Eucalyptus leaves: treat sinusitis and coughs

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Extract from the article: Eucalyptus is a tree native to Australia, widely known for its benefits for the respiratory tract. What are the properties of eucalyptus and how is it used for lung health?

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Eucalyptus is a tree native to Australia, widely known for its benefits for the respiratory tract. What are the properties of eucalyptus and how is it used for lung health?

Eucalyptus is a tree widely used in traditional medicine for its virtues. Eucalyptus contains a variety of active compounds, but the essential oil extracted from its leaves is particularly rich in eucalyptol, also known as 1,8-cineole. This substance is mainly responsible for its benefits for the respiratory tract.

Good respiratory health

Eucalyptus has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and expectorant properties. It is used in cases of bronchitis, rhinopharyngitis or laryngitis to ease coughs and liquefy bronchial sputum. It can also be extremely effective against colds, flu and sinusitis, as well as urinary tract infections and candidiasis (fungal infections).

Inhaling eucalyptus vapours helps to clear blocked nasal passages, making breathing easier and reducing congestion. Eucalyptol, the main active compound in eucalyptus oil, has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflammation of the respiratory tract, relieving coughing and throat irritation.

Eucalyptus infusion (30g of leaves per litre of water) is a powerful expectorant and mucus thinner. It has an established reputation for relieving chronic or acute bronchitis.It increases secretions by acting directly on bronchial cells and destroying mucus. As a result, it has an anti-cough action, which is reinforced by an antiseptic action, as eucalyptus inhibits the development of bacteria and fungi.  Some scientific research suggests that eucalyptus may have antiviral properties that can help combat the viruses responsible for the common cold.

A study conducted in Israel to investigate the effects of aromatic essential oils on patients suffering from upper respiratory tract infections demonstrated the effectiveness of an essential oil compound that included the oils of two types of eucalyptus.Just 20 minutes after administration, patients began to feel an improvement in their throat and cough.

Recipe 1: Take 15 dried eucalyptus leaves in 1 litre of water. Boil for about 15 to 20 minutes. Leave to stand and filter.Drink 1 cup 3 times a day (morning, noon and evening).  Add honey if necessary to soften the taste and soothe the throat.

Recipe: Its essential oil (EO) is good for lowering infectious fevers, boosting the defence system and helping to thin coughs and asthma. To boost immunity: 05 drops of EO in 5 drops of a local vegetable oil, rub into the face, nape of the neck and back.

Antipyretic: 2 drops + 1 teaspoon of good honey or on a sugar cube and suck 3-4 times a day.You can make a tea of the leaves with lemon and lemongrass and then drink: 15 medium lemons + 05 handfuls of fresh leaves + 03 handfuls of Adémè. Cut the lemons in half, put half at the bottom of the pot, then put the leaves and the rest of the lemons on top, then cover with water and prepare for 45-60 min with the lid half open.Adult: 1 glass of bamboo (1/4 L) 2-3 times a day.Adolescent: half the adult dose. Children: half the teenage dose.

Precautions: Be aware that there are almost 500 species of eucalyptus, but that they all have similar properties. Eucalyptus essential oil is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women or young children. As a precaution, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Raymond DZAKPATA