Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil extracted from the fresh eucalyptus leaves and branch tops. The oil has long been used to kill germs, reduce inflammation, heal fungal infections, and address a host of other health issues in traditional medicine systems.
Today, its usage is also growing in skincare products as more and more consumers are shifting toward plant-based green beauty. The cleansing, clarifying, purifying, and immune-boosting properties of eucalyptus oil makes it one of the most popular natural ingredients in balms, massage blends, face creams, etc.
Follow along as we explore some of the remarkable benefits of eucalyptus for your skin and hair.
The Science Behind Eucalyptus
The eucalyptus tree is native to Australia. It belongs to the genus Eucalyptus, which encompasses over 650 distinct species. Eucalyptus oil is highly sought after for its therapeutic properties and healing powers. It is rich in compounds such as eucalyptol, limonene, camphene, camphor, and alpha-pinene, which work great against a wide range of fungi, viruses, and bacteria.
Many eucalyptus oil varieties also have antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which neutralize free radicals that can cause damage to the body.
Eucalyptus has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly by Indigenous Australians, who use its healing properties to treat various ailments. However, its popularity in skin care is mostly attributed to its ability to combat bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Eucalyptus oil also has a pleasant, mint-like smell that adds to its appeal in aromatherapy and personal care products. These properties make it a compelling ingredient in green beauty products, where consumers prioritize natural and carbon neutral options for their skincare routine.
Eucalyptus Globulus Benefits for Your Skin and Hair
Eucalyptus offers several remarkable benefits for both skin and hair care. Here are some of them:
Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil for Skin
Effective Moisturizer
Your skin's outer layer contains ceramides that hold the skin cells together. But environmental stressors, aging, and certain skincare practices can deplete these ceramides, leading to compromised skin barrier function.
Research suggests that applying topical eucalyptus oil extract on skin can help replenish ceramides and enhance the skin barrier. Eucalyptus oil improves your skin's water-holding and barrier function. It serves as a natural moisturizer that keeps your skin firm and supple. It also prevents excessive production of oils that might otherwise clog the pores and cause acne.
Helps Prevent and Address Acne
The fact that eucalyptus oil hydrates the skin and improves its barrier function means the skin won't produce excess oils that clog pores and lead to acne. On top of that, eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a valuable addition to skincare routines targeting acne. In this case, it helps reduce inflammation associated with acne and prevent bacterial growth, promoting clearer and healthier skin.
Soothes Dry Skin
Eucalyptus oil offers soothing relief to dry skin. Its moisturizing properties, combined with anti-inflammatory effects, make it effective in alleviating dry skin conditions and restoring the skin's natural balance.
Relieves Sunburns
Exposure to the sun's harmful rays can leave the skin irritated and inflamed. Eucalyptus oil, with its anti-inflammatory and cooling effects, provides much-needed relief to sun-damaged skin. When diluted and applied to the affected areas, it can provide relief from the discomfort associated with sun-damaged skin.
Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil for Hair
Treats Stubborn Dandruff
Eucalyptus has amazing anti-septic, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties, which work together to combat the underlying causes of dandruff. According to a report published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Tropical Diseases, these properties can serve as anti-dandruff treatment. The essential oil soothes inflammation, regulates sebum levels, and prevents flaky skin and flare-ups. Its calming effect can also reduce the excessive urge to scratch and provide relief from discomfort.
Help Address Head Lice Issue
Eucalyptus oil is a possible treatment for head lice. According to an Australian study, the efficacy, safety, and ease of use of the oil make it an effective alternative treatment for head lice. But as with any other medical recommendation, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first before using eucalyptus for head lice.
Provides a Healthy Sheen
There is some anecdotal evidence that eucalyptus oil can promote shiny hair. That's mostly due to its moisturizing effects that help hydrate and nourish the hair shaft.
Potentially Boosts Hair Growth
Beyond its cosmetic benefits, advocates believe that eucalyptus oil actively stimulates hair growth. While the connection between oil and hair growth is yet to be established, the anti-inflammatory properties can reduce scalp irritation and inflammation and create a perfect environment for hair growth. Besides, the act of massaging the oil into the scalp can help enhance blood circulation around the hair follicles and facilitate the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair cells. In turn, this may energize the dormant hair cells and promote hair growth.
How to Use Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is generally safe for use on adult skin. However, you shouldn't apply it directly on your skin. Pure eucalyptus oil is highly concentrated and could irritate. You'll need to dilute it with carrier oils like cocoa butter, jojoba, or coconut oil. You can also mix it with water or petroleum jelly. Again, you'll need to run a patch test on these blends just to be sure before you can apply it to the rest of the body. A patch test is especially critical if you have sensitive skin.
Get Organic Body Care Products at Pure Treesy
At Pure Treesy, we have a great collection of organic eucalyptus products, including:
Mint Eucalyptus Shampoo Bar by BRIXY
Our mint eucalyptus shampoo bar offers a luxuriously soapy experience. It’s made with gentle cleansers, provitamin B, argan oil and coconut oil for balance and hydration. It will leave your hair clean, nourished and moisturized.
Mint Eucalyptus Conditioner Bar by BRIXY
Made with cacao seed butter, coconut oil, and provitamin B, this conditioner is meant to leave your hair soft, glossy and smooth. It is perfect for all hair types, and free from synthetic colorants and scents, palm oil, parabens and sulfates.
Mint Eucalyptus Starter Set
The starter set comes with one Shampoo, one Conditioner and one moisturizing Body Wash. They are made with organic ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, provitamin B, coconut oil and cacao seed butter for healthy looking skin and hair.
Our carefully curated products are designed to bring balance, softness, and hydration to your hair care routine. They are cruelty-free, vegan and suitable for all skin types. You can also browse through our collection of organic face oil, lip balm, and other body care products.
