home Audience 12 Eucalyptus - medicinal properties and use in medicine. Medicinal properties and contraindications to the use of eucalyptus

Eucalyptus - medicinal properties and use in medicine. Medicinal properties and contraindications to the use of eucalyptus

Medicinal properties Eucalyptus globulus has been used by mankind since ancient times. His antiseptic properties compared to quinine and used even where all antibiotics are powerless. Preparations from the plant are created on an industrial scale, and traditional healers include eucalyptus in most antimicrobial preparations.

General characteristics of the tree

Eucalyptus grows well in natural conditions, but its great value forces humanity to additionally grow the tree. This is not surprising, because the price is not only for the leaves, as medicinal raw materials, but also for the bark and wood of the plant.

Places of growth

The eucalyptus tree is classified as a fast-growing tree. In tropical climates, it can reach 30 m in height in just 15 years. It is actively grown for industrial processing in Africa, America, the southern part of Europe, as well as in the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus. In the wild, eucalyptus grows almost throughout Australia, on the island of Tasmania. These places are considered his homeland.

Eucalyptus globulus prefers moist soil with good drainage. Feels great on soil mixed with sand, clay, and small stones. Although eucalyptus is considered a very heat-loving plant, it can withstand light frosts (down to −8 °C). When the temperature drops even further, the tree dies, freezing from the root.

What does it look like

Eucalyptus globulus is an evergreen plant. In nature, there are trees up to 80 m tall, their diameter reaches two meters. That is, eucalyptus is quite a worthy competitor to the American Sequoia both in height and in the massiveness of the trunk. At the same time, the tree simply surprises with its voluminous crown of a regular spherical shape.

Bark. The trunk and branches of eucalyptus globulus are covered with medium-thick bark unusual color- white-gray with a blue tint. Deep grooves can be traced on the surface, formed as a result of the gradual peeling of the upper layers of the bark. Parts of it often hang from the tree, falling off from time to time.
Leaves. All foliage on a tree is divided into young and old. The first is represented by leaves “sitting” on young shoots, closely enveloping them. The color is bright gray, the surface is leathery. Even young leaves are quite large - from 7 to 16 cm long and up to 10 cm wide. It is in young foliage that it accumulates greatest number essential oil rich in the antiseptic cineole. Large old leaves, thanks to the petiole, turn with their edges towards sun rays. They're shiny dark green, have a crescent-lanceolate shape. Dimensions range from 10 to 30 cm long and 3-4 cm wide.
Flowers. Eucalyptus blooms with light axillary flowers for the first time in October, in the third year of tree growth. Flowering is short-lived.
Fetus. Presented as a tube-shaped box. It reaches 15 cm in length and 30 cm in width. There are several grooves on the surface of the box. Inside there are one or two seeds, which finally ripen only after a year and a half.

The powerful root system of eucalyptus is capable of drawing moisture from a large area. For this quality, the tree is also called a “natural pump” and is planted in swampy areas that require drainage.

Leaf harvesting process

Eucalyptus leaves are used as medicinal raw materials. In order to obtain them, wild and specially grown trees are pruned in the fall. The cut branches are carefully folded so as not to damage the leaves. During the collection of raw materials, annual pruning occurs in order to form a dense crown.

The branches along with the leaves are tied into small brooms and hung in a shaded place outdoors or in a well-ventilated room. When drying, the leaves release vapors containing phytoncides. They are able to disinfect and purify the air in any room.

Dry branches are wrapped in paper and topped with a plastic bag. Store suspended for two years in a dry place with good ventilation. If it is necessary to separate the leaves from the branches, they are placed in a glass or plastic container and hermetically sealed. Store protected from light. If dryers are used to prepare raw materials, it is necessary to maintain a reduced temperature of 35°C to avoid evaporation of the essential oil.

Composition and medicinal properties of eucalyptus

The beneficial properties of eucalyptus, namely its activity against most existing microbes and anti-inflammatory effect, are due to the multicomponent chemical composition of the leaves:

essential oil (contains antiseptics and aromatic substances);
tanning components;
bitterness;
flavonoids (antioxidants and anti-inflammatory);
minerals (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cr, Zn);
coumaric, cinnamic organic acids.

In fact chemical composition Eucalyptus globulus is much more complex. One essential oil consists of 40 types of volatile components. It is this extensive natural combination that gives the antimicrobial effect of eucalyptus, comparable to synthetic antibacterial drugs.

pharmachologic effect

In the official and folk medicine the use of eucalyptus leaves accompanies the therapy of a huge list of diseases, because the plant has a number of healing properties, effective even in complex pathologies.

The enormous benefits of eucalyptus lie not so much in the listed effects, but in their combination and strength. Combination pharmacological properties allows you to significantly speed up the healing process for diseases of a bacterial nature.

Use in folk medicine

Eucalyptus globulus is a tropical tree, so it is quite difficult for residents of the middle zone to prepare its leaves at home. Fortunately, every pharmacy sells already dried leaves. And not biologically active additive, but as a real standardized raw material collected from a pharmacopoeial plant. But for successful treatment it is important to use this medicine correctly.

Infusion

Peculiarities. Used internally to treat wet and dry cough with bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis. The use of eucalyptus in the form of an infusion is advisable for gargling with laryngitis, sore throat, tonsillitis, regular rinsing oral cavity will help with stomatitis and periodontal disease.

Preparation and use

Pour half a liter of boiling water 10 g dried leaves eucalyptus.
Leave for a quarter of an hour, then strain.
Take 40-50 ml orally four times a day.
Before rinsing, warm the infusion slightly and apply three times a day.

Decoction

Peculiarities. Suitable for compresses and rinses. Indications for use include phlegmon, abscess, furunculosis, purulent wounds, trophic ulcers, purulent mastitis.

Preparation and use

Place 20 g of eucalyptus leaves in a saucepan, pour 200 ml of boiling water.
Cover the mixture and keep in a water bath for a quarter of an hour.
Leave for 10 minutes, strain, squeeze out the pulp.
Bring boiled water to a volume of 200 ml.
Treat the affected surface twice a day or apply a compress for two hours, soaking a piece of cotton fabric in the broth.

Tea

Peculiarities. Can be used as a general tonic before the cold season for complex treatment influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. The product is recommended for lack of appetite, poor digestion, and dysbacteriosis.

Preparation and use

Pour a cup of boiling water (250 ml) over 30 g of dried eucalyptus leaves.
Let it brew for a quarter of an hour.
Drink in small sips throughout the day.

Tincture

Peculiarities. Used internally for ARVI, bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, malaria, stomach diseases, inflammation of the gallbladder, intestinal infections. Externally used for rubbing the back for radiculitis, injuries, dislocations, sprains. In folk medicine, douching is popular for healing erosion. cervical canal(cervix) s. There is a ready-made pharmacy option.

Preparation and use

Fill a dark glass bottle with a capacity of 0.5-0.7 l with crushed fresh leaves eucalyptus by a third.
Add granulated sugar to half the entire volume of the bottle.
Place the vessel in a dark place for four days, tying the neck with gauze.
Add half a liter of vodka to the resulting syrup and mix well.
Leave for a week in a dark place.
Strain into a clean container, squeezing out the pulp thoroughly.
When taken orally, add 20-30 drops of tincture to 50 ml of water. Take three times a day.
For external use, including douching, mix together 200 ml of warm water and a teaspoon of the drug. Use a cotton or gauze swab to treat damaged areas twice a day.

Inhalations

Peculiarities. Effectively eliminate bacterial diseases of the upper respiratory tract, tracheitis. Used for runny nose, sinusitis, nasal congestion, headache.

Preparation and use

Inhalation glass boiled water cool to a temperature of 60-70°C.
Add 15 ml of decoction, 20 drops to the prepared water alcohol tincture, or 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil.
Breathe in steam, covering your head with a towel, twice a day.

Oil

Peculiarities. is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic aroma of cineole. Has strong bactericidal properties. Used after dilution with water or indifferent oil. Pure oil is used only for herpes rashes.

Preparation and use

Sold in pharmacies in dark glass jars. It is extracted industrially from fresh leaves.
For rinses, lotions, compresses, inhalations, 15-20 drops of oil are diluted with a glass of water.
Evaporating the oil using an aroma lamp helps disinfect the air in the room.

It is advisable to add eucalyptus essential oil to hair shampoos and facial cleansers. Short term impact natural antiseptics helps get rid of seborrhea, excessive oily scalp, acne, dermatitis.

Eucalyptus is included in ready-made medicines. These are throat sprays “Kameton”, “Inhalipt”, eucalyptus extract - “Chlorophyllipt”, lozenges “Eucalypt-M”. All drugs are distinguished by antimicrobial activity and have been successfully used in official medicine for a long time.

Contraindications and side effects

The healing properties of eucalyptus make the plant an indispensable assistant at home treatment bacterial diseases. However, like any other medicine, Eucalyptus globulus leaves should be used only for their intended purpose. Recipes for preparing an infusion, decoction, or tincture from leaves must be strictly followed to prevent unwanted action self-prepared drug.

Side effects from the use of dried eucalyptus leaves can include allergic reactions: redness of the skin, rash, itching. As a rule, such phenomena disappear immediately after stopping use of the plant. According to reviews, external use of eucalyptus preparations causes allergies very rarely.

Also, before using medicinal raw materials, you need to make sure that there are no contraindications to eucalyptus:

use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is undesirable;
individual sensitivity reactions;
heart failure;
renal failure.

Before using eucalyptus essential oil, you need to do an allergy test: apply the oil to the inner bend of your elbow and evaluate the skin reaction after 20 minutes. Due to the high concentration of volatile substances and the local vasodilating effect, slight redness of the skin is acceptable after applying the oil. The oil should not cause any burning, pain or itching. At the right approach and following the instructions, it is impossible to harm the body with eucalyptus.

The eucalyptus globulus tree is a source of valuable plant materials and essential oils, the properties of which go far beyond antimicrobial effects. The most popular treatment for cough is eucalyptus, but even with incipient heart disorders or work disorders nervous system This plant will help restore the proper functioning of the body.

Eucalyptus has been famous for its medicinal qualities since ancient times and is very popular all over the world. Many potions are prepared from its leaves, which have a very beneficial effect on the body. For example, regular use of eucalyptus decoction strengthens the immune system, relieves colds and gynecological diseases, and helps with gastritis. The composition is also effective for skin problems. In addition, in medicine there are known cases of using a decoction for peritonitis.

Eucalyptus decoction is especially effective for infectious and inflammatory ailments

Composition and valuable properties of eucalyptus

Eucalyptus decoction is an aqueous extract from its leaves obtained by heating. Concentration useful substances in such a solution is much higher than in infusion or tea.

Attention. Medicinal raw materials for decoctions can be collected throughout summer season, but the best are considered to be leaves harvested in the fall. Dry them in the shade. Finished product should have a strong spicy aroma and bitter taste.

Dried leaves are rich in essential oil, which is the main medicinal principle of the plant. It has pronounced antimicrobial activity and successfully fights various infections, increases the body's resistance. After steaming and boiling the raw materials, aldehydes and other irritants are removed from the raw materials.

In addition to ether, eucalyptus leaves contain a lot of valuable components:

In terms of the presence of phytoncides, eucalyptus is the absolute champion among essential oil plants. Force natural antibiotics is such that they easily destroy the dysentery bacillus, prevent the appearance of staphylococci and streptococci, and suppress the development of trichomonas.

For what diseases is eucalyptus decoction used?

The rich chemical composition of the leaves makes them an indispensable medicine for many diseases caused by viruses, fungi and bacteria. Eucalyptus decoctions have a pronounced antiseptic, analgesic, expectorant, antimicrobial and antiputrefactive effect.

An aqueous extract from the leaves is used in the following areas of medicine:

infectious diseases respiratory tract (laryngitis, bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, asthma, pleurisy, pneumonia, pharyngitis);
gynecological practice (inflammation of the uterus and appendages, candidiasis, erosion, purulent mastitis, colpitis, vaginosis);
gastrointestinal pathologies (dysentery, helminthic infestations, gastritis with low acidity);
urological diseases (cystitis, prostatitis, urethritis);
skin lesions (pediculosis, pustular rashes, eczema and dermatitis, herpes virus, burns, frostbite);
joint disorders (rheumatism, radiculitis, arthritis, osteomyelitis, open fractures);
for irrigation of external wounds and ulcers, phlegmons, abscesses, washing fistulas.

Eucalyptus decoction has long been considered the best remedy for fever. It was used for the treatment and prevention of various pathological conditions accompanying infectious diseases: cholera, typhoid, malaria.

Advice. An aqueous extract from the leaves helps quickly relieve itching from mosquito bites and other insects.

Use of eucalyptus decoction

A decoction of the leaves is taken orally and used externally. Gargle with a warm solution, irrigate the nasopharynx and douche. Medicine used for inhalations and compresses, they are used to wash and rinse hair.

If the prescription requires oral administration of the drug, it is recommended to do this after meals, without exceeding the frequency and dosage of administration.

To increase acidity

To improve digestion and eliminate the symptoms of hypoacid gastritis, prepare a decoction of 10–15 grams of dry raw materials and a glass of water.

The mixture is steamed for steam bath for at least half an hour, cool under the lid and filter. The finished composition is added with water to 250 ml and placed in the refrigerator. Take 30–50 ml three times a day, preferably slightly warmed, so as not to cause spasms in the intestines. The decoction relieves inflammation and improves motor skills.

To strengthen the immune system

There is a simple recipe for increasing the body's resistance using eucalyptus:

A teaspoon of dry raw materials is poured with a glass of water;
The mixture is placed in an enamel bowl and brought to a boil.
Cover and leave for 30 minutes.
The finished broth is filtered.

Take the drug for a month, drinking a glass of warm solution every day. To improve the taste, add a spoonful of honey to the composition.

In obstetrics and gynecology

Eucalyptus decoction is often used for leucorrhoea that has not been eliminated by others. antiseptic drugs, colpitis, vaginitis and others gynecological diseases inflammatory and purulent in nature. The use of hot solutions for deep lesions of the female genital organs acts not only antiseptically, but also physiotherapeutically.

For douching, prepare a decoction of 30 grams of dry leaf and a glass of liquid. The mixture is kept in a water bath, cooled, filtered and used for its intended purpose.

Irrigation of the mucous membrane is performed 1–2 times a day (the last time before bedtime), adding a glass of decoction per liter of hot liquid. Vaginal tamponing is carried out with a gauze or cotton swab dipped in a concentrated solution.

It was noted that after the first douching it is eliminated putrid smell, after 3-4 procedures, the amount of discharge decreases and healing of erosion begins.

Attention. Warm eucalyptus decoction is successfully used for prenatal and postpartum douching to reduce complications and reduce the risk of infections.

For chronic sinusitis

With this persistent and difficult-to-treat ailment, the antimicrobial and antiseptic properties of eucalyptus turned out to be very useful. A strong decoction of the leaves helps just as well modern antibiotics, and does not cause allergies or complications.

Prepare the product from 15 ml of dry leaf (heaped tablespoon) and a glass of water. A warm decoction is used to rinse the sinuses at least 2 times a day. Can be used after puncture.

For chronic pharyngitis

If pharyngitis has already entered a sluggish stage, herbalists recommend using a decoction of eucalyptus through the nose.

The drug is made like this:

Prepare strong black tea at the rate of 1 tsp. leaf per glass of boiling water.
The cooled and strained drink is poured into the eucalyptus raw material and kept on low heat for 5 minutes.
The mixture is cooled and carefully filtered through 2–3 layers of gauze.
IN warm solution add a spoonful of honey.

Shake the finished composition and inject 8–10 drops into each nostril so that the solution flows down back wall throats. 4–5 procedures are performed per day. Treatment is continued until symptoms disappear, but for at least 7 days.

Advice. A similarly prepared decoction can be taken orally for bronchitis, asthma or cough. Take a spoonful after each meal.

For sore throat

To eliminate symptoms acute tonsillitis prepare a hot rinse from a eucalyptus leaf. Dry raw materials in the amount of 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of liquid, heat in a water bath, cool and filter. For increase therapeutic effect Add a spoonful of honey to the warm solution.

Gargle with the resulting product and use it for inhalation.

For skin diseases

For external use, prepare a highly concentrated decoction of eucalyptus - 3 tbsp. l. raw materials per glass of water. The mixture is heated in a steam bath, then placed in a thermos and kept for 4–5 hours. The finished solution is filtered and used in the form of lotions or compresses on the affected areas of the body.

Advice. The same solution can be used for joint pain, arthritis and rheumatism. Gauze soaked in hot broth is applied to the affected joint and insulated well.

Peritonitis

After conducting laboratory and experimental studies, doctors were convinced of the effectiveness of eucalyptus decoction in the treatment of peritonitis.

The concentrated solution is used to rinse the opened abdominal cavity after surgical removal causes of inflammation. After processing the tissues, abdominal cavity pour in ½ liter of warm broth and sew it up tightly.

No complications were observed after the procedure. All patients recovered quickly and soon left the hospital.

Contraindications

Modern medicine limits the use of eucalyptus decoction for peptic ulcer stomach, pathologies of the biliary tract and liver. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a physician first and obtain his or her approval. An absolute contraindication is an allergy to the components of the solution.

Eucalyptus leaves have excellent properties. Thus, they are widely used in the treatment inflammatory processes in organism. In addition, the plant has remarkable antiseptic and soothing effects. The drug can be used even by children, because it contains no harmful components.

ATC

R02AA20 Other drugs

Active ingredients

Eucalyptus leaf extract

Pharmacological group

Herbal medicine with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects

pharmachologic effect

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Antimicrobials

Antiseptic (disinfectant) preparations

Indications for use of eucalyptus leaves

Indications for use of Eucalyptus leaves are quite wide. The fact is that active ingredients This plant can fight many inflammatory processes.

Eucalyptus leaves are used as part of a complex treatment of acute and chronic diseases of infectious and inflammatory etiology and various localizations:

But, despite the presence of a large number positive properties, it’s not worth using the medicine just like that. Everything must be approved by the attending physician. Otherwise, the remedy may have negative impact. After all, not all groups of people are suitable for treatment with Eucalyptus leaves, this factor worth considering.

Release form

The release form can be varied. So, this product is mainly produced in the form of ordinary herbal tea. One package contains 20 sachets of 200 grams each. This dosage is quite enough to achieve a certain effect during use.

There is also a slightly different packaging, these are ordinary filter bags, but this already contains only 1.5-2 grams active substance. The main components of the product are essential oils, tanning components, organic acids and others. All this together has an incredible effect on the body as a whole.

The product is also produced in the form of cut leaves; one package contains 100 grams. There is also a tincture of the drug, one bottle contains 25 ml. In what form to take the drug is determined by the attending physician. After all, some options contain increased amount active component in its composition. Therefore, before purchasing Eucalyptus leaves, you should consult a doctor.

Pharmacokinetics

Due to the fact that the drug is used in the form of tea or tincture, its absorption into the body occurs instantly. The product does not stay there for long and is removed from it quite quickly. The first pass effect remains in the liver. But, thanks to the content of only natural ingredients, no negative action it doesn't turn out to be on her.

The drug is excreted through the kidneys. Maximum concentration the drug in the body is achieved almost instantly. But all this goes towards easing the condition as a whole. Eucalyptus leaves have a wonderful effect on the human body.

Use of eucalyptus leaves during pregnancy

The use of Eucalyptus leaves during pregnancy is not recommended. No studies have been conducted on the effect of active components on the body of women and children. Therefore, it is difficult to say exactly how all this will affect the development of the fetus.

It is possible that the active components can penetrate into the baby’s body along with mother’s milk. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the product during breastfeeding. If there is a persistent need, it is better to consult a doctor. In this case, you should not make a decision on your own. It's quite possible that you can get by alternative ways solving the problem.

On early stages pregnancy, any influence can lead to the development of serious pathologies in the child. This medication may not necessarily cause this. In this case, generalized information is indicated. At this time, you should be extra careful so as not to harm the baby. Therefore, it is still not worth taking Eucalyptus leaves.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications for the use of Eucalyptus leaves. But still, one should not exclude a certain risk for people who suffer from increased hypersensitivity to some components of the drug. Use in this case may lead to the development of serious allergic reactions. Moreover, their complexity depends on dose taken.

Naturally, pregnant mothers, breastfeeding and children are prohibited. At this time it is better to refrain from taking of this medication. Special group people with diabetes mellitus, because the drug contains sugar. The use of the drug can lead to an increase in blood glucose levels.

All this indicates that you should not prescribe the remedy yourself. In any case, consultation with a doctor is necessary. After all, everyone’s body is individual, and it’s difficult to say what the reaction might be. Eucalyptus leaves do not contain negative components, but they still need to be taken with caution.

Side effects of eucalyptus leaves

Eucalyptus leaves may have side effects, but it all depends on the dose taken. So, if you start taking medication on your own and do not know about the presence of sensitivity to certain components, it can lead to the development of some problems. Allergic reactions are not excluded. The fact is that the body in this case reacts in a very unique way. You should not take medication without your doctor's consent.

With a significantly increased dose, problems with the gastrointestinal tract may also occur. The fact is that these organs first respond to negative influences. Nausea and vomiting may occur. In this case, the drug should be stopped immediately.

Headaches may develop against the background of problems with the gastrointestinal tract. This also indicates the presence of certain problems. If any negative factors, you need to immediately seek help from medical institutions. Eucalyptus leaves do not pose any fundamental danger, but they can provoke the manifestation side effects they can.

Directions for use and doses

The method of application and dose of Eucalyptus leaves depend on the form of release. Thus, the leaves are widely used for washing wounds. They are useful in the form of rinses, inhalations and douches. In each of these cases, you need to be able to prepare the product correctly. So, to make a universal medicine, you will have to brew the chopped leaves in water or simply use a tincture. In any case, you need to take one tablespoon of the product and dilute it in a glass of water.

Eucalyptus tincture or oil from this plant in the amount of 10-20 drops is dissolved in a glass of water. All the above steps are carried out with this solution. They should be performed as needed. Douching is performed no more than 2 times a day. Much depends in this case on the nature of the inflammation.

The tincture can also be used internally. In this case, you need to drink 15-20 drops. In this form, Eucalyptus leaves have an effective anti-inflammatory and calming effect, so as not to harm the body, it is not recommended to exceed the given dosage.

Overdose

An overdose of Eucalyptus leaves has not yet been observed. But, despite this factor, it is worth exercising some caution when using the product. Even if it is not capable of causing negative symptoms, it is not worth excluding them completely.

Thus, with an increased concentration of the drug in the body, it may react negatively. gastrointestinal tract. It manifests itself in the form of nausea and vomiting. This indicates that the drug content exceeded acceptable standards. You should immediately begin gastric lavage. In some cases, an appointment is made activated carbon, it will help remove toxins from the body and alleviate the situation.

If the symptoms of overdose are quite serious, then resort to symptomatic treatment. In any case, you should not eliminate the symptoms of an overdose on your own. The maximum that a person can do is cleanse his body. Consulting a doctor about further use of Eucalyptus leaves is a necessary and necessary measure.

Interactions with other drugs

Interactions with other drugs are possible, but if they do not contain eucalyptus or essential oils. After all, they can cause an increase in each other’s action. All this leads to an overdose. In this case, you will have to stop taking the medication.

Do not take the product with other anti-inflammatory substances. It is also possible to enhance each other's action. It is worth noting that eucalyptus has sedative functions. Therefore, it should not be used with other sedatives. The effect can be significantly enhanced. All this will negatively affect the body as a whole.

You should consult your doctor about interactions with other drugs. Especially if a person high sugar in blood. This requires special dose adjustment. You should not take the medication yourself, because it can cause a negative reaction from the body. Eucalyptus leaves are an excellent remedy in the fight against many negative problems, but when taking it you must follow certain rules.

Nature has created many miracles, one of which is eucalyptus. Today, this plant is rightfully considered the hallmark of Australia, although it is already actively grown on other continents. Eucalyptus, the medicinal properties of which are described below, is a plant that is striking in its size. It can reach a height of 100 meters or more.

In addition, the exotic giant differs from other plants in that, having a luxurious crown, the tree provides virtually no shade. And this is due to the vertical arrangement of the leaves. Another unusual property plants – unusually fast growth rate. Eucalyptus can grow twenty meters or more in just a few years.

But the height and beauty of eucalyptus is not everything, since the plant has healing properties. Of all plant species, the most healing is eucalyptus globulus. Products based on leaves and essential oils are used for therapy various pathologies: tracheitis, sore throat, colds, skin ailments, burns.

Botanical characteristics

Eucalyptus is an evergreen plant of the Myrtle family, reaching a height of 50-70 meters or more. The plant is endowed with a powerful root system, a straight trunk, smooth grayish-white bark, opposite stem-embracing or sessile broadly lanceolate long fragrant leaves, and large single axillary flowers.

The fruits of the plant are four-walled boxes. Eucalyptus blooms in the third to fifth year of life, in the autumn, and the fruits ripen only several years later.

The homeland of the plant is the island of Tasmania and Australia. Black Sea coast Caucasus, Azerbaijan, South America, New Zealand, China - places where the evergreen tree grows. The plant is frost-resistant and can easily tolerate prolonged temperature drops of up to ten degrees.

Collection, preparation, storage

For the manufacture of medicines Eucalyptus leaves are mainly used. It is recommended to collect raw materials no earlier than the middle autumn period. The leaves are cut using a file or pruning shears. After collection, the leaves are laid out in a thin layer on racks and dried in a sufficiently ventilated area. To prevent rotting of the leaves, they need to be stirred periodically. You can dry the raw materials in a dryer, but in this case you need to choose the right temperature - no more than forty degrees.

Eucalyptus - medicinal properties and composition

The plant contains a lot of:

The substances that make up the plant give it a lot of healing properties. The plant has expectorant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, restorative, sedative, wound-healing, immunostimulating, antimicrobial, cardiotonic, antispasmodic and antiseptic effects.

Plant preparations contribute to:

normalization of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
strengthening immune system;
restoration of the body after illnesses;
eliminating fatigue;
improved breathing;
reduction of cough;
removal of sputum;
relief from fever;
elimination of inflammatory processes

Medicines from the leaves of the plant treat such pathologies as: bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, dysentery, radiculitis, diphtheria, fistula, cystitis, scarlet fever, myositis.

Folk recipes

Trophic ulcers, sore throats: use of decoction

Pour twenty grams of dried crushed eucalyptus leaves with water - 300 ml. Place the container on the stove, boil the composition, then reduce the heat and simmer the composition for ten minutes. Cool the product and filter. This tool used for douching, dressings, compresses and inhalations.

Bronchitis: infusion therapy

Brew fifteen grams of dry leaves of the plant in half a liter of boiling water. Leave the container in a warm place for three hours. Drink half a glass of medicine three times a day.

Sore throat: use of inhalations

Dilute ten drops of eucalyptus essential oil in 700 ml of boiled water. Pour the mixture into a basin, cover with a towel and bend over the container. Breathe the steam for ten minutes. If you feel slight dizziness, take a break for a few minutes.

Preparation of a decoction for wound therapy

Pour a couple of tablespoons of dried plant leaves into a glass of boiled water. The product must be boiled and then simmered over low heat for ten minutes. Let the composition sit for a while. Soak a gauze pad in the broth and apply the product to the skin around the wound. Carry out the procedure twice a day.

Stomatitis: treatment with eucalyptus

Pour ten grams of dry leaves of the plant into an emulated saucepan, pour cold water– 300 ml. Boil the mixture, cool slightly. Use mouthwash several times a day.

Pyoderma: infusion therapy

Combine eucalyptus leaves with lilac flowers, toadflax grass, wormwood, cornflower flowers, and St. John's wort in equal proportions. Grind the ingredients and brew ten grams of the mixture in half a liter of water. Leave the product in a warm place for three hours. It is recommended to consume fifty milliliters of the drug twice a day.

Skin pathologies: use of baths

Mix a spoonful of crushed eucalyptus leaves with the same amount of lilac flowers, leaves walnut, elderberry flowers, speedwell grass, centaury and clover. Steam a few spoons of the mixture in a liter of boiling water. It is necessary to infuse the product for two hours, then filter. Add the infusion to the filled hot water bath The duration of the procedure is fifteen minutes. You need to take healing baths twice a week.

Eucalyptus in the treatment of algodismenorrhea

Combine equal amounts of eucalyptus leaves with violet herb, motherwort, yarrow, fennel fruits, poplar buds, flaxseed, rhizomes of elecampane. Finely chop the ingredients and brew in 400 milliliters of boiling water. Leave the composition for three hours. Filter and consume a quarter glass of the drug twice a day. The course of treatment should be three months.

Headaches (migraines): treatment with infusion

To prepare the medicine, take a spoonful of dried and crushed plants: eucalyptus leaves, fireweed herb, linden blossom, marjoram shoots, thyme, veronica leaves. Brew a couple of spoons of the mixture in half a liter of boiling water. Place the container in a warm place for several hours. You need to take twenty milliliters of medication several times a day. The duration of the therapeutic course is three months.

Hemorrhoids: use of baths

Mix eucalyptus leaves with cudweed grass, horsetail, toadflax, lemon balm, willow bark, and chamomile flowers. Steam 20 grams of the mixture in half a liter of boiled water. Let the product sit a little. Use for sitz baths, once a day.

The medicinal properties of eucalyptus and its contraindications is a new topic in the “Healing Plants” section on the website.

Description of the eucalyptus plant, photo

Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree belonging to the myrtle family. It grows in height from 25 to 100 meters and has narrow, fragrant leaves.

Where does eucalyptus grow?

Eucalyptus is native to Australia and New Zealand. It was the peculiarities of the climate of this country that forced the plants to adapt. In eucalyptus, the leaf cover can protect them from excess water evaporation, and the roots can reach water at a fairly large depth. This tree can also grow in a swamp, absorbing excess moisture with its roots.

The medicinal properties of eucalyptus are so unique that they have led to its spread throughout all areas suitable for growth, mainly in subtropical and tropical climates.

In adulthood, eucalyptus trees can withstand frosts of up to 12 degrees. They prefer to grow in sandy, clay or peaty soils. Eucalyptus is light-loving and does not tolerate shade at all. It produces shoots, due to which it can easily and quickly recover in case of death of the above-ground part.

Eucalyptus varieties

There are several types of these trees, but only three are of interest to the pharmaceutical industry: ash-shaped, globular and twig-shaped.

Ash eucalyptus has reddish bark and ash-gray leaves. The tree is small, only about 25 meters.

The spherical variety grows up to 60 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. The leaves are bluish with a waxy coating. Grows wild on the island of Tasmania and Australia. In Moldova and Azerbaijan it is widespread as a cultivated plant. This type of eucalyptus can grow in a swamp, as it is able to pump out water with its roots.

The twig-shaped eucalyptus can reach 50 meters in height and a diameter of one and a half meters. It has a straight trunk with bark yellow color. The leaves are light green. Small flowers bloom in October.

Medicinal properties of eucalyptus leaves

Eucalyptus leaves have the following beneficial properties:

Eucalyptus leaves contain many healing essential oils with phytoncides wide range actions. Regarding the medicinal properties of eucalyptus, both folk and traditional medicine, more than ever, agree in one opinion.

In terms of the amount of phytoncides in leaves, eucalyptus ranks first among all plants. It is indispensable for fever and malaria, and can relieve itching and redness from insect bites.

Procurement of raw materials and their storage

It is impossible to break off eucalyptus branches, so medicinal raw materials are collected during decorative pruning. In autumn, the leaves are carefully picked and laid out to dry in a ventilated area, or a special dryer is used. The drying temperature should not exceed 40 degrees, otherwise the oil may evaporate.

Keep collected material Can be kept for no more than two years in the dark in glass jars.

Eucalyptus contraindications

There are usually no negative effects of eucalyptus medicinal raw materials on the human body, especially if you follow the instructions and dosages. But it happens that when taking the oil internally, nausea and even vomiting may occur. Sometimes diarrhea occurs. This means individual intolerance.

Such symptoms do not require treatment. Stopping the medication allows you to get rid of them quickly.

Treatment with eucalyptus (both external and internal) cannot be used for children under three years of age.

Contraindications are diseases of the liver, kidneys and stomach.

You cannot use the data herbal remedy with whooping cough.

Inhalation is contraindicated for patients with bronchial asthma.

It is not advisable to use eucalyptus essential oils during pregnancy.

Eucalyptus is a herbal medicine, and therefore it is good to combine it with other similar drugs.

Eucalyptus leaves - medicinal uses

In medicine, essential oils, tinctures, decoctions and creams are made from eucalyptus medicinal raw materials. These include:

Chlorophyllipt.

This medicine is used to treat staphylococcal infection. It is produced in the form of oil and alcohol solution, as well as ampoules for oral use. External use helps regenerate tissue and quickly heal wounds. This medicine treats sepsis, abscesses, peritonitis and other diseases.

You can use it to make compresses and rinses. Before prescribing a medicine, the doctor checks the patient for allergies and tolerance.

Eucalyptus oil.

The drug is sold in pharmacies and is intended for pain relief for rheumatism and joint diseases. To treat head lice, rub it on the head. For colds, the oil is used for rinsing and inhalation. They even treat conjunctivitis in ophthalmology.

Anti-bite powder is used to repel insects by rubbing open areas skin.

A tincture on the leaves is prepared from dry medicinal raw materials and is used for lung diseases. It is used to treat: flu, colds, coughs. It is indispensable for gynecological diseases. It is used for rubbing and rheumatism.

Also added to water (20 drops per glass of water) when washing a runny nose, for rinsing.

Decoction They are also prepared on the leaves by brewing 2 tablespoons of dry raw materials in a glass of boiling water. Drink 1 tablespoon three times a day for gastritis with low acidity and pain in the intestines.

The decoction can be used to wash wounds and douche for pathologies. genitourinary system, gargle or inhale.

Based on eucalyptus raw materials, Pectusin tablets, Eucatol drops, Ingacamf inhaler and Ingalipt spray are produced.

Traditional medicine and eucalyptus

For treatment bronchial asthma For coughs and bronchitis, brew eucalyptus leaves and drink them as tea. Can be combined with thyme and coltsfoot.

Aromatherapy with eucalyptus for coughs and colds

This is a young trend in folk medicine, already quite popular among the population. This is the name of the procedure using essential oils to purify the air from harmful microorganisms. It especially helps with colds.

In practice it is used: aroma bath, aroma massage, aroma lamp and inhalation with eucalyptus. Aromatherapy is used to cleanse the indoor air of germs. A few drops of oil are enough for the procedures.

During the aroma bath procedure, essential oils enter through the human skin and through breathing through the air.

It is used for genitourinary tract infections, colds or problems with musculoskeletal system. At high temperatures, the procedure is prohibited. To take such a bath, 5 drops of eucalyptus oil are stirred in a glass of milk and poured into bathing water.

Can be used in the bath brooms with eucalyptus branches. Even smokers can do this.

Aroma massage relieves headache and joint pain.

To do this, add a few drops of eucalyptus to any oil used for rubbing for massage.

Inhalations with eucalyptus done for colds (three to five leaves of the plant or 5 drops of eucalyptus tincture or three drops of eucalyptus oil per 100 ml of water), eucalyptus inhalations also help with inflammatory diseases throat and upper respiratory tract, bronchitis, even pneumonia.

For the aroma lamp, take 4-5 drops of eucalyptus oil.

Eucalyptus leaves are even placed in pillows - people who use this attribute fall asleep faster, relax more easily, and suffer less from colds.

Eucalyptus in cosmetology

In cosmetology, eucalyptus tincture is used to treat hair loss, dry skin, herpes rashes, and furunculosis. Relieves itching from insect bites and plant burns.

For oily, inflamed skin, add eucalyptus oil (a few drops) to the face cream or lotion used. This product effectively heals microcracks and relieves itching.

The benefits of eucalyptus in all its dosage forms there is no doubt, and if there are no contraindications, this is the plant of choice for many inflammatory diseases.