You may have thought Equinox Gyms were the first to introduce eucalyptus towels to the world. But, eucalyptus leaves have actually been used in home remedies since way back when. So, if you love that eucalyptus aroma that pumps through the vents at Equinox, you’ll be happy to know you can recreate your own zen environment in your home and for a fraction of the cost! And, besides taking in the distinct sweet scent of eucalyptus, the leaves actually have some amazing health benefits and uses.
The Scent: Leaves & Oil
This sweet, woody scent stems from the oil in the eucalyptus leaves. There are over 600 species of eucalyptus, but the most common tree has leaves that are made up of about 70% oil, hence the aroma! The eucalyptus oil we buy is made from the leaves and branches of the eucalyptus tree. The leaves are steam-distilled to extract the oil.
Uses & Benefits
The trees are native to Australia and were first used by Aboriginals, as well as since the late 1700’s as an Australian home remedy that quickly spread throughout the world.
Eucalyptus is commonly used to treat bronchitis, congestion, sinus infections, colds, coughs, stuffy noses, the flu, sore throats and fevers. The oil is also used for aromatherapy, massage and as a calming and cooling agent. It is anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, which is why it is commonly found in cough drops, toothpaste, mouthwash and wound ointments. The oil is also used to relieve pain and is an ingredient in some lotions and creams for muscle and joint pain.
Steam Inhalation
Eucalyptus leaves are also popularly used for steam inhalation. I remember my parents boiling eucalyptus leaves when I got sick as a child in combination with rubbing Vick’s Vapor Rub on my chest—a popular Cuban remedy. The steam helps clear up your nasal passageways, acts as an expectorant and helps calm your cough. This should help ease up post-nasal drip and that obnoxious phlegm in the back of your throat.
To steam, boil water and add eucalyptus leaves. You can leave the pot on the stove with the water boiling to keep a consistent aroma in your home or you can pour into a separate bowl. Grab a towel or old t-shirt and create a tent over your head while keeping your head over the bowl to inhale the steam.
Tea
I’ve never made my own eucalyptus tea at home and don’t remember ever drinking some. While there are home recipes out there, I personally would prefer to buy already packaged tea bags with dried eucalyptus from my local health foods store. Reason being, I get my eucalyptus leaves from a local trail by my house. Even though I rinse them off before I steam them, I can be skeptical about drinking that water as tea.
Toxicity & Flammability
As much as we love the smell, it is not safe to eat or drink eucalyptus leaves or their oil. Eucalyptus oil is toxic if taken orally or directly applied to the skin without being diluted. Herbs and leaves like eucalyptus can cause side effects in people taking certain medications or with pre-existing conditions. Be cautious and ask your doctor before adding eucalyptus to your lifestyle.
Also, eucalyptus leaves are highly flammable. Keep them away from an open flame, especially if you are using a gas stove for steam inhalation. Make sure there is enough water in the pot boiling at all times with the leaves. It could be dangerous if they start to smoke and you aren’t keeping an eye on them.
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