Possible Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil may offer several potential health advantages, such as helping with coughs, clearing chest congestion, disinfecting wounds, and more. That said, additional research is required to confirm many of these effects.

Native originally to Australia, eucalyptus trees are cultivated worldwide and valued for their medicinal uses. The therapeutic qualities are derived from eucalyptus oil, extracted from the tree’s oval leaves.

The leaves are dried, crushed, and steam-distilled to release the essential oil. Once obtained, the oil should be diluted before use as a complementary or alternative therapy.

Although studies point to possible benefits, the FDA does not oversee or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils and investigate the quality of any brand you consider. Always perform a patch test when trying a new essential oil.

Read on to discover more about what eucalyptus oil might do for your health.

1. Treat a cough

A 2022 review indicates that eucalyptus-based products could be useful in treating coughs. The review suggests they may be safe for coughs related to respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections.

However, the authors note that eucalyptus products may provide only modest relief for a cough, and other remedies might be more effective.

Learn more about essential oils for coughs.

2. Clear your chest

Eucalyptus essential oil may assist in removing mucus from the chest.

Inhaling vapor infused with the oil can loosen mucus, so it’s easier to expel when you cough. Applying a topical rub that contains eucalyptus oil can produce a similar effect.

Learn about essential oils for sinus congestion.

3. Protect against MRSA

Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial characteristics. A 2023 review suggests this might offer some protection against MRSA, a strain of bacteria capable of causing infections.

Nevertheless, further investigation is needed. If you suspect MRSA exposure or infection, contact a healthcare professional.

Learn about killing bacteria with essential oils.

4. Breathe easier

Inhaling steam with added eucalyptus oil may help relieve respiratory symptoms. The oil interacts with mucous membranes, reducing mucus and helping to loosen it so it can be coughed up.

A 2021 review reports that certain eucalyptus-containing products can help ease symptoms of conditions such as:

• sinusitis
• bronchitis
• COPD
• asthma

Keep in mind that eucalyptus can aggravate asthma in individuals who are sensitive or allergic to it. More studies are necessary to clarify its effects on asthma. If you have an allergy, avoid products containing eucalyptus.

5. Manage blood sugar

Eucalyptus citriodora oil demonstrated potential as a diabetes treatment in a 2021 study conducted in obese diabetic rats.

However, it is unclear how effective it might be for lowering blood glucose in humans. Larger human trials are required.

Consult your physician before adding eucalyptus oil to a diabetes treatment plan.

Learn more about managing blood sugar levels.

6. Soothe cold sores

The anti-inflammatory effects of eucalyptus may help ease the discomfort of cold sores. Applying eucalyptus oil to a lesion could reduce pain and potentially speed healing.

Still, focused research on eucalyptus oil specifically for cold sores is limited.

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, like jojoba or almond oil, before applying them to skin.

Learn about how to get rid of a cold sore as quickly as possible.

7. Freshen breath

Due to its antibacterial action, eucalyptus oil may fight the microbes that cause bad breath.

A 2020 review found that essential oils, including eucalyptus, might be useful for preventing or treating halitosis.

However, the review also calls for more research to determine safety and effectiveness.

Learn more about home remedies for bad breath.

8. Ease joint pain

Evidence suggests eucalyptus oil may help reduce joint pain.

A 2022 clinical trial examined eucalyptus oil in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Participants inhaled 1 milliliter of eucalyptus oil three times daily for 5 minutes over one month. Those using eucalyptus inhalation experienced a greater pain reduction compared with the control group.

Eucalyptus oil may also relieve pain linked to other conditions. Discuss with your doctor whether it might be appropriate for you.

Learn more about essential oils for pain relief.

The bottom line

Some evidence indicates eucalyptus essential oil may help with coughs, clear chest mucus, and make breathing easier for people with respiratory issues.

Eucalyptus may also offer protection against MRSA, help freshen breath, and reduce joint pain.

Larger human studies are needed to better understand the health benefits of eucalyptus oil. Consult your healthcare provider before incorporating eucalyptus oil into treatment for an existing condition.