What are the benefits of eucalyptus?

When it comes to these types of trees, commonly called gum trees in Africa, there is a lot to know. Since the spread of Covid-19, we have fully understood that this is the type of virus that loves winter as it multiplies and spreads mostly in this season. Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree that’s widely used for its medicinal properties. Eucalyptus trees, or gum trees as most of its species are called, are famous for their round, silver leaves. These are marked by a distinctive fragrant oil and leathery feel. Due to the aromatic nature of the plant, it is commonly used in fresh and dried floral arrangements. The aromatic eucalyptus oil provides several herbal benefits Eucalyptus trees are more commonly known for their scent, but they have various uses. They can serve multiple purposes in different fields.

Interesting facts about eucalyptus trees:

1. May relieve cold symptoms Eucalyptus is widely used as a natural cold remedy and is a common ingredient in cold and cough products. Research has shown that it can decrease mucus and expand the bronchi and bronchioles of your lungs. It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory. The main ingredient responsible for these properties is eucalyptol, also known as cineole, which is a compound found in eucalyptus oil. It relieves cold symptoms like cough frequency, nasal congestion, and headache by decreasing inflammation and mucus buildup. Eucalyptus oil can be inhaled through your nose and may provide some cold symptom relief. It’s also found in many topical decongestants. However, because even small doses of the oil can be toxic, you should avoid consuming it (9Trusted Source). Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before using eucalyptol or changing your medications.

2. Eucalyptus flowers have no petals From a distance, the flowers on most species of eucalyptus trees look like fluffy bursts of colour, kind of like a dandelion flower. These blossoms have no petals. The entire “bloom” consists of hundreds of stamens emerging from a central cone-like bud. They come in a range of colours, including white, bright red, vibrant orange, deep pink, and lime green. The abundance of stamens translates to an abundance of pollen. And, eucalyptus trees can use as much pollen as possible. They have few natural pollinators because of high concentrations of cineole. Most often, eucalyptus trees count on the multitude of stamens for self-pollination. Although native to Australia, this popular tree now grows in many areas of the world. It has a gum-infused bark, long stems, and circular leaves that are hard to digest if eaten whole. However, eucalyptus leaves can be made into a tea that’s safe for consumption.

3. May treat dry skin Using eucalyptus may improve dry skin by increasing its ceramide content. Ceramides are a type of fatty acid in your skin that’s responsible for maintaining its barrier and retaining its moisture. Those who experience dry skin, dandruff, or skin disorders like dermatitis and usually have lower ceramide levels. Topical eucalyptus leaf extract has been found to boost skin ceramide production, water-holding capacity, and skin barrier protection. Hence, many hair and skin products contain eucalyptus leaf extract.

4. May reduce pain Inhaling eucalyptus essential oil may decrease pain. Eucalyptus contains many anti-inflammatory compounds, such as cineole and limonene, which may act as pain relievers. People who had undergone surgery found that inhaling eucalyptus oil dissolved in almond oil for 30 minutes daily significantly decreased perceived pain and blood pressure levels, compared with inhaling pure almond oil.

5. May promote relaxation Eucalyptus is widely believed to decrease symptoms of stress. In one study, 62 healthy people experienced significant reductions in pre-surgery anxiety after inhaling eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol, which has been found to possess anti-anxiety properties. Furthermore, inhaling eucalyptus oil for 30 minutes has been associated with lower blood pressure in patients after knee surgery, which suggests that it has a calming effect. Researchers believe that it decreases the activity of your sympathetic nervous system ⁠ your stress response system ⁠ and increases the activity of your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation.

Source: Gardeningchannel healthline  

DID YOU KNOW?

Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047 The South Coast Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram– why not join us there? Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist. (Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)