Health, Lifestyle

4 Benefits of Eucalyptus Leaves

As I was sitting outside drinking my Eucalyptus tea this morning, I thought about sharing some of the amazing health benefits with you. Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree that’s widely used for its medicinal properties. Although, Eucalyptus can be used for many other reasons but more research needs to be done in order to claim that it’s actually working in that particular area.

(As you can see, I chose to blend mine with some peppermint leave)

Eucalyptus may relieve cold symptoms

Eucalyptus is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and it is widely used as a natural cold remedy and is a common ingredient in cold and cough products.

There is a main ingredient responsible for these properties in eucalyptus called eucalyptol, also known as cineole. Research has shown that eucalyptol relieves cold symptoms like cough frequency, nasal congestion, and headache by decreasing inflammation and mucus buildup, asthma and so much more.

However, if you are using eucalyptus oil,   any small amount can be considered as toxic. So, it’s best to consult with your doctor, especially if you’re taking some other medications that are not compatible with.

High in antioxidants

Although you cannot eat fresh, whole eucalyptus leaves, dried leaves can be made into tea. Be sure to choose a tea that’s labeled “eucalyptus leaves tea,” because it can be TOXIC to add eucalyptus essential oil to your tea.

In addition, eucalyptus tea contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may lower your risk of certain cancers, heart disease stress, and dementia.

Promote relaxation

Eucalyptus is widely believed to decrease symptoms of stress. If eucalyptus has the ability to decrease heart disease therefore it has its importance in decreasing stress as well. Stress is one of the leading cause of heard disease such as hypertension after all!  Also, the same eucalyptol component from the eucalyptus leaves has been found to possess anti-anxiety properties Want a nice calming effect on your body? Hanging some eucalyptus leaves in your shower can do the trick.

Natural insect repellent

Eucalyptus oil is a natural insect repellent, mainly due to its eucalyptol content once again.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention lists lemon eucalyptus oil  derived from the lemon eucalyptus tree as an approved and powerful bug repellant. Topical application is very effective at warding off mosquitoes and other biting insects for up to eight hours. So, before you go to that mountain trip, camping getaway, don’t forget to add one in your bag.

While eucalyptus leaves are generally recognized as safe, there are some serious health risks associated with consuming eucalyptus oil, as it can lead to toxicity in both adults and children. Again be sure to consult your healthcare provider.