It looks as if winter has finally decided to arrive in Indiana. We had one of the warmest Decembers I can remember, and my family was actually outside playing basketball on Christmas Day! That has changed, however, and the cold has arrived whether it was wanted or not, along with about three inches of snow.

It seems that cold weather seasons also bring germs and illnesses that aren’t so widespread throughout the rest of the year. For wellness purposes, I’ve found that essential oils help me throughout the winter. One of my favorite oils to use is *Eucalyptus globulus for its affinity with the respiratory system.

Main Therapeutic Benefits of Eucalyptus Globulus

Historically, the following properties are attributed to eucalyptus:

• Analgesic
• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antitussive
• Decongestant
• Expectorant
• Stimulant

Eucalyptus for Body Systems

While these is not a comprehensive list, here are three main body systems that eucalyptus supports.

• Respiratory System. Eucalyptus globulus has been used for bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, nasal congestion, throat infections, colds, and flus. It is an ingredient in the perennial favorite, Vicks Vapor Rub. I love to make my own version of this salve, and I start using it at the first sign of colds or congestion.
• Circulatory System. Eucalyptus helps to increase circulation and can be beneficial when undertaking a detox program for health and wellness.
• Musculoskeletal system. The analgesic properties of eucalyptus make it a logical choice to be included in a blend for massage oils/creams and muscle rubs.

Two Simple Ways to Use Eucalyptus

Here are two simple ways you can start using eucalyptus essential oil right now.

1. Oil Chest Rub. In 1/2 ounce of carrier oil such as almond oil, olive oil, or sesame oil, add 15 drops of Eucalyptus globulus. Shake gently to mix. Rub a small amount to the chest area. Store the rest for later use.
2. Inhalation. Diffuse 5 drops of eucalyptus in a water-based diffusor. Use on and off throughout the day as needed. If you don’t have a diffusor, add a few drops of the oil to a bowl of steaming water (out of the reach of children) or put a drop or two on a tissue or washcloth and tuck it under your pillow.

Do you have a favorite way to use this powerful essential oil? Please share in the comments.

*Precautions: the information here is provided for adults, not children. Children should not use eucalyptus; Rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia) is a better choice for children. No one should ingest Eucalyptus, as it is toxic when taken internally. According to the Gale Health and Wellness Resource Center, pregnant or breast-feeding women should not use eucalyptus. People with digestive problems, stomach or intestinal inflammations, biliary duct disorders, or liver disease should not take eucalyptus.

Resources

The East-West School for Aromatic Studies: Aromas 101

Gale Health and Wellness Resource Center

Brilliant leaves, crisp apples, and chilly temperatures herald the coming of fall and winter. Unfortunately, along with the changing of the season also comes exposure to colds and flu. Let’s be proactive and explore some ways we can stay as healthy as possible during the next few months. In my next few posts, I’ll explore how aromatherapy and herbs can support us through the fall and winter.

One of the most basic things we can do to fight nasty bugs is to keep our homes clean. I know, it’s a battle, especially with children in and out of the house, but here’s an essential oil cleaning solution that will help you quickly mop up messes and leave a lovely aroma behind. No chemically smell here.

Aromatherapy Spray Cleaning Solution

Keeping your home clean can help prevent the spread of germs that make us sick. Perhaps you love using essential oils in creams and for inhalation, but haven’t considered using them while cleaning. Well, with the antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties of

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the main therapeutic actions of each oil as it pertains to cleaning (I’m not covering all their properties, e.g. for healing or emotional issues, just cleaning). Historically, these oils have been known for the following properties:

• Eucalyptus: antibacterial, antiviral
• Lavender: antibiotic, antiseptic
• Lemongrass: antibacterial, anti fungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral
• Rose geranium: antibacterial, antifungal
• Tea tree : antibacterial, anti fungal, antimicrobial, antiviral

By no means does this cover all of the EOs that would be useful in a cleaning solution. This one includes some of my favorites. How about you? Have you concocted a cleaning recipe that works wonders for you? Let us know about it in the comment section.

Here’s to a healthy fall and winter!