Eucalyptus, a vast genus encompassing over 600 species of towering trees and shrubs, belongs to the myrtle family and is native to Australia, Tasmania, and nearby islands. Commonly recognized as the gum tree in Australia, eucalypti exhibit rapid growth, often soaring to impressive heights of around 90 meters and boasting a girth of 7.5 meters. Among these, the silver leaf eucalyptus is noted for bearing substantial fruit, measuring about 4-5 cm.
The leaves of the eucalypti serve as a widely embraced and effective ingredient in herbal remedies for colds and flu. Beyond this, these leaves find diverse applications as bath additives, tea ingredients, components in massage oils, and elements in potpourri blends.
# Treats dry skinThe eucalypti leaf plays a role by increasing its ceramide content. It helps retain moisture in the skin. Increasing the ceramide compound forms a skin barrier. This protecting layer may improve dry skin and dandruff.
# PainkillerThe eucalyptus essential oil consists of anti-inflammatory substances such as limonene and cineole which act as pain relievers. Inhaling the oil may decrease and relieve pain. A South Korean studied the effects of aromatherapy on pain and depression. It included eucalyptus and other essential oils. It concluded that aromatherapy has a great impact on decreasing pain and depression levels.
# Dental careChewing gums which consist of eucalyptus can keep dental plaque, dental bleeding, and gingivitis away. Eucalyptus leaves contain high amounts of macrocarpa C and ethanol. They are associated with lower chances of bacteria affecting teeth from cavities and gum diseases. It is very commonly used in products such as mouthwash and other oral care products.
# Promotes relaxationResearches suggest that eucalyptus is believed to decrease symptoms of stress. Inhale eucalyptus oil for approximately 30 minutes has a significant impact. Specially on lowering the blood pressure levels of patients after knee surgery, saying that it has a calming effect.
# Relieves cold symptomsBeing a natural anti-inflammatory agent, eucalyptus is commonly used as a remedy to treat cold and cough. Research suggests that it can decrease congestion of mucus and expand the bronchi and bronchioles of the lungs. It Is also found to decrease cough frequency and headaches by decreasing inflammation. It also works great to help improve asthma symptoms.
# Rich in antioxidantsEucalyptus leaves, if consumed in the form of tea, are considered a great source of antioxidants. It consists of flavonoids that lower the risk of heart diseases, certain types of cancers, and dementia. Eucalyptus leaves contain neuroprotective properties which guard against oxidative stress.
# Immunity boosterIn the presence of germs, eucalyptus oil is a highly promising compound as it increases the body’s white blood cells. It is said to enhance the immune system. Researchers suggest that eucalyptus oil could enhance the immune system’s phagocytic process. Here the immune system destroys foreign bodies.