What is Eucalyptus Oil?

Eucalyptus oil is distilled from the leaf of Eucalyptus, native to Australia. Eucalyptus oil has a history of application as a pharmaceutical, antiseptic, repellent, flavouring, fragrance and industrial uses. The leaves of selected Eucalyptus globulus species are steam distilled to extract pure eucalyptus oil. China produces about 75% of the product globally, but most of this is derived from camphor laurel rather than being true eucalyptus oil.

Eucalyptus oil helps relieve the symptoms of influenza and colds, and may have antibacterial effects on pathogenic bacteria in the respiratory tract. Inhaled eucalyptus oil vapour may be a decongestant and treatment for bronchitis. Pre-clinical results also show that eucalyptus oil stimulates innate cell-mediated immune response by effects on the phagocytic ability of human monocyte derived macrophages.