Effectiveness of Eucalyptus Oil as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent

Inflammation can occur at almost any point throughout your body, and it is caused when your white blood cells along with other chemicals congregate in an isolated location to protect your body from harmful compounds. For example, when your throat is inflamed it's your body's response to bacteria or viruses.

You may fight off inflammation through several steps; the most common being the topical or internal use of medications; however, herbal concoctions such as those that use eucalyptus oil may help reduce the severity of inflammation. If you're interested in using eucalyptus oil to fight off inflammation discuss the safety and suggested application methods with your physician.

Primary Constituents:

The primary active compounds found in eucalyptus oil include: flavonoids, tannins and volatile oils. However, according to research outlined by the University of Maryland Medical Center, the compound cineole is the primary compound responsible for its medicinal qualities. Eucalyptus oil may be used externally, and it should never be taken internally as serious adverse reactions will occur.

Eucalyptus Oil for Skin Inflammation:

Skin and joint inflammation is some of the most common types of inflammation, and eucalyptus oil may be used directly on the skin to help reduce symptom severity. Because eucalyptus oil is quite strong, it must be diluted with carrier oil such as sesame and olive oil. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests placing 15 to 30 drops of essential eucalyptus oil into at least ½ cup of carrier oil. After doing so, apply the concoction directly to the affected area with your fingers. Gently massage the oil for several minutes into the area. However, to avoid a severe reaction, do not apply the oil directly to an open wound or to broken skin.

Eucalyptus Oil for Respiratory Inflammation:

The use of eucalyptus oil for respiratory system inflammation is one of the most common uses of this oil. Because eucalyptus oil contains a strong, pungent odor it can help calm inflammation within the respiratory tract. It may also act as an expectorant to clear away phlegm and mucus accumulation. To utilize this remedy, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil and add up to 10 drops of eucalyptus oil into the water. While draping a towel over your head, lean over the steaming water and take deep breaths. The purpose of the towel is to capture the steam around your nostrils. Breathe deeply for three to five minutes. Keep tissues nearby as the strong odor will cause any phlegm or mucus to be released.

References Used:

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/eucalyptus-000241.htm

University of Maryland Medical Center: Eucalyptus

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/700.html

MedlinePlus: Eucalyptus

http://my.clevelandclinic.org/symptoms/inflammation/hic_inflammation_what_you_need_to_know.aspx

Cleveland Clinic: Inflammation