Contents
Eucalyptus forests grow mostly in Australia, but people have long appreciated this plant and now eucalyptus is grown on almost all continents of the Earth. The leaves contain tannins and organic acids. The aroma of eucalyptus is very strong, recognizable, with notes of resin. The essential oil, which is rich in leaves, is completely preserved even in them, even if the leaves are dried.
The Australian Aborigines were the first to use eucalyptus in the treatment. With the help of leaves, they relieved inflammation from insect bites, treated malaria and fever. Over time, eucalyptus treatment has become more widespread.
Medicinal properties of eucalyptus leaves
It is difficult to overestimate the healing properties of eucalyptus. They are so unique that even ardent supporters of traditional medicine cannot deny them. It is used for the preparation of medicines that have excellent antiseptic properties.
In addition to antimicrobial and disinfectant effects, these drugs also have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and sedative effects, so they are excellent in the treatment of a variety of diseases.
Eucalyptus leaves contraindications
Despite the almost magical properties of this plant, there are still some limitations:
- In any form, eucalyptus is not used in the treatment of children under 1 year old.
- Refrain from preparations with eucalyptus if you have an individual intolerance or hypersensitivity to it. Consult your doctor, start with small dosages, watch your condition.
- With caution, eucalyptus should be used with increased secretion of the stomach.
- Avoid contact with essential oils and alcohol tinctures on mucous membranes, especially in the eyes.
Application of eucalyptus leaves
Decoctions and inhalations based on eucalyptus treat respiratory diseases, various types of bronchitis, colds, flu, laryngitis and tracheitis. In addition, eucalyptus helps with bronchial asthma, acute respiratory and ENT diseases. For example, there are nasal drops and sprays based on eucalyptus essential oil.
- Rinsing the mouth with infusion is prescribed for stomatitis, gingivitis and other inflammatory diseases.
- For centuries, people have used essential oil from the leaves and bark of eucalyptus as a remedy for fever and as part of warming anti-inflammatory ointments for the joints.
- Purulent wounds and ulcers are washed with a decoction, added to baths for frostbite, and burns are treated.
- Drinking a decoction of eucalyptus leaves is recommended for pain in the intestines and gastritis with low acidity.
- Douching with a strong decoction of eucalyptus is used in gynecology for complex therapy for infectious and inflammatory diseases.
The aroma of eucalyptus is magnificent in combination with juniper, lavender. By mixing the essential oils of these plants, you can use them for inhalation or take warm baths. If you are a lover of baths and saunas, then add essential oil to hot water and steam a eucalyptus broom – colds will bypass you.
Eucalyptus is used in the treatment of colds, usually brewing hot drinks based on it with the addition of mint, sometimes honey. Such a drink has a warming and invigorating effect, so it is very pleasant to use it in the autumn-winter period.
Infusion for a bath
1 st. pour a spoonful of dry eucalyptus leaves with a glass of water. Bring to a boil in an enamel pot and reduce heat to low. After 45 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and wrap with a towel. Pour into glass jars or bottles.
Infusion store in a dark place. Sometimes a little alcohol is added to the bottle for long-term storage.
Home Inhalations
2 tsp dry leaves pour a glass of hot water, bring to a boil. Boil no longer than 2 minutes to retain maximum nutrients. Insist 20 – 30 minutes. For inhalation, dilute 1 teaspoon of infusion in 200 ml of water.
Inhalations should be carried out 3-4 times a day. Do not overdo it – too frequent use of eucalyptus inhalations can lead to dryness of the nasal mucosa.
Reviews of doctors about eucalyptus leaves
Alena Paretskaya, pathophysiologist, immunologist:
– Eucalyptus leaf is an excellent remedy for the treatment of various pathologies of the respiratory system, as well as the fight against stress and the effects of free radicals. The composition of the eucalyptus leaf contains antioxidants, unique in their composition, of the flavonoid group, which prevent oxidative stress and free radical oxidation.
Various decoctions, infusions and tinctures exhibit a bactericidal, fungicidal and antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effect. They are actively used for therapeutic and prophylactic inhalations, including for the treatment of infections of the upper respiratory tract.