May Relieve Cold Symptoms
Eucalyptus is commonly used as a natural cold remedy and is a major ingredient in cold and cough products. Studies show that it can reduce mucus production and expand the bronchioles and bronchi of your lungs. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory agent. The major ingredient in eucalyptus that enables this property is console, which is a compound found in eucalyptus oil.
Studies have shown that eucalyptus relieves cold symptoms such as nasal congestion [1], cough frequency [2], and headache [3] by reducing mucus accumulation [4] and inflammation. Also, eucalypti may also help improve asthma symptoms.
One 12-week study gave 32 people with bronchial asthma either a placebo or 600 mg of eucalyptol per day. Those in the eucalyptol group needed 36% less drug to regulate their asthma symptoms. The people who used the control group required 7% less.
You can inhale eucalyptus oil through your nose and may provide some cold symptom relief. It is also found in many topical decongestants. Small doses of the oil may have negative effects on your health, so your doctor may advise you to stay away from them. It would help to contact your healthcare provider before using eucalyptol or changing your drugs.