One of the fastest growing evergreen trees this herb is native to Australia and Tasmania. It has an aromatic smell and is nicknamed the "big fever beater." Its volatile oil is called Eucalyptol oil and evidence shows it is useful in fighting microbial infections and effective as an antiseptic.
Algerians have use this herb to fight malaria and as a cleanser. Oil is used in steam purifiers to destroy germs and bacteria and steam inhalant during influenza and flu season. Cineole is the ingredient used for combating bad breath, spasms and killing bacterial and fungal infections. Euglobulin is another ingredient in Eucalyptus used for soothing inflammation and for fainting spells due to its aromatic smell.
Eucalyptus comes in vapor rub mixed with other decongestants for nasal and bronchial congestion and is also available as cough drops and mouthwash to help loosen and expectorate mucus or phlegm. It is said to be good for soothing throat inflammation. It also comes in liniments to be used externally for sore muscles, ache & pains, bruises and infected wounds.
The oil, combined with lavender, pine and sage is used to make a decongestant bath that helps not only relieve congestion but reduce fever. If you try this decongestant bath make sure you drink plenty of water and as an added treat drink an antioxidant tea while relaxing in the bath. |
