HEALING WITH EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL

The pungent oil of the eucalyptus tree has been exploited for centuries for its potent antiseptic and decongestant properties. Eucalyptus oil is distilled from the partially dried leaves and twigs of the blue gum eucalyptus tree. It has a pungent camphorous scent and blends well with other tree oils (such as cedarwood and pine) and other refreshing antiseptic oils, particularly lemon. It can be used in an oil burner to clear the air as, when burned, eucalyptus releases disinfectants. It can also be blended in a base oil (such as grapeseed or sweet almond oil) for use in massage of the face or body. It is often used in commercial cough sweets due to its soothing antiseptic and antiviral properties.

 

A Powerful Decongestant

Eucalyptus is well known for its ability to clear the head and sinuses and is especially effective as a steam inhalation. Its warming, drying properties are effective in treating respiratory disorders. It fights infections, reduces fevers and soothes inflammation of the respiratory tract. It also stimulates the nervous system, combatting tiredness and promoting concentration. Eucalyptus oil is excellent for use as a facial massage oil (when blended with a base oil) to clear sinus congestion but it is perhaps most widely used in a steam inhalation.

Steam Inhalation

A steam inhalation of eucalyptus oil is excellent for dispelling congestion.  Add 2-3 drops each of eucalyptus, lemon and pine essential oils to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and breathe in deeply.

Other Uses of Eucalyptus Oil

Relieve Muscle Pain:  The antiseptic action of eucalyptus makes it a versatile medicinal oil. Its warming, anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent pain reliever. Applied as a compress, eucalyptus soothes inflammation and can be used to relieve muscular aches and rheumatic pains. To treat sprains and strains, add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil and 5-6 drops of lavender oil to a cold compress and apply to the painful area.

Soothing Balm:  You can easily make your own soothing balm with eucalyptus at home. Melt a tablespoon of Vaseline by placing it in a bowl over a pan of hot water. Then add 6 drops of eucalyptus oil and 2 drops of peppermint oil. Leave to cool. You can rub a little of this balm under your nose to clear sinuses, especially at night. A little rubbed on your lips helps heal cold sores.

Ease Pain of Cystitis:  Due to its antiseptic properties, eucalyptus is very beneficial for treating infections, particularly of the urinary tract. Combat painful cystitis with a gentle daily massage over the lower back, abdomen and hips. To make your own soothing massage oil, measure out 25ml of sweet almond oil and add 4-5 drops of eucalyptus oil and 4-5 drops of neroli oil.

 

Uses of Eucalyptus in Complementary Therapies

A short facial massage with eucalyptus essential oil is always included at the end of both my Indian Head Massage and Hopi Ear Candles treatments. Or, if you are looking for a longer facial massage, why not try my Vitality Lift Facial Massage with eucalyptus oil instead of the usual rosa mosqueta oil? This is sure to clear your sinuses and nasal passages and leave you breathing much more freely. With winter just around the corner and the change in atmospheric pressure, many people start to experience congestion at this time of year, so November is an excellent time to try this wonderful facial massage!

  

Notes:

1.    All complementary therapy treatments mentioned in this article are available with Helen Shortland. Indian Head Massage (40 mins) is £22 and the Hopi Ear Candles treatment is £27. During November the half hour Vitality Lift Facial Massage with eucalyptus essential oil is available for £15.

2.    Eucalyptus essential oil is available from Little London Herbal Stores, 9 Kings Walk, Nottingham, NG1 2AE for £3.59. A wide range of base massage oils is also available. Or please visit website at www.all-ages-vitamins.co.uk

 

Helen Shortland is a Reiki Master Teacher, Meditation Teacher and Holistic Therapist based at Little London Herbal Stores on Kings Walk in Nottingham city centre. Please ring her on 07748 591690 to book a treatment or visit her website http://helenshortland.com for further information.