You and Eucalyptus
Being in Australia means it’s pretty easy to get your hands on eucalyptus leaves, and it is becoming even more common to see eucalyptus leaves in beautiful flower arrangements. But what can you do with the leaves once they start to dry out?
Eucalyptus leaves and the oil from them have been used for thousands of years to help with cold symptoms. Eucalyptus is a natural expectorant, which in simple terms, means it can help to get mucus off the chest.
So how can you take advantage of this glorious natural remedy? Simple - through your nostrils! Here are 3 simple ways you can take advantage of eucalyptus by making it part of your bathing routine:
Put the dried eucalyptus leaves (and some lavender if you have it) into a mortar and pestle and grind down into smaller pieces to activate the eucalyptus. Place into a mesh bag or old piece of clothing and tie closed. Place over the tap of your bath and let the hot water run through it as the bath fills up. Hop into the bath, sit back and breath in deep.
This option requires planning ahead. Take a handful of the eucalyptus leaves and cover with boiled water and steep in a sealed jar overnight. After you have run your bath, pour the steeped water through a strainer to remove the leaves and pour into the bath. Again, sit back, relax and breathe in deep.
Don’t have time for a bath? Simply take a bunch of the eucalyptus and hang over the shower head. While you are showering, the hot water and steam will release the oils as you shower.
And if you just love the smell of eucalyptus, you can add it to a small mesh bag with some citrus peel and hang it in your wardrobe so you can wake up to the beautiful scent every morning.
hc