Eucalyptus has a long history in folk medicine and scientific research has confirmed its health benefits. Herb specialist Christine Buckley explains that eucalyptus essential oils have been shown to help with sore muscles, indigestion, and other conditions. The active ingredient in eucalyptus oil, eucalyptol, helps to remove mucus from the respiratory tract and relieves coughs and sore throats. Eucalyptus oil also improves concentration, calms the respiratory system, and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
One of the most popular ways to use eucalyptus is in the shower. The warm, moist air helps the oils to evaporate and release their beneficial properties. Inhaling the evaporated oils provides a pleasant and relaxing smell while also offering health benefits such as improved air quality. However, Buckley notes that the effectiveness of eucalyptus diminishes over time, so it’s important to replace the eucalyptus twig in the shower if the smell becomes weak. Keeping a twig in the bathroom after the oils have evaporated is unnecessary and of no use.