Eucalyptus Leaves are from an evergreen tree native to Australia and Tasmania. It is also called a Gum Tree. It has been a traditional Australian aboriginal medicine for centuries, the aborigines called it ‘Kino’ they first used it to treat headaches, fevers and colds, then they began to use it as a poultice for festering wounds, inflammations and rheumatism. All species have leaves that are covered in oil glands, from which the majority of the health benefits are derived. It wasn’t until the late 18th to early 19th century that eucalyptus and its benefits were first brought to Europe when a French botanist, for Jacques de Labillardière, collected specimens in Tasmania in 1799. When it first reached European shores it was known as ‘Sydney Peppermint’. Eucalyptus was first used as an antiseptic by surgeons in the early 19th century; it was used during operations and for cleaning rooms and equipment. The leaves can be used to flavour lozenges and sweets for sore throats, they can also be used for their insect repellent properties in sachets and pot pourri, a decoction of the leaves can be added to hot water to clean surfaces and floors. The powdered leaf can be used as a natural insecticide in the garden. Add the leaves to baths to help ease the systems of colds and flu. A decoction can be added to liniments and rubs for easing painful joints and gardening aches.
Some of the best health benefits of eucalyptus includes its ability to
- boost respiratory health
- strengthen the immune system
- protect skin health
- ease tension and anxiety
- lower blood sugar
- eliminate inflammation
- and fight against bacterial infection.
Eucalyptus tea is very popular for curing a range of medical conditions, and the leaves themselves are important sources of food for certain animal species in Australia and New Zealand, koalas being the most well-known consumers.
- Eucalyptus leaves and oil have been used for generations as a cure-all for respiratory issues, particularly in removing catarrh from the respiratory tracts. The active ingredients in eucalyptus leaves act as expectorants, helping to remove excess phlegm and mucus from the sinuses and respiratory tracts, eliminating the natural environment for bacteria and other pathogens to multiply and spread. In terms of bronchitis, the common cold, and even flu symptoms, eucalyptus leaves and extracts are often recommended for people looking for herbal or natural remedies for those common conditions.
- The powerful effects of eucalyptus tea are widely studied, and aside from its direct impact on the respiratory system, eucalyptus is recommended to protect the body from a wide variety of bacterial infections, including E. coli and candida albicans, the latter of which can cause yeast infections. If your immune system is compromised by another illness or as the result of an injury or fatigue, eucalyptus tea can act as a natural booster for your immunity
- When people begin to feel the pressure of the modern world mounting, so many people turn to pharmaceutical solutions, but there are a wide range of other natural remedies, including eucalyptus. The natural sedative and soothing effects of eucalyptus can be employed for many reasons, but its tea is specifically recommended for those suffering from chronic stress. Stress hormones in the body can wreak havoc on your metabolism and general health, so reducing those potentially dangerous stress hormones and easing mental tension can be a wonderful side effect of a well-brewed cup of eucalyptus tea
- The natural antibacterial properties of eucalyptus make it ideal for protecting skin health as well. Rubbing its leaves on the skin can work as a quick fix, but drinking eucalyptus tea or utilizing eucalyptus oil on irritated or infected skin works much faster and more effectively. However, it is important to note that eucalyptus oil is extremely strong and can be toxic if consumed in its undiluted form. Always use carrier oils and avoid consumption when using eucalyptus oil on the skin
- Although the exact chemical pathway is unknown, research has shown that brewing eucalyptus leaves into tea can be an effective preventative measure or treatment for diabetes. Whether you have already developed the condition or are actively establishing a lifestyle to prevent the onset of diabetes, drinking 1-2 cups of eucalyptus tea each day can be a great strategy. It is recommended to speak to your doctor before utilizing it in this way, as the blood sugar-lowering ability of the tea can be dangerous depending on what type of diabetes you have or are at risk for
- Eucalyptus is a natural anti-inflammatory substance, so consuming its tea can do everything from ease aches and pains to protect the heart. Eucalyptus tea is often recommended for people who suffer from asthma, as well as arthritis and chronic muscle strain. If you suffer a mild injury, drink some eucalyptus tea and watch the pain fade away. By reducing inflammation in the blood vessels and arteries, it can also protect heart health and decrease the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis, thereby protecting you from heart attacks and strokes
To make eucalyptus tea, steep half a teaspoon in hot water for 15 minutes, then strain and reheat if necessary. Sweeten with honey. While the tea is considered safe, dosage should always be carefully monitored. Caution: If you suffer from gastrointestinal or liver disorders, or if you are pregnant, do not take eucalyptus internally. As always, research your herb thoroughly before using it.
Bronchitisor Sinus congestion can be eased by inhaling the steam from eucalyptus tea. Pour 1 quart of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves., cover to seal in the volatile oil, and steep for 5 minutes. Drape a towel over your head and shoulders to form a tent over the tea. close your eyes and for 10 minutes, breathe in the steam. Use this facial steam daily until your symptoms abate. Caution: Do not leave young children unattended with the hot tea! For sore throats make a cup of healing eucalyptus tea from equal parts of dried eucalyptus leaves and dried calendula flowers. The tannins in eucalyptus help reduce inflammation while calendula soothes. Let the tea cool, and then use it as a gargle 2 – 3 times a day until symptoms subside. Eucalyptus Tea Recipe for Head Colds: 1/2 ounce dried eucalyptus leaves; 1 ounce dried peppermint leaves; 1/2 ounce dried chamomile flowers. Use 1 teaspoon of this herbal mixture per cup of boiling water. Sweeten with honey to taste. These herbs are prescribed for their decongestant and expectorant effects. Eucalyptus is antiseptic, as well, and is very helpful for a head cold, sinus congestion and the flu.