I’m finding my essential oils and aromatherapy blends a comfort
in a variety of different ways at the moment and trust me, I know how lucky I
am to have both them and the knowledge of how to safely and effectively use them
at my fingertips.
While there is unfortunately no evidence to show that essential oils will help protect or treat us with coronavirus, we do however know that they can provide general respiratory support and, as my clients know only too well through their treatments and products, a good level of psychological support too.
One of the oils firmly placed in my respiratory tool kit is Eucalyptus. The Eucalypts are part of the Myrtaceae family and the essential oil is steam distilled from leaves, yielding oil that ranges from a greenish yellow to an almost colourless or very pale yellow colour. I just love the look of Eucalyptus leaves – the one above, a Ecualyptus gunni, is just about to be planted out in our garden.
There are hundreds of different types, but I am currently using Eucalyptus radiata, Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus smithii, all three of which contain a high level of the chemical compound 1,8- cineole which is known for its mucolytic and spasmolytic action of the respiratory tract.
Traditionally Eucalyptus oil has been used to ease respiratory congestion as it is an effective expectorant helping loosen mucous by reducing the swelling of the mucous membranes, however its not just the respiratory system which can benefit from these therapeutic oils. They are powerful immune -stimulants and can also be used to ease muscular aches and pains, especially those of a rheumatic nature, they help provide relief from headaches, are fabulous for clearing the head and promoting mental clarity as well as being an effective insect repellent. My favourite at the moment is smithii which is not only safer to use around children and the elderly as it has a gentler action, but along with radiata (which comes in at a close second) they both have a more gentle, fresh and less pungent scent than globulus which can be quite overpowering, sharp and camphoraceous.
But it’s main action for me is on the respiratory system and
that is why it’s currently one of my go-to oils as a steam inhalation, a
diffuser oil around my house and in my chest balm too. I’ve also included Eucalypts in my Boost Pulse
Point Oil and recommend applying to temples and behind the ears and also to wrists
(once applied, rub wrists gently together and inhale, inhale, inhale! An almost
immediate decongestant)
If you have any of the Eucalypts essential oils and would like to know how to use them safely and effectively, please get in touch with me or seek advice from another fully qualified clinical aromatherapist – We’d be more than happy to advise and help.
Take care and stay well
Nicky x
Do not use if pregnant. Do not take internally or use neat on the skin - always dilute well before topical use.