Obsessed with eucalyptus oil

I’ll admit it, I am obsessed with eucalyptus oil!

It is one of my favourite essential oils, not just because it smells fantastic, but it actually has so many uses.

Eucalyptus oil is made from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, native to Australia. In fact there are more than 700 different species of eucalyptus in the world which produce at least 500 types of essential oils.

It has been used in Australia for hundreds of years dating back to Indigenous Australians who infused the leaves for traditional medicines to treat body pains, fever, sinus congestions and colds. By the 1800s surgeons were using it as an antiseptic during operations and eventually it was used in most hospitals, specifically to clean urinary catheters.

The many benefits of this oil include antibacterial properties, pain relief, dental health (through the antibacterial ability to fight against tooth decay) and stimulating immune responses.

Because of these benefits there are so many versatile ways to use it. Here is a list of ways eucalyptus can help clean, freshen your environment and assist in good health:

Clearing the airways (Chest rub)

Because of its strong aroma and ability to reduce inflammation of the respiratory track I use it as a chest rub to help clear the airways. To make the chest rub, mix a few drops of the oil it with a carrier oil (like coconut) and rub it into your chest.

Jet lag

There is nothing like jet lag to ruin your holiday! Eucalyptus oil can help wake the body up with its beautiful and strong aroma. Just dab a few dots on your neck and wrists, where you would normally apply perfume and you will be ready to hit the ground running in no time.

Scalp cleanse

Mixing eucalyptus oil with coconut oil can help relive itchy skin and dandruff that may be irritating you. Just mix a few drops with coconut (or olive) oil and massage it into your scalp to cleanse and refresh.

Laundry

Adding a couple of teaspoons of eucalyptus oil to your washing will make every load come out not only germ free but also cleaner because if the antibacterial properties it posses.

Multipurpose spray

Eucalyptus oil makes a great, harsh chemical free surface cleaner. All you need to do is mix half a cup of vinegar, a cup of water, a good squirt of liquid detergent and a small capful of eucalyptus oil. Pour into spray bottle and spray and wipe on any surface!

Air freshener

In a spray bottle, add 2 cups of water, half a teaspoon of vodka and a quarter of a teaspoon of eucalyptus oil. Shake and then spray where you like and let the sweet aromas of eucalyptus fill your home!

Remove/prevent mould

Just mix 5oml of eucalyptus oil with a litre of water will help to keep mould at bay.  This mix can be used to clean all bathroom surfaces and is safe in drains.

Pest deterrent

If you’ve got problems with ants or cockroaches, this is a great chemical-free approach to keep them at bay. Wet a cotton ball with a few drops of eucalyptus oil and put it where the critters are. Easy!

Do you have any ideas to add?