Eucalyptus
Latin name: Eucalyptus globulus

 

A Remedy For Bronchitis Cough Rheumatism Eucalyptus has a variety of other uses for which its effectiveness remains unproved. Among them are bladder, liver, and gallbladder conditions, whooping cough, fever, flu, hoarseness, asthma, diabetes, scarlet fever, measles, sinus conditions, loss of appetite, wounds, acne, bleeding gums, sore mouth, nerve pain, poorly healing sores, worms, gonorrhea, and digestive complaints.
In Asia, it is also used for headache, bad breath, threadworm, and tuberculosis.

What It Is; Why It Works Eucalyptus is the signature tree of Australia, but can now be found in subtropical regions throughout the world. With a distinctive silver-gray bark and twisted trunk, some species of Eucalyptus grow as high as a 12-story building. The medicinal properties of Eucalyptus reside in its oil, which is extracted from the fresh leaves and branch tips, and is found in the dried leaves. It acts as a decongestant, loosens phlegm, and relieves spasms. Applied to the skin, the oil improves local circulation. In laboratory tests, the oil has shown an ability to kill bacteria and fungi. Like the similar soothing agents menthol and camphor, Eucalyptus is found in several familiar over-the-counter remedies, including Listerine Antiseptic Mouthrinse, Mentholatum Cherry Chest Rub, and Vicks VapoRub.

Avoid If...
Do not take Eucalyptus if you have digestive problems, a disorder of the biliary duct, or liver disease.
Do not apply preparations containing Eucalyptus oil to the face of an infant or small child; it could cause asthma-like symptoms or even death by asphyxiation.

Special Cautions
In rare cases, taking Eucalyptus can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Poisoning, particularly of children, is possible with very small doses of Eucalyptus oil. (See the "Overdosage" section below.)

Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.

Special Information
If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding No harmful effects are known.

How To Prepare
Eucalyptus can be found in various dry, semi-solid, and liquid preparations.
Typical Dosage Eucalyptus oil: For internal use, the usual daily dose is 300 to 600 milligrams (a few drops). For external use, rub several drops into the skin. Eucalyptus leaf: The average daily dose is 4 to 16 grams (about 1 to 3 teaspoonfuls), taken in small portions every 3 to 4 hours Eucalyptus alcohol solution (tincture): The average daily dose is 3 to 4 grams (about one-half to three-quarters of a teaspoonful) Eucalyptus tea: Drink a cup several times daily The potency of commercial preparations may vary. Follow the manufacturer's instructions whenever available. Store Eucalyptus in tightly sealed containers.

Overdosage A few drops of Eucalyptus oil are sufficient to cause life-threatening poisoning in a child. Adults have been poisoned with only 4 to 5 milliliters (about 1 teaspoonful). Symptoms of overdose include a drop in blood pressure, circulation problems, collapse, and asphyxiation.

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. The leaf form of Eucalyptus is far less potent, and is unlikely to cause a problem.