It's no wonder why Eucalyptus is such a welcoming scent of the cold and flu season! Eucalyptus has been used for centuries to support the respiratory system, boost the immune system, and even help reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. These benefits and effects are thanks to several phytochemical constituents that give eucalyptus expectorant, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center reported that ‘one of these substances called eucalyptol or cineole has the ability to break up and loosen phlegm and mucous.' These properties can also prove beneficial for easing coughs and supporting a body fighting many common upper respiratory problems. I created our popular DecongesTea blend with this in mind, and our soon-to-be-released RespiraTea blend (stay tuned!) that will take advantage of these properties as well. But that's not all there is to eucalyptus!

Eucalyptus helps the body metabolize hormones created by stress and anxiety and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system, which may help prevent arteriosclerosis. In Eastern medical systems, it is often used as a wash for irritated skin and inflamed skin due to its antibacterial effects.

There has also been substantial research into how eucalyptus can lower blood sugar. Evidence shows that eucalyptus has beneficial effects on lowering blood sugar and helping in the prevention of Type 2 diabetes, although medical science has not yet determined the specific chemical constituents responsible for this effect. As with all herbs, you should always do some research first, and of course consult your doctor before starting any new supplements or herbal formulas.

Eucalyptus is available in many forms but one of the easiest ways to use it may be as a simple infusion in hot water; in addition to drinking it, breathing in the steam is a wonderful way to add value to the tisane. We carry the broken leaf on its own, but we have also included it as part of our DecongesTea and RespiraTea herbal WellTeaing blends to soothe sinus, throat and upper respiratory issues. It is great to have on hand to help out during colf and flu time!