Is Eucalyptus Oil Good For Sinus And Nasal Congestion?
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is widely used for medicinal purposes. Various parts of the eucalyptus tree, like the bark, leaves, and root, are used for medicinal needs. Eucalyptus essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the tree. This oil is known for its robust healing properties (1), (2). Eucalyptus oil is used to get relief from nasal congestion and sinus inflammation. It contains 1, 8-cineole, which was found to help reduce nasal congestion (3). The oil also possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (4), (5). This can help reduce inflammation in the sinus cavities and reduce pain. Caution: Eucalyptus oil can be quite strong in its pure form. Hence, ensure you dilute it before applying it to your skin.
Ways To Use Eucalyptus Oil To Treat Sinus And Blocked Nose
There are two main ways of using eucalyptus oil to treat sinus and nasal congestion.
1. Steam Inhalation
Eucalyptus essential oil is a good antiseptic. Steam inhalation of the oil is considered beneficial for nasal congestion (5). This method may help in relieving cold, blocked nose, and headache. You Will Need
Eucalyptus essential oil A tub of hot water
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This Do this 2 times a day.
2. Dilution
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the dilution method may be convenient when the nose blockage or sinus is quite intense. In this method, carrier oil is used with eucalyptus oil. The carrier oil may make the effect of the essential oil more tolerable. You Will Need
1-5 drops of eucalyptus oil 1 ounce of a carrier oil (Olive oil or almond oil)
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This Apply the oil once a day. Though many practice the topical application of pure eucalyptus oil for relief from sinus and clogged nose, it is not safe as it can burn the skin. It is important to always dilute the oil in a carrier oil before using it. There are certain precautions one should take while using eucalyptus oil.
Precautions
Eucalyptus oil in the raw form can burn one’s skin. It might prove to be harmful to people with sensitive skin and skin issues. Eucalyptus oil should not be used by kids. Exposure to the essential oil may cause poisoning in infants and children (6). Pregnant women should avoid using oil.
Can you apply eucalyptus oil directly to skin? No, you should not apply eucalyptus oil directly to the skin. You should dilute it with a carrier oil and then apply it. How long should you inhale eucalyptus? You can inhale eucalyptus oil for a few minutes until you feel relief. Don’t inhale it for too long through steam inhalation as it can be very strong. Opt for inhalation treatment twice a day for best results. Is it good to sleep with eucalyptus oil? You can apply a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser to get a good night’s sleep free from congestion. You can also apply it to your hair, but dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut, argan, olive, or jojoba oil first. Can eucalyptus damage lungs? Eucalyptus oil may irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled for too long or used directly without dilution. If you are allergic to eucalyptus, avoid using it. Can I put eucalyptus oil on my pillow? You can dab a few drops on a cloth or tissue and place it inside the pillowcase. But, make sure it does not get into your eyes. Does eucalyptus clean the air? Eucalyptus is often added to diffusers to cleanse the air indoors, making it easier to breathe. Is eucalyptus good for anxiety? Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol, which may help reduce anxiety.
