Uses

The essential oil of the eucalyptus leaves inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses, loosens thick mucus, is mildly antispasmodic, is deodorising and cooling. Drinking an infusion of eucalyptus leaves or inhaling with eucalyptus oil soothes sore throats, bronchitis and chronic bronchitis and loosens phlegm and relieves nasal congestion in colds. The essential oil is absorbed by the body and eliminated partly via the lungs. The cooling and mildly rubefacient eucalyptus oil is also contained in many ointments for treatment of rheumatism and gout.