Eucalyptol is a beneficial terpene found in several plants. Essential oils with it are useful for treating a wide variety of conditions. The colorless compound combines well with carrier oils, other essential oils, and some kinds of butter. It can combat mental exhaustion, treat ulcers and much more. Folks with arthritis find not only pain reduction, but also an increase in the mood with regular use of eucalyptus essential oil.
Eucalyptol improves circulation and is beneficial for practically everyone. Since the terpene is found in multiple oils, you can choose specific oils based on your other health and wellness needs at the time.
Although the name originated from the Australian eucalyptus tree, eucalyptol is found in several plants, including tea tree, cardamom, rosemary, sage and bay leaves. First isolated by a French chemist in 1870, it is also commonly called 1,8-cineole.
The terpene has a minty scent, with hints of spice and honey. The scent is most often associated with massage balms for aching joints and muscles. It can also be likened to camphor and has a cooling effect.
Uses In Aromatherapy
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Useful for reducing inflammation, no matter what the cause. Essential oils containing eucalyptol can be combined with a food-grade carrier oil and massaged into affected areas several times each day. The cooling sensation can aid in pain relief often associated with swelling. For a thicker, creamer application, coconut oil or cocoa butter can be blended into the mix. 2
ASTHMA AND COPD TREATMENT
While you should never ignore the advice of medical professionals, eucalyptus can be an effective treatment in your arsenal against asthma and similar breathing difficulties. This is due in part to the anti-inflammatory effects of the oil. Additionally, it dilates blood vessels to increase oxygen delivery.
It is important that the oil is not taken internally in an effort to hasten results. Excessive amounts are toxic, and over-consumption can send you to the hospital just as fast as a serious asthma attack.
MUSCLE AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF
The oil is a perfect addition to a homemade pain balm. Eucalyptus, rosemary and other aromatic essential oils with eucalyptol can be combined with coconut and jojoba oils for a light massage oil. It can be massaged into the painful areas several times each day for relief. A warm essential oil can be added to complement the cooling sensation of the eucalyptol.
BOOST MENTAL CLARITY
Those who are feeling mentally drained and unable to keep track of information have found eucalyptol to be an effective treatment. It can be used to help balance sleep patterns and overall mental functioning.
There are several ways that the terpene can be incorporated into your daily habits. For instance, inhalation prior to a yoga session can improve the results of the body, mind and soul workout. It can be used to help stave off cognitive decline and general disconnect. Combine it with other oils for incredible benefits.
INSECT REPELLENT
Most bugs hate eucalyptus, which makes it your friend. Crawling and flying insects alike will head to the neighbor's yard if yours has the delightful fragrance of lemongrass, rosemary, and citronella wafting through the air. Each of these essential oils contains high quantities of eucalyptol. They can be combined and applied directly to the skin with a carrier oil for outdoors relief. Inside, a diffuser is an effective way to disperse the repellent into the nooks and crannies of your home. 3
Special spray applications are also useful for keeping insects from entering your home. In a clean spray bottle, mix two ounces of distilled water and twenty to fifty drops of essential oils with the terpene. Mix well and spray around windows, doors and other areas where bugs are likely to enter. Repeat the process two to three times per week to keep them at bay.
HEALS WOUNDS
The terpene is an important component for wound healing applications. Eucalyptol fights various type of microscopic organisms that invade open wounds. In addition to expediting the healing process, it can treat the pain and prevent infection. Add to a healing carrier oil or butter for a refreshing salve to soothe your painful sores.
AIR SANITIZER
The delightful fragrance associated with eucalyptol is an excellent air cleaner and odor remover. Whether you prefer the spicier scent of ginger or the stimulating smell of rosemary, essential oils with eucalyptol should be on your regular house cleaning product list.
You can use a diffuser to gently disperse the fragrance throughout the room. Alternatively, spread the love by using the oils along with your vacuum. Put a few drops of oil on a clean cotton ball and toss into your dryer canister or bag. The vacuum will work as a natural dispersal agent. Likewise, a drop of oil on a clean dryer sheet can help to keep laundry fresher longer.
DENTAL TREATMENTS
While people often talk about their physical health concerns, oral health problems can get swept under the table. However, most people in the modern world are plagued by diseased teeth and gums. While eucalyptus oil can't change the past, it does have healing powers that can help to turn the tide on receding gums and other oral diseases.
A simple homemade toothpaste can be made by combining equal parts coconut oil and baking soda. Add two drops of oil for each tablespoon of the mixture. The mixture should be mixed thoroughly for best results. Many find that sweetening the concoction with stevia makes it more palatable.
The mixture should be stored in an airtight container away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Care should be taken to avoid contaminating the paste when removing single-use amounts.
COLDS, COUGHS, AND THE FLU
The properties of the oil help to loosen phlegm and rid the body of toxic organisms and chemicals that are contributing to the illness. Those who are feeling ill can place several drops in the diffuser before falling asleep. However, it is important to have tissues and other supplies handy for the mucous that is expelled via these treatments.
Those who have a chronic cough but no fever can also benefit from the expectorant quality of the terpene. Steam inhalation and chest rubs are the best ways to treat an ongoing cough. 4
Likewise, sore throat sprays created with the right essential oils can be quite effective at treating the pain and swelling associated with sore throats. A good homemade spray will use sea salt or even pure Himalayan salt with distilled water. Then, a few drops of eucalyptus, clove, rosemary or cinnamon oil can be added to the cooled liquid. Keep the spray in the refrigerator for a delightful experience!