Eucalyptus Leaves – Organic, Dried

Description

Eucalyptus leaves come from eucalyptus plants (most often Eucalyptus globulus), which are actually hundreds of related species in the myrtle (Myrtaceae) plant family that are mostly native to Australia.

Eucalyptus species grow as trees, shrubs or house plants (indoor and outdoor) depending on the specific type 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.

Some popular eucalyptus leaves uses include:

• Soothing symptoms of colds and the flu
• Boosting skin health when added to massage oils and bath additives
• Soothing congestion when consumed as a tea
• Adding a fresh, menthol scent to your home when used in aromatherapy

Benefits

Due to the presence of compounds including cineole and flavonoid antioxidants found within eucalyptus leaves, they have been found to have antibacterial, antiseptic and expectorant properties. Below are some of the main benefits and uses of these leaves.

1. High in Antioxidants and Antimicrobial Compounds

These leaves are packed with protective terpenes, flavonoids and other antioxidants, including:

• eucalyptol (also called cineole)
• catechins
• quercetin
•  isorhamnetin
• luteolin
• limolene
• kaempferol
• phloretin

These compounds can generally help fight oxidative stress and support the immune system due to their anti-inflammatory effects. They may also have pain-killing properties and can potentially help reduce joint pain when applied to topically.

2. Help Loosen Phlegm and Coughs

According to research studies, eucalyptus makes a great natural treatment for common respiratory issues. An added benefit of inhaling this plant’s scent is that it can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and blood pressure. To get these benefits, the leaves can be steamed and inhaled or made into a topical treatment that can be applied to the chest.

3. May Help Manage Asthma Symptoms

One particular terpene compound found in these leaves, called cineole/eucalyptol, has been shown in some studies to help improve asthma symptoms. In one study, 600 milligrams of eucalyptol per day was compared to a placebo among adults with asthma over the course of 12 weeks.

The group taking eucalyptol experienced a decreased need for steroid medications used to control symptoms, significantly more so than the placebo group.

How to Use

Eucalyptus leaf is 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.

• Herbal Infusion— 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 steeped/soaked. To make one using eucalyptus, 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 liquid on your skin to help soothe irritation and for its cleansing effects.
• Tincture — To make a tincture, put a half pound or so of fresh leaves into a large jar and cover with vodka. Seal the jar, and leave it for two weeks, then strain. Store the tincture in a sealed jar in a cool, dry area. It should stay good for several months.
• Herbal Tea — Another way to use fresh leaves is by brewing them to make herbal tea, which is great to sip on if you feel congested. Add several fresh leaves or half a teaspoon of crushed dried leaves to very hot water, and let it steep for several minutes. Then take out the leaves, and drink it once it’s cooled a bit.

How do I dry the 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 a glass jar to keep them fresh.

Can I boil eucalyptus leaves and drink it?

Yes, you can turn the fresh leaves into tea or use them to make tinctures. See above for directions.

How can you use eucalyptus leaves in the shower?

Hang the leaves on their stem in your shower, or add them to your bath. The steam will help release the beneficial compounds.

You can also add some to a bowl with warm water and inhale the steam/vapors coming off. If using the bowl method, consider placing a damp towel over the top of your head to help keep the steam near your face.

Risks and Side Effects

Is eucalyptus leaf poisonous? It’s important not to consume eucalyptus essential oil internally or to eat the raw leaves.

Eucalyptus leaf can potentially be toxic and result in side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and even neurological changes.

Avoid consuming even small amounts of the leaves, instead preparing them via steeping or steaming first.

*FrescoHealth.com does not make any medical claims, seek a physician first.