"Back to Basics" - Top Ten Single Oils - Eucalyptus

Today is the last day of my "Back to Basics" series for single oils. Next week I will start talking about the top oil blends.



Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus trees, sometimes referred to as Gum Trees, are indigenous to Australia. The oil (Eucalyptus radiate) is extracted from the leaves through steam distillation. That main chemical components are Eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol, which clear airways and is the main ingredients in mouthwashes and cough suppressants.*

The primary benefits of using eucalyptus oil are promoting relaxation and clear breathing, cleansing the skin, and as a mouth wash to promote oral health.

Eucalyptus can be used either topically or aromatically, but NEVER internally. This oil should always be diluted when used, regardless of age.

Eucalyptus leaf

Health Concerns:*

Bronchitis: In patients with chronic bronchitis, rosemary, basil, fir, and eucalyptus oils were found to demonstrate an antioxidant effect. Lavender was found to promote normalization of lipids levels (Siurin et al., 1997).

Links:

Doterra Product Page: Eucalyptus
Buy Eucalyptus here

Research:

Boyle, R., McLean, S., Foley, W., Davies, N. W., Peacock, E. J., & Moore, B. (2001). Metabolites of dietary 1,8-cineole in the male koala (Phascolrctos cinereus). Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Toxicology & Pharmacology, 129(4), 385 - 395. doi:10.1016/S1532-04556(01)00214-9

Keszei, A., Brubaker, C. L., Carter, R. Kollner, T., Degenhardt, J., & Foley, W. J. (2010). Functional and evolutionary relationship between terpene syntheses from Australia Myrtaceae. Photochemistry, 71(8), 844 - 852. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2010.03.013

Siurin, S. A. (1997). Effects of essential oil on lipid peroxidation and lipid metabolism in patients with chronic bronchitis. Klinicheskaia Meditsina, 75(10), 43 - 45. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9490339

CAUTIONS: Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.