Eucalyptus oil is available as an essential oil that is used as a medicine to treat a variety of common diseases and conditions including nasal congestion, asthma, and as a tick repellant. Diluted eucalyptus oil may also be applied to the skin as a remedy for health problems such as arthritis and skin ulcers.
Eucalyptus (Eucapyptus spp.), an evergreen tall tree native to Australia and Tasmania, has been used since ancient times by the aboriginal population for several purposes. In particular, the species E. globulus is widely used in the pulp industry, as well as for the production of eucalyptus oil extracted on a commercial scale in many countries as raw materials in perfumery, cosmetics, food, beverages, aromatherapy and phytotherapy.
The oil is largely used for steam inhalation to relieve the symptoms of cold and cough. Bronchitis: Eucalyptus tea or oil is often used internally as well as externally over the chest.
Arthritis: 5-20% in an oil-based formulation or 5-10% in an alcohol-based formulation. Nasal Congestion: 1 teaspoon in boiling water for steam inhalation; also rub on chest and around the nose