Let the Soothing Begin with Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus has natural anti-inflammatory properties to rub in and soak in!

I recently found a bag of eucalyptus leaves in the basement as I was (deep) spring cleaning. They were put away years ago after being used decoratively in a vase and wall hanging. I forgot what was in the bag when I found it, but the beautiful smell quickly reminded me there were dried eucalyptus branches inside! Since the wall-hanging days long ago and my natural health interest has peaked with battling cancer, I began wondering how I could put these eucalyptus leaves to use.

What I found was that dried eucalyptus leaves are good for only a few things:

• Eucalyptus Tea: Pour 1 cup of boiled water over up to 1/2 tsp of the dried eucalyptus leaves, Cover and steep for 10 minutes; strain. Sweeten with honey. Drink up to 2-3 cups/day.
• Sachets: Stuff-dried eucalyptus leaves into small cotton or muslin drawstring bag and place in drawers or closets to diffuse the eucalyptus scent.

I also knew that eucalyptus oil could be good for airway congestion. What amazed me, however, was the benefit of using eucalyptus oil for relieving pain from rheumatism, aching, pains and stiffness, swelling and inflammation. Who is getting older and doesn’t have a few aches and pains!  A eucalyptus compress (1 tsp eucalyptus oil, 1 c. hot water, 1 compress pad) has traditionally been known to help treat painful joints and sore muscles with its anti-inflammatory properties! Then, why did I put it on my wall! 🙂

By combining eucalyptus oil with a little bit of olive oil (15 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to 2 cups of cold pressed olive oil) and massaging the solution on arthritic joints, it increases blood circulation, reduces stiffness, warms up and soothes tissue. Sounds wonderful!

Even better, relax in a bathtub to stop the aches and the pain with eucalyptus oil (8-10 drops, some add camphol or menthol oils, too) instead of taking Aleve or Tylenol before bed. This could also be good for someone who is congested, coughing or has a respiratory infection.

I’m going to try putting my eucalyptus leaves in a mesh bag and run it under the tub hot water faucet. It is gardening time and my back muscles are telling me it is time for a good soak! I think I’m going to have to tell my husband we need a new whirlpool tub to enjoy all these eucalyptus leaves! 🙂

Grandma Barton