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Use Refreshing Eucalyptus Sprigs in the Shower or Bath

With its refreshing scent, it's no surprise that eucalyptus is having its moment in the limelight as an addition to your daily shower or bath.

28/05/2022

 

 

 

 

Eucalyptus Tree (blue gum)

More commonly known in South Africa as the Blue Gum, Eucalyptus is a tree that is indigenous to Australia but grows all over the world and is commonly used for its healing power. Eucalyptus is commonly used in healing in relation to coughs and colds despite only limited scientific evidence of any healing properties. In fact, eucalyptus is an essential oil used in many health-related products that ease congestion via inhalation. Research into this aspect has shown that eucalyptus can decrease mucus production and relieve nasal congestion and help with relief for those suffering with colds and flu.

 

 

Here in South Africa, blue gum trees can be found in parks and natural grasslands and forests and is recognisable by its pale grey leaves. When crushed, the leaves emit a wonderful, scented aroma that instantly refreshes.

 

 

Use the power of steam in a shower or bathtub to release eucalyptus essential oils when your body needs a boost, or you are feeling the effects of colds or flu.

 

 

 

 

Relief from Congestion and Inflammation

Understanding how eucalyptus aids in relief from the symptoms of colds and flu it is no surprise to find that adding sprigs or small branches of freshly cut eucalyptus to hang in a shower or bathtubs has become a popular trend. When exposed to heat and steam, eucalyptus sprigs release eucalyptol, a compound found in eucalyptus, tea tree oil and other commonly known plants with healing properties and fill the air with camphor and menthol scents. Eucalyptol has shown to be effective as an any-inflammatory and chronic inflammation.

 

 

Eucalyptus is effective as a boost to the immune system and assists in relieving congestion - making it the perfect addition for a bathroom during the colder months of the year.

 

 

 

 

An easy place to buy fresh eucalyptus branches to hang in a shower or over a bathtub is at your local florist or supplier of freshly cut flowers.

 

 

 

 

Relaxation Properties

Another common use for Eucalyptus oil is as an aid in reducing anxiety and assisting in reducing blood pressure by working on the sympathetic nervous system. Reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation is something many of us need and now you can easily get your fix simply by hanging eucalyptus sprigs over your showerhead or bathtub mixer or taps.

 

 

Where to Find Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus branches are commonly used as fillers in floral arrangements and bouquets and can be purchased at florists and stores that supply fresh flowers. Eucalyptus is considered an invasive plant in South Africa and many trees can be found in local parks, open veld, and surrounding areas.

 

 

Further reading:

Discusses eucalyptus species, their origin, habitat and uses (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus)

Uses for eucalyptus as a health-related compound for dealing with various ailments(https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/700.html)

Many uses for eucalyptus oil (https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/alternative-health/useful-eucalyptus-many-uses-eucalyptus/)

8 Benefits of Eucalyptus (https://www.medicinenet.com/what_are_the_benefits_of_eucalyptus_8_benefits/article.htm)

Overview of use of Eucalyptus as a treatment (https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-700/eucalyptus)

Eucalyptus for the treatment of pain and chronic inflammation (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3703330/)

Antimicrobial and immune-modifying effects of Eucalyptus oil (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20359267/)