Eucalyptus (Eucalypto)
Latino folk healers have generally used the dried leaves and oil from the Eucalypto tree mostly for respiratory ailments. The plant is used in order to loosen coughs and decrease the symptoms of colds, fevers and even asthma, and is also thought to naturally boost immunity.
The plant is shown to reduce both the pain and swelling of mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. It can be a safe natural alternative for treating coughs, bronchitis, sinus pain and certain symptoms associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In fact, eucalyptus is one of the main ingredients found in Vicks VapoRub.
When used topically, eucalyptus oil is proved to decrease swelling from joint pain, genital herpes and acne, and also is a powerful insect repellant. In dentistry, the plant’s oil is used as a sealer and solvent for root canal fillings because of its antibacterial qualities.
However, modern medicine has one major warning: The plant’s oil should never be taken by mouth or applied to the skin at full strength. If it is not diluted, it could very severely poison the person taking it.
