Local Mum and holistic therapist Evi Achillea offers her advice about safely and effectively easing the symptoms of those inevitable winter bugs
I am aware that lots of people suffer from colds and flu at this time of the year. To address this fact, I would like to share and recommend the use of Aromatherapy in our daily routine to eliminate the causes of diseases starting with one of the most beneficial essential oils: Eucalyptus
Therapeutic actions:
The therapeutic properties of eucalyptus oil are analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-neuralgic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, astringent, balsamic, cicatrisant, decongestant, deodorant, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycaemic, rubefacient, stimulant,vermifuge and vulnerary.
Systems/conditions that benefit from its use:
Eucalyptus oil has a cooling and deodorizing effect on the body. For the respiratory tract, it helps with coughs, asthma, throat infections, sinusitis and catarrhal conditions. Eucalyptus oil is a powerful respiratory aid and has a strong influence on breathing. It has a reputation as a good expectorant (promotes removal of mucous from respiratory system) and cough suppressant. Specifically, Eucalyptus aromatherapy essential oil is helpful for easing inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes, as well as nasal congestion.
For treating bronchial problems use Eucalyptus oil as an inhalant, or diffuse in the air. You can also use in a dilution of light coconut oil or jojoba and apply liberally to the chest and upper back areas. It stimulates oxygen uptake in our cell tissues and increases circulation. Increased oxygenation in the lungs promotes the cleansing and repair function of our red blood cells.
Eucalyptus oil is an excellent blood cleanser and helpful for regenerating lung tissue and function. A fever reducer Eucalyptus oil is helpful for relieving fevers that arise from infectious diseases. Eucalyptus is useful in cooling compresses! Apply to the forehead, back of neck, over the kidneys and pelvic region. Its action is similar to Peppermint's and only a small amount is needed otherwise it may produce a chilling effect.
Eucalyptus oil brings to mind the family medicine cabinet. Certainly many traditional, as well as modern day medicines contain Eucalyptus. It can furthermore boost the immune system. Powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties may be effective in the treatment of a broad spectrum of infections. Eucalyptus pure essential oil has been used to treat tuberculosis, malaria and is helpful in cases of chicken pox, colds, flu and measles. In skin care it can be used for burns, blisters, cuts, wounds, skin infections, cold sores, skin ulcers, shingles and insect bites.
Eucalyptus oil is also very helpful when used for headaches, fevers, ailments of the respiratory tract, muscular aches and pains and in skin care. It has a soothing and calming effect on the whole body and helps with the immune system.
The oil is also effective against bacteria - especially staphylococci, and has a refreshing and stimulating action on the mind, helping to improve concentration.
Most beneficial/suitable methods of use:
Burners and vaporizers
In vapour therapy, eucalyptus oil may be used for: frequent sneezing, hay fever, flu, respiratory problems, as insect repellent, headaches and for helping to improve concentration.
Blended massage oil or in the bath
Eucalyptus oil can be used in blended massage oil, or diluted in the bath, to assist with arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, mucous congestion, colds, headaches, rheumatism, sinusitis, catarrh, fatigue and muscular aches and pains.
In a cream or lotion
Apart from giving pain relief to muscular spasms and rheumatism, eucalyptus oil can also help speed up the healing of slow healing wounds and ulcers, calm skin eruptions and clear congested skin.
Used neat or dab on with a bud
Eucalyptus oil can be used neat on the skin for insect bites or wounds, but care should be taken when doing so.
Gargle
When diluted eucalyptus oil is added to a gargle, it can be used for soothing a sore throat.
Safety data
Eucalyptus oil should be used with care. People with high blood pressure, gallbladder disease and epilepsy should avoid it. Excessive use of this oil may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. In case of digestive upset we should reduce the dose.
Evi
Evi Achillea,
Handy Therapies
For more information or advice, please contact:
Evi Achillea
Owner
Handy Therapies
Tel: 07528337068
Email: evi73@hotmail.co.uk
www.handytherapies.co.uk
