The Health and Beauty Benefits of Eucalyptus Leaves
The health and beauty benefits of eucalyptus leaves are numerous in their fresh or dried form. The leaves of eucalyptus come from plants in the genus Eucalyptus, which is made up of hundreds of species in the Myrtaceae family that are endemic to Australia.
Eucalyptus leaves contain oil glands that produce an essential oil with a woody, camphor–like scent. The plant’s volatile essential oils contain a variety of beneficial phytochemical compounds. Many over–the–counter products contain eucalyptus, such as mouthwash, vapor rub, and chewing gum.
Concentrated, therapeutic essential oil can be derived from the plant (and mixed with a carrier oil for topical application), while the leaves can be dried to make tinctures, steeped to make tea or steamed in the shower to create vapors that help clear up upper respiratory conditions or simply help alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
In our previous post on the health and beauty benefits of eucalyptus essential oil we expanded on that ingredient’s benefits in treating a variety of respiratory symptoms due to its high 1,8–cineol content, which is a natural decongestant and antiseptic—but the leaves of the eucalyptus tree themselves can offer similar benefits. Nearly all parts of the plant have medicinal benefits including the leaves, bark and roots.
Description of Eucalyptus Leaves
Species in the Eucalyptus genus grow as trees or shrubs depending on the species, the geography and the climate. The leaves usually start out as light green ovals and become darker green as the plant matures. Most types are evergreens and hold on to their leaves year–round. The eucalyptus tree has a gum–infused bark and long stems.
While it is inadvisable to eat raw eucalyptus leaves, the leaves can be prepared in other ways to safely extract their beneficial compounds. Using eucalyptus leaf herbal infusions and tonics, you can prepare homemade flu and cold remedies to help treat symptoms like chest congestion, cough, and other cold and flu symptoms. You can also apply these topically to your skin, hair or mouth to promote healing and avoid infections.
The Health and Beauty Benefits of Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus leaves are a great source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which protect your body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Diets rich in these compounds can protect against certain cancers, heart disease, and dementia. The main flavonoids in eucalyptus include 1,8–cineole (known as eucalyptol), catechins, isorhamnetin, luteolin, limolen, kaempferol, phloretin, and quercetin.
These compounds can provide anti–inflammatory effects and support the immune system. They also have analgesic properties that can help reduce toothaches, headaches and joint pain when applied topically. Although you cannot eat fresh, whole eucalyptus leaves, dried leaves can be brewed into tea. Choose a tea that is specifically labeled “eucalyptus leaf tea,” and never add eucalyptus essential oil to the tea. If you’re interested in learning about eucalyptus leaves in greater detail, read this PDF on eucalyptus leaves health and beauty benefits.
1. Antibacterial and Antimicrobial
The compound 1,8–cineole present in these leaves was shown in a 2010 study to have antimicrobial effects against many bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and methicillin–resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), viruses, and fungi (including Candida).
A large 2012 study comprehensively examined flavonoid classes in relation to cardiovascular disease mortality. The study was comprised of 38,180 men and 60,289 women. Researchers found that a diet high in flavonoids was associated with an 18% lower risk of fatal heart disease. Eucalyptus tea is a good source of antioxidants and flavonoids, and is generally recognized as safe for adults. However, children are at high risk of eucalyptus toxicity and should get approval from a healthcare professional before drinking eucalyptus tea.
2. Relief from Cough, and Cold and Flu Symptoms
In a 2004 a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, and a 2013 placebo-controlled double-blind trial the 1,8–cineole in eucalyptus proved a great natural treatment for common respiratory issues, such as cough, sore throat, phlegm, nasal congestion, respiratory infections, bronchitis, headaches stemming from rhinosinusitis (sinus pressure), asthma, and symptoms related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in over–the–counter (OTC) cold and cough products. Research has shown that it can loosen mucus and expand the bronchi and bronchioles of your lungs. It is also a natural anti–inflammatory agent.
The main phytochemical compound responsible for these properties is eucalyptol, also known as 1,8–cineole, found in eucalyptus leaves and essential oil. Eucalyptol relieves cold symptoms like cough frequency, nasal congestion, and headache by decreasing inflammation and mucus buildup.
In one 2003 12–week study 32 people with bronchial asthma were given either 600 mg of eucalyptol or a placebo every day. Those in the eucalyptol group required 36% less medication to control their asthma symptoms, compared with those in the control group, who only required 7% less.
Eucalyptol is also found in many topical decongestants. However, because even small doses of the essential oil of eucalyptus can be toxic, you should avoid ingesting it. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before using eucalyptus essential oil or changing your medications.
3. Manage Asthma Symptoms
Eucalyptol, a terpene, has been shown to help improve asthma symptoms. In a 2012 double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study, 247 patients with asthma were administered 600 mg of 1,8–cineole, or a placebo daily, over a period of 6 months. The group taking eucalyptol experienced a decreased need for steroid medications used to control their symptoms, significantly more so than the placebo group.
Researchers involved in a 2020 study credit the notable improvement in lung function and health condition as well as reduced dyspnea in asthma patients to the anti–inflammatory effects of 1,8–cineole. This compound has been found to suppress arachidonic acid metabolism and cytokine production, two factors that exacerbate severe asthma.
4. Provide Pain Relief
Simply inhaling eucalyptus may decrease pain. Eucalyptus contains many anti–inflammatory compounds, like 1,8–cineole and limonene, which act as pain relievers.
A 3–day study in 2013 consisting of 52 people who had undergone knee replacement surgery found that inhaling eucalyptus essential oil diluted in sweet almond oil for 30 minutes daily significantly decreased pain and blood pressure levels, as compared with inhaling pure sweet almond oil.
However, another study in 2019 consisting of 123 cancer patients found no significant differences in pain between the control group and the group inhaling eucalyptus essential oil for 3 minutes prior to a medical procedure. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate this study.
5. Healthy Skin Care
Using eucalyptus may improve dry skin. In a 2011 study, a eucalyptus extract demonstrated an increase in the level of ceramide production in human keratinocytes. Ceramides are a type of fatty acid in your skin that’s responsible for maintaining its barrier and retaining its moisture. Researchers believe these results indicate the possibility that macrocarpal A in the eucalyptus extract is the key component that stimulates the synthesis of ceramide in the skin.
In a 2018 study consisting of 34 patients found that the topical application of a lotion containing eucalyptus extract and a synthetic ceramide to participants’ scalps daily for four weeks significantly improved the skin dryness, scaling, itchiness and erythema in all patients. Symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis or pityriasis capitis.
6. Improve & Maintain Oral Health
Eucalyptus can improve periodontal health by having antimicrobial effects against many bacteria, which is why it is sometimes added to mouthwash and gum to help prevent plaque buildup and reduce bleeding. The 1,8–cineol compound helps control the inflammation and bacteria growth that contribute to gum disease. Eucalyptus leaves contain high amounts of ethanol and macrocarpal C—a type of polyphenol. These compounds are associated with killing the bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.
In a 2008 double-masked, randomized trial, eucalyptus extract was found to possess antibacterial activity against cariogenic and periodontopathic bacteria. Groups chewed gum with eucalyptus extract in high-concentration, low-concentration, and a placebo for 12 weeks. The low- and high-concentration groups exhibited statistically significant improvements compared to the placebo group in plaque buildup, gum bleeding and gum inflammation.
7. Natural Insect Repellent
Eucalyptus can directly act as a natural insect repellent to provide protection against mosquitoes and other harmful arthropods. The pesticidal activity of eucalyptus oil is due to the components such as 1,8-cineole, citronellal, citronellol, citronellyl acetate, p-cymene, eucamalol, limonene, linalool, α-pinene, γ-terpinene, α-terpineol.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)—derived from a tree which is actually not the same Eucalyptus family—as an approved and powerful insect repellant. OLE is effective at warding off mosquitoes and other biting insects for up to eight hours after topical application.
Reportedly, the essential oils from E. globulus and its major monoterpene 1,8-cineole showed toxicity against human head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis (Yang et al. 2004). In a 2017 randomized controlled trial, eucalyptus essential oil was found to be more than twice as effective in curing head lice infestation as a neurotoxic treatment mousse.
In a 2015 systematic review, few research clinical trials were available to show whether eucalyptus essential oil is effective at eradicating head lice compared with other treatments. Efficacy is likely to depend upon the extracts used and the mode of action.
8. Promote Relaxation
The warm, woody scent of eucalyptol contained in eucalyptus leaves and essential oil has been shown to lower stress and anxiety. In a 2014 randomized clinical trial, 62 patients undergoing selective nerve root block experienced a significant reduction in preoperative anxiety after inhaling eucalyptus. Inhaling eucalyptus was also shown to lower blood pressure in the patients after the surgery.
Buying and Storage of Eucalyptus Leaves
In terms of where to buy eucalyptus leaves, look in health food stores, some gardening stores or online. You can also easily grow this plant yourself at home (see below), either indoors or outdoors.
The Shelf Life of Eucalyptus Leaves
Fresh leaves should be used within 3–8 weeks. Dried, preserved leaves last for as long as 1–2 years if stored in an airtight container.
How to Use Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus leaves are found in a wide variety of products, including cough drops, beauty products, herbal teas, candles and potpourri. To make your own eucalyptus salves, cough drops and other remedies, you can first create a tincture or “herbal infusion” by steeping the leaves. See below for instructions on how to do this.
How to Dry Fresh Leaves
You can dry the leaves on the stem by hanging the branches upside down in a dry place in your home.
An alternative is to remove the leaves from the stem and dry them on your counter on a paper towel.
You’ll know the leaves are dried once they have a crispy or “leathery” appearance.
Store them in an airtight glass jar to keep them fresh.
Using the Eucalyptus Leaves Whole
Hang the leaves on their stem in your shower, or add them directly to your bath water. The steam will help release the beneficial compounds for relief from cold and flu symptoms, chest congestion or simply for a relaxing spa–like experience.
You can also add some to a bowl of or fill your bathroom sink with hot water, bend over the bowl/sink so your face is hovering above the water, drape a bath towel over your head and shoulders (this will keep the steam near your face), and inhale the vapors coming off.
Make a Eucalyptus Leaf Herbal Infusion
Eucalyptus leaves can be found online whole fresh, dried or crushed and ground up in tea bags.
An herbal infusion is like “a cup of tea without the tea leaves.” It’s basically a liquid that contains the nutrients released from herbs once they are soaked and allowed to steep.
To make an herbal infusion using eucalyptus leaves, add a handful of fresh leaves to hot water in a glass jar, and let it sit for about eight hours. Then remove the leaves, and drink the water.
You can also use this liquid on your skin to help soothe irritation, or as a face wash for its cleansing effects.
Make a Eucalyptus Leaf Tincture
To make a tincture, put about 8–12 oz. of fresh leaves into a large jar and cover with vodka.
Seal the jar, and leave it at room temperature in a cool, dry place for two weeks, then strain.
Store the tincture in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place. It should keep for several months.
Make a Eucalyptus Leaf Tea
Another way to use the leaves fresh is by brewing them to make an herbal tea, which is a great way to ingest the beneficial compounds in a safe way.
Add several fresh leaves or ½ teaspoon of crushed dried leaves to boiling filtered or distilled water, and let steep for several minutes.
Then strain out the leaves, let the liquid cool a bit, and drink.
You can also stir a bit of honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Growing Your Own Eucalyptus Tree
Eucalyptus plants can be grown at home as a potted shrub, indoors or outdoors, depending on the species.
It grows best in temperate or cool climates outdoors and should be brought inside when the outdoor temperature drops below 50°F.
These plants are considered “heavy feeders” and need lots of sun exposure. They grow well in a variety of soils as long as they are watered and fertilized often, and receive lots of sunlight.
Here are some other homemade recipes you can make at home using eucalyptus leaves whole, fresh or dried:
- Herbal Chest Rub—first make a tincture with the leaves and then combine it with beeswax and coconut oil, then spread over your chest to help ease congestion.
- Skin Salve—first make a tincture with the leaves, add it to a carrier oil together with calendula, then massage over any dry patches of skin (just avoid applying it to open wounds).
- Massage Oil—you can also make a massage oil to help alleviate joint pain, swelling and arthritis. Fill a glass jar with a handful of fresh or dried leaves, then cover with olive, fractionated coconut, jojoba or sweet almond oil. Place the jar with the oil and leaves under direct sunlight for two weeks, strain, and then it is ready to apply to the skin.
- Homemade Cough Drops— first make a eucalyptus tea or herbal infusion, then freeze it using a cough drop tray or silicone gummy candy mold. You can also use ice cube trays but then you’ll have to chop the ice cubes into smaller pieces before using the cough drops.
Precautions
Avoid ingesting eucalyptus essential oil or eucalyptus leaves whole and raw. Doing so can be harmful since the 1,8–cineol content in them is highly concentrated. This phytochemical compound is only safe in minute quantities. Instead, steep them into a tea first, then drink the tea.
Eucalyptus leaves (or the 1,8–cineol contained in them) can rise above therapeutic levels if ingested too frequently or in large quantities and become toxic. Eucalyptol toxicity can manifest in the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and even neurological impairment.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) states that eucalyptus leaves and essential oil is toxic for cats and dogs, and can cause symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, increased salivation, and weakness. In some cases, exposure can even lead to kidney and liver damage. So exercise caution and consult your vet before spraying at home.
Contraindications
Eucalyptus leaves and essential oil might affect blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar levels carefully if you have diabetes. The dose of your diabetes medication may need to be changed. It also might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using eucalyptus at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Topical use of eucalyptus essential oil may not safe for people with hypersensitive skin, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to a lack of safety information.
Use essential oils with extreme caution on children, do not use eucalyptus essential oil on children. It’s also important to note that children are at higher risk of toxicity. Seizures, difficulty breathing, a lowered level of consciousness, and even death have been reported. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, even a 3.5 milliliter dose can be fatal. Some brands clearly label their essential oils “KidSafe” on the bottle if it can be used on children ages 2–10.
Drug Interactions
Some medications, such as (Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) substrates), are changed and broken down by the liver. Eucalyptus might slow down this process increasing the side effects. If you are taking any medications that are changed by the liver, talk to your healthcare provider before using eucalyptus.
Finally, eucalyptus may interact with certain medications, such as those for diabetes, high cholesterol, acid reflux, and psychiatric disorders. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before using it.
Medications that might be affected include amitriptyline (Elavil), clozapine (Clozaril), codeine, desipramine s(Norpramin), donepezil (Aricept), fentanyl (Duragesic), flecainide (Tambocor), fluoxetine (Prozac), meperidine (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), olanzapine (Zyprexa), ondansetron (Zofran), tramadol (Ultram), and trazodone (Desyrel).
Sources:
Eucalyptus Leaves Benefits, Uses & Side Effects (Plus How to Grow)
https://draxe.com/nutrition/eucalyptus-leaves/
By Jillian Levy, CHHC, November 27, 2020
Eucalyptus. Encyclopedia Britannica.
https://www.britannica.com/plant/Eucalyptus
United States Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central search results: Eucalyptus globulus.
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/?query=%22Eucalyptus%20globulus%22
Vecchio MG, Loganes C, Minto C. Beneficial and healthy properties of Eucalyptus plants: a great potential use. The Open Agriculture Journal. 2016;10 (suppl 1:M3):52-57: doi:10.2174/1874331501610010052
Gonzalez-Burgos E, Liaudanskas M, Viskelis J, et al. Antioxidant activity, neuroprotective properties and bioactive constituents analysis of varying polarity extracts from Eucalyptus globulus leaves. J Food Drug Anal. 2018;26(4):1293-1302. doi:10.1016/j.jfda.2018.05.010
National Cancer Institute. Oxidative stress.
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/oxidative-stress
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 7 things to know about complementary health approaches for anxiety.
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/tips-natural-products-for-the-flu-and-colds-what-does-the-science-say
National Capital Poison Center. Can menthol have harmful effects?
https://www.poison.org/articles/what-happens-with-swallowing-or-inhaling-too-much-menthol–174
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Chronic pain: what you need to know.
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/chronic-pain-what-you-need-to-know
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 5 tips: natural products for the flu and colds: What does the science say?
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/tips-natural-products-for-the-flu-and-colds-what-does-the-science-say
National Capital Poison Center. Insect repellents.
https://www.poison.org/articles/insect-repellent
Berman, A. (2003). The 5-minute herb and dietary supplement consult. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Kraft, K., & Hobbs, C. (2004). Pocket guide to herbal medicine. Stuttgart: Thieme.
Nasci, R., Zielinski-Gutierrez, E., Wirtz, R., & Brogdon, W. (2013, August 1). Protection against mosquitoes, ticks, & other insects & arthropods
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2014/chapter-2-the-pre-travel-consultation/protection-against-mosquitoes-ticks-and-other-insects-and-arthropods
Borda LJ, et al. (2016). Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff: A comprehensive review. DOI:
https://dx.doi.org/10.13188%2F2373-1044.1000019
Eucalyptus. (2018).
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/700.html
Hotta M, et al. (2010). Carvacrol, a component of thyme oil, activates PPAR and suppresses COX-2 expression. DOI:
https://dx.doi.org/10.1194%2Fjlr.M900255-JLR200
Burgess IF, et al. (2015). Head lice.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4294162/
Environmental hazards & other noninfectious health risks. (n.d.).
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/noninfectious-health-risks/mosquitoes-ticks-and-other-arthropods
Fischer J, et al. (2013). Efficacy of cineole in patients suffering from acute bronchitis: a placebo-controlled double-blind trial.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24261680/
Greive KA, et al. (2017). The efficacy of Australian essential oils for the treatment of head lice infestation in children: A randomised controlled trial.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28266704/
Ishikawa J, et al. (2012). Eucalyptus increases ceramide levels in keratinocytes and improves stratum corneum function.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21696405/
Kim KY, et al. (2014). The effect of 1,8-cineole inhalation on preoperative anxiety: a randomized clinical trial.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25028591/
Nagata H, et al. (2008). Effect of eucalyptus extract chewing gum on periodontal health: a double-masked, randomized trial.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18672986/
Safety information. (n.d.).
https://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety/
Salari MH, et al. (2006). Antibacterial effects of Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract on pathogenic bacteria isolated from specimens of patients with respiratory tract disorders.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16441463/
Takagi Y, et al. (2018). The efficacy of a pseudo-ceramide and eucalyptus extract containing lotion on dry scalp skin.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29670385/
Types of haemophilus influenzae infections. (n.d.).
https://www.cdc.gov/hi-disease/about/types-infection.html