EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS ESSENTIAL OIL: Uses and benefits

General information and properties:

Eucalyptus Globulus essential oil, along with Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil, are widely known and recommended to treat respiratory system conditions. Its anti-infective activity related to the presence of alpha-pinene, together with its mucolytic and expectorant power related to the presence of alpha-pinene and 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) are especially suitable for the treatment of diseases such as bronchitis, sinusitis and greasy cough among other conditions of the respiratory system. Eucalyptus Globulus essential oil is specifically recommended for adults, while Eucalyptus Radiata is recommended for children. 1.8 cineole increases the ciliary motor activity of the respiratory tree, stimulating the efficient expulsion of mucus. Eucalyptol inhibits inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor TNF-α, interleukin-1β, leukotriene B4, inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase and development of Prostaglandins PGE2. These actions contribute to reduce the inflammatory processes commonly treated by steroids. During a clinical trial with a patient treated with prednisolone, the administration of eucalyptol made it possible to reduce the dose of prednisolone, demonstrating an activity similar to that of steroids in obstructive respiratory diseases such as asthma. It should be noted that eucalyptol does not have the side effects of steroids. Animal research warns that the indications of Eucalyptus Globulus for conditions of the respiratory system are probably related to its ability to reduce the activity of the TLR4 receptor in the bronchioles and the excess production of mucus caused by lipopolysaccharides. Spasmolytic and bronchodilator activity. In obstructive pathologies of the respiratory tree, such as asthma or obstructive pulmonary disease (BCPO), the bronchi contract, inflame, and hypersecrete mucus. Eucalyptus essential oils rich in 1,8-cineole have a spasmolytic effect on smooth muscle fibers: in a context of respiratory obstruction, this muscle-relaxing effect produces beneficial dilation of the bronchi for the patient.
Decongestant and antitussive activity.
The anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects are generated by the rebound effect:
Decreased mucus production and therefore dryness of the nasal and bronchial passages. a decrease in the frequency of coughs associated with infectious conditions of the respiratory tract, such as colds and nasopharyngitis, or with inflammatory diseases such as asthma. Eucalyptol has proven antibacterial activity against various species of Staphylococcus sp. and alpha-pinene against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae and the fungi Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Both molecules are involved in defense mechanisms against parasites and viruses.