Respiratory: Helps loosen mucus and reduce infections of the throat and lungs for mucus reduction (approved by the German Commission e for this). Cough, colds, rhinosinusitis, laryngitis, flu, sinusitis, nasal congestion, bronchitis (chronic and acute), bronchial asthma and pneumonia, rhinitis (runny nose), ear infection (oil placed BEHIND the ear or diffused), and sore throat

Gastrointestinal: Stomach ailments, liver, intestinal parasites, plaque and gingivitis, nausea

Genitourinary: Vaginitis, cystitis

Musculoskeletal: Rheumatism, arthritis, cramps, gout, helps decrease muscle pain and stiffness, reduces inflammation.

Skin: Eucalyptus has many uses for the skin. It topically helps treat skin wounds and burns, acne (Eucalyptus dives and Eucalyptus polybactea), faster healing, herpes, including shingles pain, chickenpox, insect bites, lice, and oily skin.

Glucose: May help lower blood sugar

Neurologic: Headaches, neuralgia and neuropathy

Mental health: Increases energy, helps with relaxation

Infectious Disease: Malaria, typhus, measles

Other: It removes airborne bacteria (including staph) and odors via an air purifier. It can also be used as an insect (including tick) repellant.

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SIDE EFFECTS: Oils must be diluted; otherwise, you can experience severe adverse reactions. If you take it orally, it can be fatal. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, low blood sugar, arrhythmia (heart irregularity), incoordination, dyspnea (shortness of breath), skin discoloration, and seizures are signs of overdose.

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not take with certain medications as eucalyptus works on many P450 enzyme systems: 1A2 (examples: Elavil, Haldol, Zofran, Propanalol), 2C19 (Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix and others), CYP3A (for example erythromycin and some statins), 2C9, and 3A4 (examples: ibuprofen, Coumadin). It may lower blood sugar too much in those taking diabetic medication.

FORMS: Oils, washes, cough drops, gum, linaments and rubs, repellants, soaps, deodorants, creams, gels, creams, and even toothpaste. (Vicks is a combination of substances—one of which is eucalyptus). Because of its safety profile, eucalyptus should not be taken internally without speaking with your healthcare provider because of its safety profile. There is only one safe eucalyptus oil for oral use (flavoring): eucalyptol.

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

No recommended brands available at this time

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts and application methods, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Eucalyptus products vary widely in formulation, including essential oils, rubs, steam inhalation preparations, and topical blends. Essential oils are typically diluted before use, and only small amounts are used for steam inhalation or topical applications. Dilution strength depends on the purpose and the specific product.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Eucalyptus has been used traditionally in diluted topical preparations, steam inhalations, and aromatic applications for comfort during congestion or muscle aches. Traditional practices emphasize using only small, diluted amounts due to the potency of essential oils.

Eucalyptus oils come in several strengths depending on the part of the tree used, and some forms are considered more appropriate for certain uses than others.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.