Eucalyptus's therapeutic uses
Eucalyptus, particularly the species Eucalyptus globulus, is widely recognized for its therapeutic uses, especially in treating respiratory conditions such as the common cold, asthma, and cough. The essential oil derived from eucalyptus contains eucalyptol, which has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and bronchodilator properties, making it effective in alleviating symptoms like nasal congestion and bronchial tightness. Eucalyptus oil is often used in various forms, including topical applications, inhalation therapies, and even formulations like chewing gum for oral health. Beyond respiratory benefits, eucalyptus may also offer relief for conditions like gingivitis, muscle pain, and anxiety, with some studies suggesting it has immune-boosting properties.
Despite its potential benefits, eucalyptus oil should be used with caution, as it can cause adverse effects such as nausea and skin irritation, particularly in children and those with certain health conditions. It is important to note that while some studies indicate its efficacy, the safety profile of eucalyptus oil varies, and dosage guidelines should be followed closely to prevent serious side effects. Overall, eucalyptus presents a diverse range of therapeutic uses, but proper care and awareness are essential for safe application.
Eucalyptus's therapeutic uses
- DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
- PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USE: Common cold
- OTHER PROPOSED USES: Asthma, cough, insect repellent, periodontal disease (gingivitis), sinusitis, sore throat, pain relief, antimicrobial, antiseptic, stress reduction, immunity booster
Overview
The eucalyptus tree originated in Australia and Tasmania but has spread to other inhabited continents. There are many different varieties of eucalyptus, with somewhat differing constituents. The most common type used medicinally is eucalyptus globules. Its essential oil contains eucalyptol (cineole).
Eucalyptus oil has a long history of use as a topical antiseptic. It also has been used as a lozenge or inhalation therapy for asthma, cough, sore throat, and other respiratory conditions.
Therapeutic Dosages
The studied dosage of cineole is 200 mg three times daily for adults. Internal use of cineole or eucalyptus oil should be avoided in children. The gingivitis study used chewing gum containing 0.4 and 0.6 percent eucalyptus extracts. As an insect repellent, 25 to 50 milliliters (ml) of the oil are added to 500 ml of water. It should not be used in children twelve years or younger. As an inhalant, a few drops of eucalyptus oil are added to a vaporizer.
Therapeutic Uses
A standardized combination of cineole from eucalyptus, d-limonene from citrus fruit, and alpha-pinene from pine has been studied for effectiveness in various respiratory conditions. These oils are all in a chemical family called monoterpenes, so the combined treatment is called essential oil monoterpenes. This combination is discussed in a separate article of that name.
Eucalyptus oil or its constituents taken alone have undergone limited but expanding study. It appears to be most promising as a treatment for the common cold due to its anti-inflammatory properties and effectiveness in decreasing mucous and expanding bronchi. Its expectorant and decongestant properties help to loosen mucous and clear airways, and its bronchodilator effects aid in treating patients with asthma. However, concerns about safety have limited its use.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 152 people using cineole at a dose of 200 milligrams (mg) three times daily showed markedly improved common cold symptoms. Benefits were seen in such symptoms as nasal congestion, headache, and overall malaise. Because the participants in this study suffered, in particular, from sinus symptoms, this study has been used to indicate that cineole may be helpful for viral sinusitis. Few significant side effects were seen in this study, but the product used was of pharmaceutical grade, and not all dietary supplements of eucalyptus oil may be equally safe. A second placebo-controlled study involving 150 subjects also demonstrated favorable results for cineole, compared with a combination of five other herbal products.
In another study, thirty-two people on steroids to control severe asthma (steroid-dependent asthma) were given either placebo or cineole (200 mg three times daily) for twelve weeks. The results showed that people using cineole were able to gradually reduce their steroid dosage to a greater extent than those taking placebo. Reduction of steroid dosage should be done only under the supervision of a physician.
Eucalyptus has been studied for its potential for further health benefits. It is high in antioxidants known as flavonoids that may protect against some cancers, heart disease, and dementia. In one 2018 human study, eucalyptus’ ceramide content was shown to help symptoms related to dry, itchy skin. Human studies have also shown eucalyptus’ effectiveness in decreasing pain and relieving anxiety. Eucalyptus has also been suggested for generic immune boosting properties.
Cineole or eucalyptus oil applied topically has also shown some potential value for repelling mosquitoes. In one double-blind study, chewing gum containing eucalyptus extract was more beneficial for moderate gingivitis than placebo gum. The topical use of eucalyptus oil has also been suggested to treat joint and muscle pain, as well as symptoms of arthritis. Placing eucalyptus oil on the temples may relieve headaches, and applying it to wounds may promote healing. Eucalyptus has also been added to mouthwashes and toothpaste, where its antimicrobial properties help fight bacteria and freshen breath.
Safety Issues
Internal use of eucalyptus oil at appropriate doses by healthy people can cause nausea, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash. Excessive dosages can be fatal, especially to children. Inhalation of the oil can exacerbate asthma in some people. Application of cineole to the entire body resulted in severe nervous system poisoning in a six-year-old child. In general, eucalyptus oil should not be used by young children, pregnant or nursing women, or people with severe liver or kidney disease.
Although no drug interactions of eucalyptus are firmly documented, there are theoretical reasons to believe it could interact with a number of medications, either raising or lowering their levels. Therefore, people taking any oral or injected medication critical to their health or well-being should avoid internal use of eucalyptus until more is known.
Bibliography
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