Medical Use of Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus is an Australian evergreen tree. The therapeutic effect of eucalyptus leaves was first realized by the aboriginal people of Australia. It became a traditional remedy that cured diseases. It is used by people throughout the world in the form of pills, inhalers, ointments and salves for a variety of ailments. Eucalyptus aids in the treatment of colds, flu, bronchitis, chest congestion, respiratory infections and pneumonia. Eucalyptus leaves are a potent antiseptic and anti-bacterial agent and often used externally in the treatment of small cuts, wounds, burns, sores and ulcers.
Herbal and Medicinal Uses of Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus leaves are coriaceous in appearance and contain aromatic antioxidant compounds like anthocyanins and flavones, tannin (phenolic substances of plant origin) and essential oils. These oils have abundant plant nutrients like cineole, a volatile oil with an odor of camphor and used especially as an expectorant and flavoring agent.
Internally, eucalyptus leaves seem to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory illness such as pharyngitis (inflammation of the pharynx), bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes) and pneumonia (inflammation of the lung parenchyma). Eucalyptus leaves come in pills and liquids. It can also be taken with tea or tincture. The semisolid preparation of eucalyptus leaves (called ointment) is applied externally as a remedy for pain of rheumatism (any painful disorder of the joints or muscles), neuralgia (acute spasmodic pain along the course of one or more nerves) and stiffness. The ointment is also applied topically for soothing an irritation. Eucalyptus leaves appear to work well as an insectifuge for mosquitoes and fleas. Inhaling the vapors coming out of boiled eucalyptus leaves is a familiar herbal remedy for asthma (respiratory disorder characterized by wheezing), congestion (excessive accumulation of blood in a body part) and other respiratory disorders.
Precautions and Side Effects
Moderate use of eucalyptus is considerably safe but those with pre-existent kidney or liver problems should not take eucalyptus leaves continuously for several days because excessive amounts can be harmful.
Eucalyptus supplements should be kept out of reach of children. They are also not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Old and chronically ill persons should take the supplements in moderation. Eucalyptus supplementation is not advisable for diabetic patients because they appear to affect blood-sugar levels.
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