Nar Kachur Essential Oil

Nar-katchur-bannerCan Turmeric be white? Yes! And here it is. Much similar to Turmeric, Nar Kachur herb is known as White Turmeric. Then am I not right in calling it as White Gold?

Indigenous to India and Indonesia, Nar Kachur is a well-liked herb found all over in the Indian sub-tropical regions.  Popularly known as Zedoary, the essential oil of Nar Kachur is extracted from the rhizomes of the plant Curcuma zedoaria, which is a member of the ginger family Zingiberaceae.

The world of Ayurveda acclaims this herb and its oil as an excellent digestive aid and in particular it has been used in this holistic medicinal system as a gastrointestinal stimulant. Nar Kachur essential oil is also used in the Traditional Chinese Medicine in the treatment of numerous chronic disorders including cancer.

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Historical uses of Nar Kachur:

Known with many popular names across the world, Zedoary was a not so familiar herb in the Western world until it was spread across as a popular spice reminding of ginger, turmeric and mango put together.

It is known as Karchur in Sanskrit, Kachur in Hindi, Meitei Yaingang in Manipuri, Zedoary in English, Ezhu You in Chinese and Shatkachuro in Gujarati. This herb is spread across the natural beds of the Eastern Himalayan region and Karnataka and is cultivated in many countries.

The fresh Nar Kachur herb is used in Indian cooking and also in preparing pickles mainly because of its gingery-mango and energizing taste. It is locally called as amb halad where amb means mango.  Indonesians use Nar Kachur paste in preparing traditional curries.

The powdered herb was used in treating menstrual pain and for regularizing menstruation. Nar Kachur is trusted to tone the uterus and benefit the reproductive system in numerous ways. The ancient people used it as a natural aphrodisiac agent for its stimulating properties.

The juice extracted from the rhizomes of this plant was used in curing infections in the urinary tract and treat other urinary disorders with its diuretic properties. It also serves as an effective remedy in treating colic and flatulence.

Zedoary or Nar Kachur is still used in the Indian folklore medicine as an anti-venom for poisonous snake bites like the Indian Cobra bites. The fresh paste of this herb has been in use for treating wounds, pain, inflammation and certain other skin problems.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Nar Kachur Oil:

Curzerene, curcumenol, germacrone, zederone, curmanolide A, furanodienone, curcumenone, beta-elemene, pyridine, tau-elemene, isocurcumenol and numerous other components form a part of Zedoary essential oil. The remedial values of this oil are stomachic, diuretic, aphrodisiac, stimulant, anti-inflammatory, carminative, analgesic and emmenagogue.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Nar Kachur essential oil:

As a member of the Ayurvedic family Adrak kul, Nar Kachur is an effective herb that treats many health conditions.

Ayurveda is a holistic healing system that trusts human beings as a part of nature and any medication for their illness are readily available in nature itself. With this underlying principle, Ayurvedic therapy revolves around natural remedies like herbs, Ayurvedic essential oils, healthy and balanced diet, yoga, physical exercises and meditation.

Every individual is diagnosed in a unique manner in Ayurveda as it appreciates individual differences and believes that every human being is made up of 3 vital energy elements known as doshas. They are vata, kapha and pitta doshas where vata represents air as its major element, pitta stands for fire and kapha signifies water.

Every person is said to have any one these doshas as a predominant dosha and this predominance determines the Ayurvedic body type, personality, character and certain other behavioral attributes.

According to Ayurveda, vata energy controls the process of metabolism and elimination of toxins from the body. Pitta influences digestion, brain power, energy creation and body temperature and kapha governs the flow of fluids in the body like blood, mucous etc, while contributing to skin health, strength and lubrication of muscles and joints.

Balance between these three doshas indicates that a person is hale and hearty and the imbalance of any one of these or all the three doshas ends up in illnesses.

Your first Ayurvedic consultation with the expert will help you identify your predominant body type, individual constitution, diet that suits your health and physical and mental exercises that would help you in preventing diseases in the future.

Nar Kachur essential oil suppresses excess vata and kapha energies and aids in increasing pitta dosha in case of deficit. This is the main reason that Nar Kachur and its essential oil are helpful in treating digestive disorders, respiratory problems and impurities in the blood while enhancing the natural health of one’s skin.

Let’s have a look at the major Ayurvedic health benefits of Zedoary or Nar Kachur essential oil.

Nar-katchur-broucher1. Excellent digestive aid:

Since the prehistoric period, Nar Kachur herb is used to treat problems in the digestive system especially in the gastrointestinal tract. This herb and its essential oil are said to be beneficial in treating indigestion, colic, loss of appetite, spasms, flatulence, infestation of worms, tastelessness and irregular bowel movement. It is considered as a natural aid for preventing ulceration due to stress.

Nar Kachur oil is proven safe for using it on the skin. Add 3 drops of Nar Kachur essential oil with almond oil and gently massage it on your tummy for relieving from colic, dyspepsia, flatulence, indigestion, irregular bowel movement and spasms.

You can also add 2 drops of this oil to warm bathing water for stimulating your digestion, improving your appetite and assist in expelling the worms through excretion. Adding 2 to 3 drops of Zedoary oil to your diffuser will also help in enhancing your appetite, reducing vomiting sensation and promoting speedy digestive process.

2. Treats respiratory problems:

Respiratory problems mainly occur due to the excess of kapha dosha, due to which fluids like mucous and phlegm gets deposited in the lungs and other parts of the body. It blocks the nasal passages and ends up in breathing difficulties and other respiratory disorders like cough, asthma and cold.

Adding 3 drops of Nar Kachur oil to steaming water and inhaling the medicated steam releasing the camphoraceous aroma of this oil can assist you in loosening the phlegm and mucous deposits and ease breathing. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in your rubs and gently massage it on your neck, chest and back to treat congestion, cold and blocked nose.

3. Relieves pain and inflammation:

As an effective anti-inflammatory agent, Nar Kachur oil helps in treating wounds, inflammation and certain other skin ailments. This herb was used in the Indonesian fold medicine for its effective anti-inflammatory property specifically in treating ulcerative colitis known as an inflammatory bowel disease. It was also used in protecting the lungs of the asthmatic patients by restraining the release of inflammatory mediators during the short-term treatment.

The diuretic properties of this oil supports in eliminating the excess fluids and toxic substances in the body especially in the joints causing pain and inflammation in case of rheumatism and arthritis. It is also used in reducing the body temperature during fever by promoting sweat and purging infectious microbes through urine.

Nar Kachur essential oil is also effective in treating abdominal pain, amenorrhea and certain other menstrual problems. Add 3 drops of this oil to warm bathing water or to hot compress to help relieve rheumatic pain, inflammation and menstrual discomforts. You can also blend 4 to 5 drops of Nar Kachur oil with coconut oil and gently massage it on the affected area for quicker assistance.

4. Fights against cancerous cells:

A 2013 research on ‘Zedoary oil (Ezhu You) inhibits proliferation of AGS cells’ proves that Zedoary, a Chinese medicinal herb has anticancer properties. This study concluded saying, “Zedoary oil inhibited AGS cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis promotion, which were related to Bax/Bcl-2 protein expression.”

Another study on ‘Applications of Nanoparticles in Herbal Medicine: Zedoary Turmeric Oil and Its Active Compound beta-elemene’ published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine states that Zedoary turmeric oil has been approved by the Chinese SFDA as safe for treating various cancerous tumors that affect ovaries, brain, lungs, colon, breast, liver and certain other tissues.

Other uses:

Nar Kachur oil is also used as a mosquito repellant by applying it on the skin after blending it with almond or coconut oil. This herb has also been proved effective in the treatment of gonorrhea, erectile dysfunction, urinary problems, hiccups, blood disorders, piles and certain other skin problems.  Nar Kachur essential oil is also used in soap fabrication and perfumeries.

Disclaimer:

Never use essential oils internally. Always remember to use essential oils in a diluted form as pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids. Consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before using the right essential oil for your unique constitution and health conditions.

Thought for the day:

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.      -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Suggested Reading:

  1. Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease Nutrition Desk Reference from CRC Press
  2. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy & Herbalism by Julia Lawless
  3. Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: The Most Complete guide to Natural Healing and Health with Traditional Ayurvedic Herbalism by Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, Michael Tierra

Reference Links:

  1. Curcuma zedoaria by Wikipedia
  2. Biological and Chemical Properties of Zingiber zerumbet Smith (called as Narkachur) published in the Research Gate.net Publication
  3. Zedoary oil (Ezhu You) inhibits proliferation of AGS cells by Hailian Shi, Bao Tan, Guang Ji, Lan Lu, Aili Cao, Songshan Shi and Jianqun Xie published in the Chinese Medicine Journal
  4. Curcuma zedoaria by Ayushveda

Chamomile Oil Roman

roman-chamomile-bnner‘Oil for inner peace’ is the absolute way of honoring Roman Chamomile oil for its gratifying and engaging apple aroma that instantly instills a feeling of love and encouragement. Obtained from the flowers of the Anthemis nobilis plant by steam distillation method, the word Chamomile is extracted from the Greek words Chamai and Melon, which means ‘ground apple’.

Used in Ayurvedic healing in the treatment of bloating, flatulence, dysmennorhea, insomnia, headache, nervous disorders in children, jaundice, PMS, amenorrhea, sunburn, colic, indigestion, anger, depression and negative feelings.

The book Ayurveda and aromatherapy quotes Roman Chamomile as Gold Chamomile and says, “This is the Chamomile that is preferred for children’s illnesses because of its soothing and calming effect. It can be of special assistance during menopause and PMS, and inhalation works well for tension, stress and irritability.”

Purchase Chamomile Roman Essential Oil – 4oz – CLICK HERE 

Historical uses and importance of Roman Chamomile:

It is a member of the daisy family, Asteraceae and its medicinal uses dates back to the ancient Roman and Egyptian civilization, where Roman Chamomile was used in the treatment of nervous afflictions, anxiety, sleeping difficulties and respiratory problems.

The traditional Egyptians dedicated these aromatic flowers to their native Gods for its healing properties. The Sun God was called as Ra and it was trusted to bring back health and heartiness. Chamomile was offered to Sun to get rid of fevers (especially severe fevers known as Ague during that time) and to moon for its cooling potential.

Universally known as one among the Saxon’s nine sacred herbs, Roman Chamomile is also called by various other names like True Chamomile, Golden Chamomile, English Chamomile and the Noble Chamomile for its pacifying aroma and excellent remedial values.

Roman Chamomile is called as Manzanilla (means ‘Little Apple’) in Spain and it was Pliny the Elder, Roman natural philosopher who first mentioned the similarity of the fragrance of the Chamomile flowers to that of the apple blossoms.

It was prevalently used as a strewing herb in the middle ages for perfuming the surroundings in special celebrations and events. During this time, it was also used in flavoring beer, ale and other beverages for its unique bitter taste.

Chamomile tea is a popular natural drink in the United States for reducing fatigue and inducing calmness to the system. It is a favorite ingredient in cosmetics, shampoos, perfumes, soaps, skin preparations and other toiletries.

It is cultivated throughout England, Spain, Argentina, France, Germany, Hungary, Morocco, Belgium, Italy and the United States, among which the England variety is considered as the best for essential oil production.

Numerous illnesses including insomnia, intestinal spasms, eczema, colic in infants, anxiety, depression, lack of self-confidence, inflammation, headache and skin infections are being treated with Roman Chamomile and its essential oil throughout the world for more than thousands of years.

Therapeutic properties and chemical constituents of Roman Chamomile essential oil:

This oil has anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, anti-depressant, nervine, analgesic, emetic, antipyretic, emmenagogue, carminative, relaxing, antispasmodic, antiseptic, anti-infectious, antibiotic, febrifuge, sedative, stomachic, tonic, vermifuge, antiphlogistic, cicatrisant, hepatic, vulnerary, cholagogue and sudorific.

These healing actions are contributed by its chemical constituents including camphene, b-caryophyllene, myrcene, a-pinene, farnesol, sabinene, b-pinene, bisabolol, y-terpinene, azulene, propyl angelate, butyl angelate, pinocarveol, and 1, 8-cineole.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Roman Chamomile essential oil:

Ayurveda is called as the mother of all healing sciences, mainly because of its traditional wisdom spread to the world and its acumen to reside behind as the greatest resource for other healing systems with its vast ancient medicinal recordings especially in Atharvaveda, one among the 4 prominent Vedas (sacred books) of the Hindu mythology.

The three major Ayurvedic texts like Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya Samhita documented the comprehensive medicinal practices and the fundamentals of Ayurveda.

Sushruta and Charaka are the most renowned Ayurvedic physicians of the ancient period and have expressed their Ayurvedic expertise in treating all kinds of illnesses from acne to plastic surgery and menstrual pain to caesarean delivery.

The most inspiring thing about Ayurvedic healing is its preaching and practices for leading a disciplined life. Ayurvedic philosophy revolves various aspects of healing and the most important ones are the holistic healing method, recommending natural remedies for prevention of illnesses and longevity.

They are the holistic approach that considers health as a three-dimensional array with the wellness of the mind, body and spirit. Charaka Samhita, clearly states this as “The three – body, psyche, and soul – act as a tripod. The world stands upon them, and within them, the world abides.”

It aims at preventing illnesses, leading to aging in the pink and longevity. Ayurveda treats illnesses after analyzing its root cause instead of diagnosing it just with the symptoms. It prescribes natural remedies including essential oils, herbs, yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic routine, prayer and other Ayurvedic methodologies like Abhyanga or Ayurvedic massaging and Panchakarma or the technique for detoxification.

Ayurvedic treatment begins with the primary analysis of the biological energies that are a representation of the five vital elements of nature. These energies are called as doshas, namely vata (air + space), pitta (fire + water), and kapha (earth + water). These three doshas are present in every person in specific proportion to create the individual constitution. Absolute balance between these doshas symbolizes health and disparity leads to illnesses.

Ayurvedic physicians prescribe natural remedies to normalize the imbalance of doshas in accordance to the Prakriti or the fundamental constitution of a person. With its neutral and cooling energy, Roman Chamomile oil is said to reduce the surplus of kapha and pitta doshas and increase vata dosha.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Roman Chamomile essential oil are:roman-chamomile-broucher-in1. Pacifies and calms irritable babies:

Babies have no reason for crying, especially during the nighttime when the entire family is trying to sleep tight. Many think that pacifying a crying baby is a ‘Mother’s Thing’ and if you are worried about soothing your stubborn baby the next time, then think of keeping Roman Chamomile essential oil in your emergency kit. This oil also aids in calming irritable babies and appease your baby’s spiteful temper crabbiness.

Roman Chamomile oil is considered to be absolutely safe on children, including newborns. Add 2 drops of this oil on bed linens or on the baby’s pillow. You can also add 2 drops of Roman Chamomile oil to a cotton ball and keep it near your shoulders, inside your shirt. This helps greatly when you try to tranquil your crying baby by granting comfort to their nerves and senses and promote peaceful sleep in sometime.

One drop of Roman Chamomile oil mixed with 10 drops of virgin olive oil can be gently massaged on your baby’s tummy to get rid of pain, colic, stomach upset and diarrhea. This can also be rubbed on a baby’s gums for relieving teething pain, inflammation and swelling associated with teething.

2. Combats insomnia and promotes peaceful sleep:

Sleepless nights are the biggest nightmare that lead to a dull day and drowsiness at work. Insomnia or sleeping disorders mainly occur due to anxiety, fatigue, tension, pain, worries, nervous disorders, post-pregnancy problems or post-surgery effects.

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, states that “Chamomile extract therapy was found to be efficacious for mild-moderate GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)“. Patients with mild to moderate level of GAD were a part of the study and they received chamomile or placebo. This study concluded stating that the patients who received the Chamomile treatment were traced to have a noteworthy change in the severity of their Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

The calming, soothing, sedative and relaxing effects of this oil assist in sedating the system and stimulating good sleep. Adding 3 drops of Roman Chamomile oil to the diffuser or vaporizer in your bedroom or 2 drops added to a tissue placed near your pillows can help in having a restful state in which you can sleep faster and better as well.

Adding 5 to 6 drops of this oil in warm bathing water before going to bed can also be helpful in tranquilizing the nervous system with its nervine properties and lighten up the system physically and emotionally.

3. Bundle of benefits for the skin:

Roman Chamomile essential oil is an excellent calmative for the skin also. Baumann says “It has amazing anti-inflammatory properties that make it ideal for patients with rosacea.” This oil also works wonders in reducing pimples, blackheads, itches and heat rashes especially during summer. This oil also assists in lessening skin irritation and redness caused due to climatic conditions and allergies.

A report by the University Of Maryland Medical Center on Roman Chamomile states that “Test tube studies have shown that chamomile can kill bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Used on the skin, it may also reduce inflammation from cuts or hemorrhoids.”

It is also said that this oil can help in easing the discomforts of eczema, psoriasis, blisters, diaper rashes, skin ulcers, bruises, sunburns and other skin conditions.

Roman Chamomile oil is a popular ingredient in an extensive range of cosmetics and skin care products for many centuries. This is mainly due to the antiseptic, antibacterial, vulnerary, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and cicatrisant properties of this oil.

Mix 3 drops of Roman Chamomile oil with 1.5 ml of Almond oil and gently massage on the affected parts of your skin, followed by a gentle face wash with soap-free cleansing cream.

Then wash it again with a cup of cold water with 1 drop of Roman Chamomile oil diluted in it. This treatment helps in healing wounds, burns, cuts, blisters, wrinkles, blackheads, acne marks, eczema, cracked nipples and other skin problems.

4. Alleviates depression and proffers inner peace:

Roman Chamomile is trusted to be a calming agent especially for alleviating stress and assisting in peaceful sleep. This oil has an impact on the heart chakra and the crown chakra; where the heart chakra is responsible for love for the self, conscious evolution, forgiveness, compassion and love for others as well. The crown chakra is the center of prayer and faith and for building an intimate bond with the Divine power.

The invigorating aroma of Roman Chamomile oil aids in opening the crown chakra and assists in releasing fear and anxiety related to the world. It also helps one realize the heavenly truth of ‘living in the present moment’ and alleviates worries, stress and depression related to loneliness, separation and detachment.

About 2 to 3 drops of Roman Chamomile oil when added to vaporizer, burner or diffuser     assists in bringing self-acceptance, augmenting self-esteem and peace. Inhaling the soothing aroma of this oil along with massaging your body with 5 drops of Roman Chamomile oil blended with 5 drops of Lavender oil and 5 drops of Frankincense oil with 10 ml of virgin olive oil can aid in overcoming fear, agony, agitation, mental confusions, hopelessness, discouragement and frustration.

5. Supports the digestive system:

The essential oil of Roman Chamomile has carminative, stomachic, vermifuge, digestive and cholagogue properties that help in supporting the digestive system and in stimulating the metabolic functions.

Dr. Vikram Chauhan, MD in Ayurveda regards Roman Chamomile as an effective herb for digestive disorders. He says “Roman chamomile has long been used to treat digestive problems, such as sluggish digestion, bloating, belching and flatulence. The bitter sesquiterpene lactones stimulate the digestive juices, and the flavonoids and coumarins have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory powers.”

Massaging your abdomen with 3 drops of Roman Chamomile oil with 3 drops of Peppermint oil helps in toning up the functions of the stomach, alleviates excess gas from the stomach and intestines by stimulating the secretion of hydrochloric acid, bile and other digestive juices and enzymes that regularize the digestion process.

6. Relieves pain and inflammation:

Roman Chamomile oil has analgesic or pain-relieving qualities that help in relieving pain in the joints, muscular aches, headache, toothache and migraine pain. 2 drops of this oil mixed with 2 drops of Myrrh gel oil and 2 ml of coconut oil massaged on the painful or affected parts can help in promoting blood circulation, relieving tension in the painful nerves and muscles, detoxifying the blood and helps in alleviating toxins and other impurities in the blood. The anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic and antiphlogistic effects of this oil aids in reducing inflammation, redness, edema and swelling in case of arthritis and rheumatism.

Can also be used for:

This oil is also effective in treating dysentery, allergies, menopausal problems, menstrual discomforts, sciatica, restlessness, insect bites, cystitis and sprains.

Disclaimer:

This information is only for the purpose of education and is not meant to cure, diagnose or prevent any illnesses or substitute any professional medical advice or prescribed medication. Ayurveda is a common sense science that treats the individual instead of the illnesses and this article is meant to confer the ancient traditional wisdom of this 5,000 years old healing system, and we are not medical professionals.

Do not use essential oils internally and always make sure that you use it topically in a diluted form, as pure and organic essential oils are highly concentrated substances and may cause allergies if used directly on the skin. It is advisable to do a small patch test on your skin, if you are using any essential oil for the first time. Speak with your healthcare expert/Ayurvedic practitioner before using the suitable essential oils for your health condition and unique individual constitution.

Thought for the day:

Joy in looking and comprehending is nature’s most beautiful gift. 

-Albert Einstein

Suggested Reading:

  1. How to Use Roman Chamomile Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) by Miriam Kinai
  2. Camomile (The Herb Library Series) by Kate Ferry-Swainson, Deni Brown
  3. The Ultimate PCOS Handbook: Lose Weight, Boost Fertility, Clear Skin and Restore Self-Esteem by Colette Harris, Theresa Cheung
  4. Natural BabyCare: Pure and Soothing Recipes and Techniques for Mothers and Babies (Natural Health and Beauty Series) by Colleen K. Dodt
  5. Chamomile: Industrial Profiles (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) from CRC Press

Reference Links:

  1. Roman Chamomile by the University of Maryland Medical Center
  2. Chamaemelum nobile by Wikipedia
  3. Health Benefits of Camomile Essential Oil by Organic Facts
  4. Roman Chamomile – Effective Herb For Digestion Problems by Dr. Vikram Chauhan
  5. The Calming Power of Chamomile by Medical News Today


Your resource for quality Essential Oils. Every batch is
GC tested to ensure purity and authenticity.

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus-oil-bannerAustralian Fever tree is what Eucalyptus is lovingly called as, for its therapeutic values of treating fever and respiratory infections.

As one among the most universally used essential oils, Eucalyptus grants excellent relaxing effect on the mind and relieves excruciating pain in the body as well. With more than 700 varieties of Eucalyptus, the most preferred essential oil of Eucalyptus is extracted from the aromatic leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus tree by steam distillation.

Eucalyptus is known with different names in Sanskrit like Tailapatra, Sugandhapatra and Tailaparna. This tree belongs to the Ayurvedic family lavang kul. It is popularly known in India as ‘Nilgiri taila’ as the most aromatic and healing variety grows in Nilgiris hills in south India.

Ayurvedic preparations make use of Eucalyptus oil for the treatment of tuberculosis, bronchitis, cold, cough, asthma, sinusitis, fever, throat infections and certain other respiratory ailments along with mental fatigue, sluggishness, rheumatism, kidney infections, malaria, neuritis, dandruff, acne, insect bites, herpes simplex and muscular problems.

Purchase Eucalyptus Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Eucalyptus Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Eucalyptus oil:

Indigenous to Australia, Eucalyptus oil is the instant home remedy for everything ranging from headache to muscular pain and this tree is widely spread across India, New Zealand and Australia.

Initially, this oil was used in the native topical ointments in primordial Aboriginal medicines for treating severe wounds, sinus congestion, fungal infections and cough. Now this oil is widely used in all facets including industrial, medicinal and perfumery.

Historical references state that it was Captain James Cook with Daniel Solander and Joseph Banks who found various species of Eucalyptus in Endeavour River, Northern Queensland, and Botany Bay in 1770. Until this time none of the collected Eucalyptus species E. gummifera and E. platyphylla were named and it was named only in 1777 when the Eucalyptus variety found in Bruny Island, Tasmania was taken to the British Museum in London.

The French Botanist L’Heritier named it as Eucalyptus obliqua, where all the species of the Eucalyptus family share a common feature of having oblique leaves, which indicates the leaves that have leaf blades of unequal length and do not meet up the petiole in the same situate.

Eucalyptus is a famous food for the koala bears and an extensive source of food for wildlife in many countries across the globe. Australians used Eucalyptus leaves in preparing tea or infusions for treating fever, sinus congestion, cold and rheumatic pain. This oil was used in the English hospitals for cleaning urinary catheters in the 19th century.

The export of Eucalyptus oil ruled the global market in 1870 and various Surgeons during 1880s used Eucalyptus oil at the time of surgery as an antiseptic. The curative benefits of Eucalyptus oil then quickly spread to other alternative and complementary medicinal practices like Greco-European and the Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Chemical constituents or Gas Chromatography Report (GC) for Eucalyptus oil:

According to the Gas chromatography report, Eucalyptus oil constitutes of 11 chemical components that contribute to its distinctive fragrance, remedial properties and quality. Eucalyptus oil is enriched with about 79% of 1,8-Cineole constituent.

The major chemical components are listed and linked below for your reference:

The major constituent that contributes to the healing property of Eucalyptus essential oil is eucalyptol (promising antiseptic), which is another name for cineole. It also contains flavonoids (antioxidants that are plant-based), tannins (aids in reducing inflammation) and other volatile oils.

The table below on the Gas Chromatography report talks about the principal chemical constituents and its role in granting the therapeutic and other attributes to Eucalyptus oil.

Eucalyptus-oilRemedial properties of Eucalyptus oil:

These components are responsible for the remedial properties of Eucalyptus oil including antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, decongestant, mucolytic, mental stimulant, regenerative, diuretic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, germicidal, deodorant, alterative, anti-diabetic, disinfectant and insect repellent.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Eucalyptus essential oil:

Every human being is born with all physical and mental faculties in palpable order and all that he/she needs to do is to understand the ways of using them perfectly to lead a serene life. This understanding of life is known as ‘Ayurveda’ and the very word means ‘knowledge of life’ (Ayur-life and Veda-knowledge).

This traditional wisdom has its name etched in the history before 5,000 years and is said to be in existence before 1500 B.C. The principles of Ayurveda have been documented in the Atharvaveda, one among the 4 major Vedas (sacred books) of the Hindu Mythology. Nearly 114 poems in this Vedic literature depict the causes, effects and the remedies of various diseases of mankind.

Ayurvedic system strongly believes that everything on earth is a part of nature and is made up of the five vital elements of nature including fire, water, earth, space and air. Earth is said to represent bones and muscles, fire stands for the biological reaction and metabolism of the body, air aids in breathing, water is the blood and space is the soul or spirit that lives within.

The philosophy of Ayurveda states that every individual is made up of a unique individual constitution comprising of three vital biological energies known as doshas. These vital energies are nothing but a representation of the five vital elements of nature.

According to Ayurveda, sickness is a symbol that the human body is in disharmony with nature and there is imbalance of any one or all of the three doshas.

Ayurveda says that disease is an opportunity to know the imbalances of the system. It believes in identifying the root cause of an illness instead of treating the symptoms alone.

Ayurvedic remedies vary from individual to individual even for the same medical condition as it trusts that every individual is a unique creation and the treatment for their illnesses should also be unique.

The major Ayurvedic remedies are essential oils (the life-force of plants), herbs, Abhyanga (the art of Ayurvedic massaging), yoga, meditation, prayers and following an Ayurvedic routine. These remedies are prescribed in such a way that they treat the imbalances of doshas and help to live in harmony with Mother Nature.

Eucalyptus oil is known for increasing pitta dosha and pacifying kapha and vata dosha with its unique medicinal, warm and camphoraceous to lemony aroma.

The Ayurvedic health benefits of Eucalyptus oil are:

Eucalyptus-oil-broucher-new11. Excellent lung cleanser that alleviates respiratory problems:

The oil of Eucalyptus has been held-high for more than thousands of years for its natural potent of treating fever, respiratory problems and lung ailments. Light Miller claims Eucalyptus as “one of the three best oils for any respiratory tract problem because the component eucalyptol is mucolytic (it relaxes the flow of mucous) and it excretes the eucalyptol out through the lung surface.”

Adding 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil in steam inhalation instills a relaxing effect on the mucous membranes, cleans the nasal passages, expands the blood vessels and permits more oxygen intake by the lungs, thus assisting trouble-free breathing and cleansing of lungs.

This oil have been used since the traditional times in the treatment of sinusitis, bronchitis, nasal and chest congestion, cold, sore throat, asthma, tuberculosis, runny nose and throat infections.

A study on ‘Immune-modifying and antimicrobial effects of Eucalyptus oil and simple inhalation devices’ by Sadlon AE, Lamson DW published in 2010 Alternative Medicine says that, “Surprisingly, there are also immune-stimulatory, antioxidant, and spasmolytic effects. Of the white blood cells, monocytes and macrophages are most affected, especially with increased phagocytic activity. Application by either vapor inhalation or oral route provides benefit for both purulent and non-purulent respiratory problems.”

Eucalyptus oil has excellent decongestant, expectorant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties that make its use vital in many cold rubs, ointments and other oral preparations for respiratory problems.

The study on Eucalyptus oil extracted from the aromatic Eucalyptus tree of the Nilgiri hills, India by the Medical Department, Government of Madras, India has proved that Eucalyptus oil works as an effective expectorant and relaxes phlegm and mucous deposits in the nasal and respiratory passages.

The presence of phenolic compounds, the plant based antioxidants in Eucalyptus oil helps in fighting against respiratory infections by strengthening the immune system during flu, cough, cold and other illnesses. 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil added to cold compress or applied to foot soles helps in reducing fever. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in ointments or rubs and massage it gently on the chest, throat and back for relieving nasal and chest congestion.

2. Relieves pain effectively:

Whenever headache hits us badly, the first thing that comes to most of our minds is Eucalyptus oil. Yes! This powerful pain-relieving oil has analgesic and natural pain relieving qualities.

A recent double blind study have illustrated that Eucalyptus oil and Peppermint oil applied together on temples and forehead proved better in relieving headache better than pharmaceutical aspirin and acetaminophen.

A 1991 study on the ‘Effects of a topically applied counter-irritant (Eucalyptamint) on cutaneous blood flow and on skin and muscle temperatures. A placebo-controlled study.’ By the University of California Irvine Medical Center suggested that “Eucalyptamint, produced significant physiologic responses that may be beneficial for pain relief and/or useful to athletes as a passive form of warm-up.”

Eucalyptus essential oil alleviates pain by spreading its warming effect on the skin, causing numbness on the painful parts and relieves pain quickly. Its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic properties assists in relieving muscular pain, rheumatic pain, joint aches, arthritic pain, lumbago, stiff muscles, fibrositis, nerve pain and migraine pain.

A 2013 study on ‘Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial’ by the Department of Basic Nursing Science, School of Nursing, Korea University have stated that, “Eucalyptus oil inhalation was effective in reducing patient’s subjective pain and blood pressure after surgery. These findings suggest that the inhalation of eucalyptus oil might be a valuable nursing intervention for pain relief after TKR (Total Knee Replacement).”

Massaging the affected parts with 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil mixed with 1 drop of Peppermint oil and 2 ml of coconut oil can help in lessening pain and reducing swelling by eliminating the excess water deposits, salt , uric acid or other toxic substances causing inflammation in case or arthritis or rheumatism. You can also add 3 drops of Eucalyptus oil in warm bathing water and go for a re-energizing bath to calm your aching muscles and nerves.

3. Keeps away oral problems:

The essential oil of Eucalyptus oil is rich in 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which is an effective antiseptic that eradicates bacteria and other harmful microbes that can cause bad breath and other oral problems.

It is also said that the antibacterial effect of this oil assists in fighting against periodontopathic bacteria and cariogenic bacteria, which is responsible for causing decay of tooth.

A 2008 study on ‘Effect of eucalyptus extract chewing gum on periodontal health: a double-masked, randomized trial.’ By the Department of Preventive Dentistry, Osaka, Japan witnessed the effectiveness of Eucalyptus oil by stating that “Eucalyptus extract chewing gum had a significant effect on Plaque accumulation (PLA), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal probing depth (PD). The use of eucalyptus extract chewing gum may promote periodontal health.”

The best way to used Eucalyptus oil for combating germs and bacteria causing oral problems is to add 1 drop of this oil in a cup of water and use it as a gargle twice a day. This is the major cause for the use of Eucalyptus formula in various mouthwashes and other oral cleansers to fight cavity, gingivitis, halitosis and plaque.

4. Mitigates mental exhaustion:

Eucalyptus essential oil instills a cooling effect on the mind and helps repair and rejuvenate negative feelings and subtle emotions. Numerous studies have proved that this oil has been effective in alleviating stress, mental fatigue, depression due to illness, lack of concentration, mental aversion and other strong emotions.

1 drop of Eucalyptus oil mixed with 1 drop of Lemon oil and added to your vaporizer or diffuser can grant mental clarity quotes the book ‘Ayurveda and Aromatherapy’ by Bryan Miller and Light Miller. You can also add 2 drops of this oil in your bathing water in the morning or before going to bed to calm your nerves, soothe your senses and leave you invigorated and balanced.

You can add 10 drops of Eucalyptus oil to your 2.5 ounce spray bottle and spray it in your work station to assist in clarity of thoughts, improved concentration, logical thinking, increased intellectual power and focused approached even towards the most complex task of the day.

5. Heals wounds and infections quickly:

The effective germicidal and antiseptic properties of Eucalyptus oil promotes quicker healing of burns, infectious wounds, abrasions, skin ulcers, cuts and dry itchy patches. Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial and germicidal effects that curb the growth of perilous bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and E.coli and a 2004 research on ‘A study of the antimicrobial activity of oil of Eucalyptus’ proves this effectiveness.

Apply 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil mixed with 1 ml of jojoba oil and apply on the wounds, acne, candida, blisters, boils (it is safe on chicken pox boils also), shingles, herpes simplex and other skin infections for visible results.

It is also said that Eucalyptus oil was effectively used for treating childhood infectious diseases like typhoid, cholera, mumps, measles and scarlet fever. You can add 2 drops of this oil warm bathing water or mix it with 1 ml of coconut and massage it gently on foot soles to reduce fever and other infectious health conditions.

6. Promising insect repellent:

Eucalyptus essential oil is a potent insecticide and pesticide. It is a renowned formula in many insect repellents in the market and the oil of Eucalyptus mixed with lemon oil is said to keep away ticks.

The Australian Aborigines used Eucalyptus oil as an effective insect repellent to protect them from mosquitoes, ticks and fleas. Using this oil can assist in preventing critical diseases like malaria, Lyme disease, West Nile virus and Rocky mountain spotted fever.

Add 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil to 2 ml of coconut oil and gently massage it on your scalp to get rid of lice and dandruff (anti-fungal). Mix 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil with 1 ml of olive oil and apply it on insect bites to get rid of rashes, reduce itching and redness of the skin. You can also apply this mix before going to bed to protect yourself from mosquitoes. 2 to 3 drops of this oil added to your air freshener or diffuser can give you a bug-free sleep at night.

Other health benefits:

Eucalyptus oil is also effective in treating other disorders like bladder infections, skin blemishes, sluggishness, fatigue, emotional pressure, dysentery, loss of appetite, laryngitis, intestinal worms, wounds and loss of appetite.

Disclaimer:

This article is restricted to educational use only and is not for substituting any prescribed medication or professional medical advice. Speak with your Ayurvedic healthcare expert before choosing the appropriate essential oils for your specific health condition and unique individual constitution.

Always use essential oils for topical use in a diluted manner as certified and organic essential oils are highly concentrated extracts and may cause allergic conditions when used on the skin directly. Eucalyptus oil is safe as it comes under GRAS (generally regarded as safe) oils but never use it internally.

The MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) of Eucalyptus oil is readily available for your enhanced safety and better usage.

Gas Chromatography Report (GC analysis) of Eucalyptus oil.

Thought for the day:

Knowing trees, I understand the meaning of patience. Knowing grass, I can appreciate persistence.     

-Hal Borland

Suggested Reading:

  1. The Power of Eucalyptus for Health & Healing by Jack Malloy
  2. How to Use Eucalyptus Essential Oil (Aromatherapy) by Miriam Kinai
  3. Eucalyptus Leaf Oils Use Chemistry Distillation and Marketing by Boland
  4. HEALING POWERS OF EUCALYPTUS Pure Essential Oil – Respiratory Healer (The Aromatherapy Professional: Healing with Essential Oils) by KG Stiles
  5. Eucalyptus: The Genus Eucalyptus (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Industrial Profiles) From CRC Press

Reference Links:

  1. Eucalyptus by Wikipedia
  2. Eucalyptus By The University of Maryland Medical Center
  3. The Lung Cleansing Benefits of Eucalyptus by Global Healing Center
  4. Effect of eucalyptus extract chewing gum on periodontal health: a double-masked, randomized trial.’ By the Department of Preventive Dentistry, Osaka, Japan published in Pubmed
  5. Effect of Eucalyptus Oil Inhalation on Pain and Inflammatory Responses after Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Clinical Trial’ by the Department of Basic Nursing Science, School of Nursing, Korea University published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine Volume 2013


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