This post first appeared on Piping Rock. All content is theirs.
Seasons change and so does your lifestyle.
What Is Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus Oil is sourced from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. This tree, which belongs to the Myrtaceae family, hails from Australia and Tasmania. It is a well-known plant that is often associated with cute Koala bears, since the leaves are these animals main form of food.
While it is known as Koala food, eucalyptus has more peculiar traits. In fact, its flowers have no petals. They appear to be fluffy blooms, but upon a closer look, they lack traditional floral characteristics. The "blooms" are made up of a central cone that sprouts dozens of stamens. These stamens can be brightly colored in a variety of hues; lime green, pink, or orange. Pretty interesting, huh?
The other cool thing about Eucalyptus is the fact it is self-sustainable. It is known for its fast growth. Therefore, it's become a mainstream source of wood for flooring, and essential oils. Its options are limitless!
Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus Oil's main selling point is its high concentration of cineole. Sounds funky, right? This naturally occurring substance in eucalyptus is responsible for its potent smell and many of its benefits. It is a colorless liquid and is found within the bark as well as leaves of the plant. In fact, it's a natural protector for the plant against predators.
Outside of this "secret" ingredient, Eucalyptus Oil is a renowned essential oil due to its aroma. The scent of the leaves and twigs, when steam-distilled, is strong and full-bodied. The oil touts refreshing, energizing, and clarifying properties that are perfect to open the mind, and awaken the spirits. Many enjoy adding a few drops to their diffuser at work to open pathways to the mind; others, use it to open the senses during a meditative bath.
Ways To Use Eucalyptus Oil In Your Daily Routine
Now that we've done a little digging into the world of eucalyptus, we should hop into the ways to enjoy it this fall.
Way 1: Shower Steam
As the leaves begin to fall (ha-ha) and the seasons change, it goes without saying the air becomes crisper. As a result, the shower becomes a haven. A bubble of warmth, and a way to rid the woes of the day. The perfect complement to this season change is the crisp aroma of eucalyptus oil...in your shower.
Place a few drops of Eucalyptus 100% Pure Essential Oil on the floor of the shower. Let the steam bring the scent up to your nose and breathe in its freshness.
Way 2: Skin Refresh Moisturizer
One thing that happens when the seasons change is our skin changes, too. For many of us, this means dry and dull skin. That is not ideal, especially after we enjoyed a summer glow.
To help keep things moisturized and dewy, use Eucalyptus Oil. In a few steps, you can have a go-to moisturizer all season long. So even as the leaves fall, and your tan fades, you'll look your best.
To make a moisturizer:
Melt 1 cup Shea Body Butter (Pure), and 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil in a double boiler. Once done, transfer to a glass container. Add 10 drops Eucalyptus Oil and let cool. Use daily.
Way 3: Bugs Away! Bomb
Going camping or making s'mores out back? Keep the bugs at bay by adding 2-3 drops of Citronella Oil, and 2-3 drops of Eucalyptus Oil on a hair tie. Wear on your wrist and tell the bugs, see ya later!
Way 4: Shorter Days Diffuser Blend
With the fall comes shorter days and longer nights. The adjustment to time can be a struggle. To keep your mind sharp and body in tune with it, try this blend in a diffuser on your desk:
2 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
2 drops Pine Essential Oil
1 drops Thyme Essential Oil
Way 5: Squeaky Clean Counter Cleaner
Last, but not least, is fall cleaning. Similar to the spring cleaning fever, fall cleaning is the perfect opportunity for you to start fresh in the autumn.
To make sure that your home smells great and looks sparkly clean, try this DIY Cleaner:
1/2 Cup Vinegar
1 Cup Hot Water
1/8 Tsp. Dish Soap (of choice)
10 Drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
We hope that these various uses of Eucalyptus Oil will guide you into the fall weather! Do you use this oil in other ways? Let us know in the comments below! We love to get inspired.