As we age, a number of things happen to us. Inflammation, weight gain and toxic buildup cause a number of issues, including chronic pain, illness, sagging skin and brittle bones.
No one relishes the thought of getting older; we all look for ways to evade or slow down the process while retaining some of our youthful strength and vigor. Some turn to prescription medications, others to supplements, still more to natural sources of anti-aging, but we all want the same thing. We want to feel better, look younger and retain our quality of life.
What about Eucalyptus?
Native to the continent of Australia, the eucalyptus tree has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. The benefits of eucalyptus oil are known far and wide, and people use it for a number of reasons: to improve respiratory health, to lower inflammation and to reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the skin.
Obtaining eucalyptus oil involves crushing the leaves of the eucalyptus tree into a fine powder then distilling to collect the essential oil. After processing and extracting the oil, it must be diluted before it can be used for medicinal purposes. Let’s take a look at some of the anti-aging benefits of eucalyptus and what you stand to gain from incorporating it into your wellness plan.
Benefits of Eucalyptus
While you shouldn’t throw out your daily medications and supplements just yet, you might be surprised at what this potent oil can do for all aspects of your health.
As recently as the 19th century, eucalyptus oil was used as an antimicrobial agent to clean hospital catheters in England. Studies done in Serbia have linked the action of eucalyptus oil to that of antibiotics in the way that it serves to clean out viruses and bacteria in the body. This is good news for those of us that are prone to illnesses and infections as the seasons change.
One of the most appreciated benefits of eucalyptus is its ability to break up and clear mucous from nasal passages and areas of the lungs. Herbal practitioners recommend the use of crushed leaves in a gargle to relieve issues like bronchitis, sinusitis and sore throat. Many over-the-counter products for respiratory relief and decongestants include eucalyptus oil; Vicks VapoRub is one such product that uses the power of eucalyptus to provide fast relief from congestion and cough.
As we age, our teeth and gums are particularly susceptible to the effects of infection and degeneration. Lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition contribute to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Studies show that eucalyptus oil is a powerful agent in combating bacteria that can lead to gum disease and decay; regular use could improve dental health and preserve the integrity of mouth, teeth and gums.
The strong antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus aid in clearing fungal infections and clearing wounds that can quickly break down the skin and lead to deeper levels of infection. When used topically, it must be combined with a carrier lotion or oil to reduce the risk of blistering, as it can be quite strong.
Eucalyptamint is an over-the-counter preparation that uses the power of eucalyptus essential oil to naturally relieve pain. It is used to relieve conditions such as backache, muscle pain, joint inflammation and chronic pain related to diseases like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Regular topical application leads to more comfort and a greater range of motion over time.
As we age, our ability to fight off infection and illness is reduced; eucalyptus is known to provide a heightened phagocytic response in the immune system, boosting its ability to consume and destroy foreign pathogens in the body. We remain healthier, longer, and if we do succumb to illness, it is for a shorter period of time and tends to be less severe. Other conditions that are greatly improved with the addition of eucalyptus are:
- Arthritis
- Blocked sinuses
- Burns
- Ulcers
- Bladder diseases
- Diabetes (due to its ability to lower blood sugar)
- Cold sores
- Flu
- Fevers
Incorporating eucalyptus into your wellness plan means taking charge of your health; the benefits of eucalyptus will no doubt contribute to a better quality of life and vibrant energy, no matter how old you may be. Here’s to your best health!
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