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Eucalyptus Herb - Uses And Side Effects

Herbal eucalyptus products come from the leaves of the eucalyptus globulus labill plant. The herb was first used more than 100 years ago to relieve stuffy nose.

Eucalyptus is a diverse genus of trees (rarely shrubs), the members of which dominate the tree flora of Australia . There are almost 600 species of Eucalyptus , mostly native to Australia, with a very small number found in adjacent parts of New Guinea and Indonesia .

Eucalyptus trees have dotted the Australian landscape for millions of years, and today they are probably the most common trees on the continent. Eucalyptus, able to survive poor soil, dry spells, and fire, is hardy enough to have spread throughout much of the land and take a central place in the lives of the forest's wildlife.

Common doses of eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is available as an oil and a lotion. Some experts recommend the following doses:

• For various uses, 0.05 to 0.2 milliliters of eucalyptol, 0.05 to 0.2 milliliter of eucalyptus oil, or 2 to 4 grams of fluid extract taken orally.
• For topical use, mix 30 milliliters of oil with 500 milliliters of water

Use eucalyptus herb

• Nasal congestion
• Asthma
• Coughs and aid in digestion

Side effects of eucalyptus

Call your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of eucalyptus:

• bluish gray skin
• burning sensation in the stomach
• delirium
• dizziness
• muscle weakness
• nausea
• small pupils

Eucalyptus also can cause seizures

Interactions

Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Tell your health care practitioner about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you're taking.

Important points to remember

• Avoid eucalyptus products if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Don't use eucalyptus oil if you're taking drugs or other treatments to lower your blood sugar.
• Dilute the herb before you swallow it or apply it to your skin.
• Keep eucalyptus oil away from children and pets.

What the research shows

Although many people take eucalyptus, scientists have little information to support claims for its medicinal use. Until researchers test the herb's ability to combat infections, medical experts recommend using established drugs, not eucalyptus, to treat infections.

Other names for eucalyptus : -

Other names for eucalyptus include fevertree, gum tree, and Tasmanian blue gum.

Products containing eucalyptus are sold under such names as Eucalyptamint and Eucalyptus Oil.

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