Eucalyptus
© Martin Wall
Parts Used & Where Grown
Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree native to Australia but is cultivated worldwide. The plant’s leaves—and the oil that is steam-distilled from them—are used medicinally.1
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- This interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Bronchitis | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Eucalyptus leaf tea is used to treat bronchitis and inflammation of the throat, and is considered anti-microbial. |
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Eucalyptus is used traditionally to promote mucus discharge. |
Cough | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Historically, herbal practitioners have recommended a steam inhalation of eucalyptus vapour to help treat asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, and emphysema. |
Halitosis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Volatile oils made from eucalyptus have anti-bacterial properties and may be effective in mouthwash or toothpaste form. |
Infection | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Eucalyptus is a herb that directly attack microbes. |
Sinus Congestion | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Eucalyptus oil is often used in a steam inhalation to help clear nasal and sinus congestion.
|
Sinusitis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Eucalyptus oil is often used in a steam inhalation to help clear nasal and sinus congestion. It acts on receptors in the nasal mucous membranes, leading to less stuffiness. |
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Eucalyptus was first used by Australian aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for water in the dry outback but used the leaves as a remedy for fevers. In the 1800s, crew members of an Australian freighter developed high fevers, but were able to successfully cure their condition using eucalyptus tea. Thus, eucalyptus became well known throughout Europe and the Mediterranean as the Australian fever tree. Early 19th century Eclectic physicians in the United States not only used eucalyptus oil to sterilize instruments and wounds, but recommended a steam inhalation of the vapour of its oil to help treat asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, and emphysema.2
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.
