used for centuries due to its strong scent and antimicrobial properties. The oil is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, a native of Australia, and has been used for medicinal and therapeutic purposes for centuries.

One of the many benefits of eucalyptus oil is its ability to repel insects like mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. The powerful odor of the oil can help to discourage insects from landing on your skin or biting you, making it a popular choice for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or gardening.

The antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus oil help to repel insects by preventing them from landing on or biting your skin. The oil contains natural compounds like eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol that have been found to be effective against a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes and ticks.

Create your DIY natural insect repellent by mixing eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and applying it to your skin before heading outdoors. 

DIY Chest Rub

Eucalyptus oil is a popular choice for use in chest rubs due to its natural decongestant properties. When applied topically and combined with a carrier oil, the oil can help to clear the nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. Additionally, eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to soothe and protect the respiratory system.

By incorporating eucalyptus oil into a chest rub, you can help to alleviate congestion and promote relaxation, making it a great option for those suffering from coughs, colds, and other respiratory issues.

Here’s my DIY recipe for chest rubs:

Chest Rub

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• 1/4 cup cocoa butter

• 2 tablespoons beeswax

• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

Put all the ingredients (except the essential oils) in a double boiler. Remove from the heat once melted. Let cool slightly, then add in essential oils. Store in an airtight container. Rub on chest as needed.

Congestion Diffuser Blend

In your diffuser

• 5 drops eucalyptus

• 3 drops lemon

• Top with water

Diffuse in bedroom at night when feeling congested.

Foot Soak

One of the many benefits of eucalyptus oil is its ability to combat foot odor and soothe tired feet. Foot odor can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria and fungus. Eucalyptus oil has natural deodorizing properties that can help to neutralize odors and leave your feet smelling fresh and clean.

In addition to its deodorizing properties, eucalyptus oil also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet. By adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a foot bath, you can create a relaxing and therapeutic experience for your feet.

To use eucalyptus oil in a foot bath, simply add a few drops of the oil to warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. The warm water and the refreshing scent of the oil can help to relax your muscles and alleviate tension. The oil can also help to reduce inflammation and soothe sore and tired feet.

Here are my top safety tips for eucalyptus oil:

• Not kid safe (10+)

• Dilute to <5% for topical use

• Avoid topical use if nursing

• Not cat or dog safe

• Avoid in cases of epilepsy

• Not cat or dog safe 

• Avoid use if reaction occurs

• Not meant for internal use

Shop eucalyptus oil here!

Until next time,

XO Liv