A plant known and loved not only for its beauty but also for its aromatic and balsamic properties.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is a plant that is part of the Myrtaceae family in which its oil obtained is useful for coughs, colds and sinusitis. The name eu (well) and kalypto (hide) derives from the Greek and indicates the characteristic of the flowers that remain hidden by their petals making them appear the inflorescences as nice groups of duvets with colors ranging from white to fuchsia.
Its scent is fresh, sparkling, balsamic and citrusy that is good for the body and mind.
THE USE OF EUCALYPTUS OIL
Mainly used during the winter, eucalyptus-based essential oil is a natural remedy thanks to its balsamic, fluidifying and expectorant virtues. Precisely for this strong aromatic scent it helps to relieve seasonal problems of the nose and throat by freeing and favoring the breath.
Keep in mind that it is a colorless oil but over time it tends to turn yellow. This is why it must be kept away from sources of light and heat.
PROPERTY'
This essential oil has properties that make it the ideal ally of the respiratory system. Thanks to its balsamic aroma, it helps to decongest the mucous membranes of the airways, allowing you to breathe better. This effect is due to the high content of eucalyptol, an organic compound with an expectorant action, and the presence of monoterpenes which are substances with a strong balsamic action.
It is often used in aromatherapy in diffusers or humidifiers to purify the air. It allows to reduce the irritation of the respiratory tract thus facilitating the expulsion of mucus.
Also recommended in periods of intense work and study because it stimulates concentration and counteracts laziness.
NATURAL REMEDIES
- Purify the air: add 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil into the diffuser along with lavender essential oil (3 drops) and lemon essential oil (3 drops)
- Cold or Sinusitis: boil the water in a bowl, add 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil and 1 drop of lemon essential oil to it. Once the water has reached the desired temperature, you will need to place your face on the basin so that you can breathe in the vapors. To prevent the caloe from dispersing, the advice is to cover the head with a towel for at least 10 minutes (taking breaks every 2/3 minutes).
- Temple massage: by combining 15 ml of sweet almond oil, 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil and 3 of lavender essential oil , a compound is created for massaging the temples and forehead in case of headache.
HISTORICAL CURIOSITY
The first to discover the remarkable properties of eucalyptus were the native Australians. They considered it a sort of panacea for treating malaria fever and as a disinfectant. In fact, they used the leaves to prepare poultices to apply on wounds.
In Europe, however, it was used to combat coughs, bronchitis, asthma and flu. Many doctors used eucalyptus to reduce body temperature for its tissue cooling capacity.