Today, oil from the eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus) appears in many over-the-counter cough and cold products to relieve congestion. Eucalyptus oil is also used in creams and ointments to relieve muscle and joint pain, and in some mouthwashes.

In its native Australia, the eucalyptus tree is the main food for koalas. It has been used in the past as an antiseptic to kill germs. The oil was used in traditional Aboriginal medicines to heal wounds and fungal infections. Teas made of eucalyptus leaves were also used to reduce fevers. Eucalyptus was soon used in other traditional medicine systems, including Chinese, Indian (Ayurvedic), and Greek and European.

In 19th century England, eucalyptus oil was used in hospitals to clean urinary catheters. Laboratory studies later showed that eucalyptus oil contains substances that kill bacteria. It also may kill some viruses and fungi. Studies in animals and test tubes show that eucalyptus oil acts as an expectorant, meaning it helps coughs by loosening phlegm.

​

Precautions and warnings:

DO NOT take eucalyptus oil by mouth unless your doctor tells you to. Ingesting eucalyptus oil can be dangerous.

DO NOT give a child eucalyptus orally (by mouth) because it is toxic. DO NOT give cough drops containing eucalyptus to children under 6.

For a cold, DO NOT put eucalyptus oil, salve, or chest rub on the face or nose of a child under 2. Ask your doctor before using preparations that contain eucalyptus oil as a chest rub for your child or to inhale steam for congestion.

Adult

DO NOT take eucalyptus oil orally (by mouth) except under your doctor's supervision due to toxicity.

Precautions

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. However, herbs can trigger side effects, and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.

For adults, eucalyptus oil is generally safe when applied to the skin. DO NOT put eucalyptus oil, salve, or chest rub on the face or nose of a child under 2.

People with asthma, seizures, liver disease, kidney disease, or low blood pressure should not use eucalyptus without first talking to their doctors.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use eucalyptus.

Eucalyptus oil is toxic when taken by mouth. DO NOT ingest eucalyptus oil except under your doctor's supervision.

Possible Interactions

You should never take eucalyptus orally. It is toxic if consumed by mouth, and may interact with several medications. If you are currently taking medications that are processed by the liver, speak with your physician before using eucalyptus

​

(Information above is from Mount Sinai Medical Center)

​

​