Behind its refreshing aroma, there are many health benefits of eucalyptus oil. This oil, which is often used as a body warmer, has many other names, among them Kajuputi leucadendra, Aceite de Cajeput, Cajeputi aetheroleum, and cajeput oil.
Eucalyptus oil is the result of collecting steam from the fresh leaves and twigs of the eucalyptus tree.Melaleuca leucadendra). Eucalyptus oil contains a chemical called cineole, linalool, and terpineol, which gives a warm sensation when applied to the skin.
Various Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil
If you use eucalyptus oil in the right way, this oil can be a warm friend and reduce discomfort when the body feels unwell. In addition, there are many benefits of eucalyptus oil that you can get, including:
1. Relieves headaches and nasal congestion
Pure eucalyptus oil can be used as a remedy for headaches and nasal congestion. To get these benefits, use eucalyptus oil as aromatherapy by pouring a few drops on it diffuser or inhale the aroma directly.
2. Treat minor wounds
Eucalyptus oil has good antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. So, this oil is thought to be useful for protecting small and deep wounds from infection so that it can accelerate wound healing.
3. Improve concentration
A study found that cineole and linalool contained in eucalyptus oil can improve concentration and memory during work. Even so, this benefit needs to be studied further, because there have been no direct trials using eucalyptus oil.
4. Help prevent Corona virus infection
A study shows that compounds in eucalyptus oil, especially terpineol and linalool, have the potential to prevent the Corona virus from entering the human body. However, there are no human studies that can confirm this benefit.
As long as its use is within normal limits and according to the recommended usage, eucalyptus oil may be used as an effort to prevent COVID-19. However, this method still cannot replace the main health protocols, namely using masks, washing hands, and maintaining distance.
In addition to the four benefits above, eucalyptus oil is also believed to be used to treat muscle or joint pain, head lice, toothache, and also relieve anxiety and stress. However, similar to the benefits of eucalyptus oil for COVID-19, its effectiveness still needs to be tested further researched.
Eucalyptus Oil Side Effects
Applying enough eucalyptus oil on the surface of the skin is still relatively safe. However, it is not recommended to apply it on the skin that has an open wound.
In some people, the use of eucalyptus oil can cause side effects, namely:
skin allergies
Some people may experience allergic skin reactions when exposed to eucalyptus oil. Therefore, at the beginning of use, you should apply a small amount first. Wait a few moments and see the reaction that appears. If the skin is red, irritated, and itchy, stop using eucalyptus oil.
Respiratory disorders
Inhaling pure eucalyptus oil without any mixed ingredients risks causing respiratory problems or even asthma attacks, because the aroma of this oil is very strong. Therefore, avoid inhaling pure eucalyptus oil directly from the bottle, especially for pregnant women and children.
Eucalyptus oil has become an alternative medicine that is preferred by almost all Indonesian families. However, be careful about the side effects that this oil can cause.
In addition, you are also not advised to use eucalyptus oil in ways other than the recommended use of this product, even though many people have done so. If you have certain medical conditions, first ask your doctor about how to use eucalyptus oil that is safe for your condition.