Aromatherapy series: wellbeing and skin benefits of eucalyptus oil
The sharp aroma of eucalyptus is a scent most of us have encountered, whether through its decongesting actions or for its ability to ease discomfort. In essence, eucalyptus essential oil acts like a mini first aid kit.
There are hundreds of species of eucalyptus, however, only 20 types produce enough yield for commercial use and viability, with eucalyptus globulus, radiata and citriodora the most prominently used within the aromatherapy industry.
Eucalyptus is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to Australia, and it is growing in abundance. The tree flourishes with green leaves which show flecks of essential oil when held up to the light.
Distilled using steam extraction to draw out the many therapeutic and aromatic properties, the leaves and twigs of the tree produce a colourless liquid with a sharp, fresh, camphorous aroma, with hints of menthol and thyme, often compared to being medicinal like.
Why is eucalyptus oil good for the skin?
While eucalyptus essential oil is mainly known for its benefits to the respiratory system, it is also well regarded for its anti-inflammatory, healing and cleansing properties for the skin. It is suitable to be used across all skin types and can help purify and decongest oilier skin types, while also soothing and nurturing dry and irritated skin.
Recent lab studies have shown that eucalyptus has the potential to increase production of ceramides within the epidermis to maintain skin moisture and maintain the essential components of the skin’s barrier function, making this aromatic oil ideally suited for those with ageing skin.
Eucalyptus can be found across formulations within Eve Taylor London’s Soothing Range, created for dry, mature and menopausal skin types. Blended with essential oils of geranium, lavender and cypress, this range supports the signs of ageing and boosts natural radiance.
Why is eucalyptus good for overall wellbeing?
Eucalyptus essential oil and its varieties are most frequently used due to its wide-ranging actions for promoting wellbeing. While many actions of eucalyptus are supported through scientific research, anecdotal experience through thousands of years has paved the way to its use in holistic and ayurvedic practices.
Eucalyptus offers potent purifying effects and has an extensive composition of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, and aromatic phenols, oxides, ethers, alcohols, esters, aldehydes and ketones.
This complex structure gives powerful expectorant and antiseptic properties and why the oil is stereotypically used for its ability to assist with the loosening of phlegm, easing of congestion and aiding clear breathing when inhaled, these reasons alone are why it is used so extensively within vapour rubs and home remedies for colds.
Eucalyptus radiata is especially beneficial for use during the colder winter months and boasts a softer, more minty aroma, which is ideal for diffusing, especially around children, and promotes a refreshing tonic to help clear congestion.
Eucalyptus radiata is found in Eve Taylor London’s Winter Diffuser Blend – a synergy of deeply purifying essential oils to promote a decongesting effect while refreshing the air and encouraging easy breathing during times of chills and ills. For those who like aromatherapy on-the-go, the blend is available in a wearable treatment gel.
Did you know…
Tasmania in Australia holds the title for the world’s largest eucalyptus tree, named Centurion, at a staggering height of 330ft. While this region of the world holds the accolade, eucalyptus also grows in various locations around the world.
