Eucalyptus benefits the respiratory system and is a great expectorant for those who are suffering from congestion, pneumonia or the flu. You can enjoy its aroma by diffusing Eucalyptus into the air. Eucalyptus is cooling, stimulating and penetrating.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
The Eucalyptus tree is one of the largest trees in the world and can grow
to heights well over 250 feet. There
are hundreds of species, of which Eucalyptus globulus is the most
common, and all are native to Australia. The tree is planted in hot, swampy parts
of the world to help drain swampland and to discourage the proliferation of
malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Highly-aromatic Eucalyptus is also used in sachets and pet collars
to repel fleas. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the leaves, twigs
and oil (resulting from steam distillation of the leaves). Eucalyptus
was first used by Australian Aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for
water in the dry Outback, but also used the leaves as a remedy for fevers.
In traditional Australian Aboriginal medicine, the leaves were used in poultices
for any type of wound and inflammation. Eucalyptus was introduced to the
West
in the nineteenth century by the director of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, and
cultivation of the tree spread in southern Europe and North America. During
the last century, American physicians used Eucalyptus oil to disinfect medical
equipment and wounds. They also recommended a steam inhalation of Eucalyptus
vapors to help treat whooping cough, bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. Eucalyptin,
which provides the
spicy aroma, loosens mucus, making it easier to expel. Eucalyptus is considered to have the following properties: antibacterial,
antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, antispasmodic, astringent, bronchial-dilating,
circulatory stimulating, decongestant, diaphoretic, disinfectant, expectorant
and febrifuge. The primary chemical constituents of Eucalyptus include essential
oils (cineol, pinene), polyphenolic acids (caffeic, gallic), bioflavonoids (eucalyptin,
hyperoside, rutin), tannins, aldehydes and bitter resins. The properties
of
the oils from different species vary slightly, but all are very antiseptic. Most Eucalyptus medications are made from the greenish-yellow oil obtained
from the mature leaves.
The number of ready-made preparations that contain
Eucalyptus oil is enormous. Every kind of product is represented, from pure
oil through oil-containing ointments and rubs,
to candies and syrups. The
effect is convincing, and side effects from the tea or from any of the commercial
preparations are extremely rare. Eucalyptus oil is a strong antiseptic, and
lozenges made from it are useful for lung diseases, colds and sore throats.
Its expectorant properties are useful in bronchitis, and it can also be used as
a vapor bath
or chest rub for asthma and other respiratory complaints. It
is said to be useful for burns, where it prevents infection. Externally, its
antiseptic and deodorant qualities make it suitable for use on wounds and
ulcers. Diluted in sunflower oil (as a carrier oil), it can be applied to cold sores or used
as a massage oil for painful joints. A cold extract made from the leaves is
helpful for indigestion and for intermittent fever. A preliminary study suggests
that a combination of menthol and Eucalyptus as a nasal inhalant may be helpful in
cases of mild to moderate snoring. Also, in a double-blind trial, a Eucalyptus-based
rub was found helpful for warming muscles in athletes. The leaves of
Eucalyptus have been smoked (rolled in a cigarette) in order to provide
relief in bronchial catarrh, asthma and other affections of the respiratory
organs.
Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) Capsules, one (1) time each day with water at a morning or midday mealtime. Do not exceed recommended dosage.
Contraindications:
Excess use (many times the recommended dosage) of Eucalyptus may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts. The effects of other prescription or over-the counter drugs may be weakened and/or shortened when using this herb, and a healthcare provider should be consulted before taking 5-Fluorouracil, pentobarbital or amphetamine, as there may be interactions. If you are taking any prescription medication for a health condition, speak with your doctor before taking this herb. Excess usage by people with low blood pressure should be avoided, as it may cause a further drop in pressure. Do not mix Eucalyptus with alcohol. Use of Eucalyptus oil requires caution when used topically, as it is very strong, and must always be diluted with a "carrier" oil (sunflower, etc.). Eucalyptus preparations should not be applied to the face, especially the nose, of babies and children. Before taking Eucalyptus Leaf, tell your doctor if you have liver disease or an inflamed (swollen and sore) stomach or intestinal tract.
Capsule Information:
Our Eucalyptus Leaf supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mg. each. |
