Fine, D. H., Furgang, D., Barnett, M. L., Drew, C., Steinberg, L., Charles, C. H., and Vincent, J. W. Effect of an essential oil-containing antiseptic mouthrinse on plaque and salivary Streptococcus mutans levels. J Clin Periodontol. 2000;27(3):157-161. View abstract. Has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that are effective at treating wounds, burns, cuts, abrasions, sores and scrapes. Darben T, Cominos B, Lee CT. Topical eucalyptus oil poisoning. Australas J Dermatol 1998;39:265-7. View abstract. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

While it’s an ingredient in the vapour rubs commonly used to ease congestion in children, it’s important to note that, due to its rapid absorption, eucalyptus oil can be highly toxic to children. Because of this, it’s vital to keep eucalyptus oil out of reach of children (in an Australian telephone survey, 74 per cent of preschoolers had gained access to eucalyptus oil via a home vapourising unit placed on the floor). And while 82 per cent of children with eucalyptus oil poisoning remained asymptomatic, there have been far more serious cases: toxicity in children can lead to vomiting, drowsiness, headaches, seizures, coma and even death. Hanging dried eucalyptus leaves in your bathroom will infuse the steam from your bath or shower with the invigorating scent. Clever, eh? 🌿 Over-the-counter eucalyptus products Burkhard PR, Burkhardt K, Haenggeli CA, Landis T. Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. J Neurol 1999;246:667-70. View abstract. People often try to strengthen their immune system by upping the vitamins and minerals in their diet. But what if essential oils played a part, too? A study published in BMC Immunology has shown eucalyptus oil to be highly promising in the immunity department, with researchers finding that it enhances the immune system’s phagocytic response to pathogens. In other words, it increases the body’s white blood cell count when germs are present. 4. High antioxidant levels In Australia, the eucalyptus has been the tree of folklore where children sing of the “kookaburra in the gum tree.” Where also children and aborigines, enjoy the sweet flakes of the manna gum. It is also the main food for the Koala Bear.

In addition to soothing dry skin, eucalyptus provides another benefit that’s especially useful during the sunny summer months: it can cool and refresh your skin.

Maruniak, J., Clark, W. B., Walker, C. B., Magnusson, I., Marks, R. G., Taylor, M., and Clouser, B. The effect of 3 mouthrinses on plaque and gingivitis development. J Clin Periodontol. 1992;19(1):19-23. View abstract. Eucalyptus works to keep ants, mosquitoes, and other annoying buys away from you and your family! (Speaking of unwanted bugs, eucalyptus oil is also hailed as a home remedy for head lice.) Nelson, R. F., Rodasti, P. C., Tichnor, A., and Lio, Y. L. Comparative study of four over-the-counter mouthrinses claiming antiplaque and/or antigingivitis benefits. Clin Prev.Dent. 1991;13(6):30-33. View abstract. Eucalyptus can produce irritation and a burning sensation. It should not be used too close to the eyes.

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Sai Chandar D, Prashanthi M, Laxman Kumar C, Amith Kumar C. Eucalyptus Oil-Induced Seizures in Children: A Single-Center Prospective Study. Cureus 2021;13(3):e14109. View abstract. Spiridonov, N. A., Arkhipov, V. V., Foigel, A. G., Shipulina, L. D., and Fomkina, M. G. Protonophoric and uncoupling activity of royleanones from Salvia officinalis and euvimals from Eucalyptus viminalis. Phytother.Res. 2003;17(10):1228-1230. View abstract.