DavidWolfe.comLemon eucalyptus essential oil is derived from a lemon-scented gum eucalyptus plant. The oil boasts many health benefits, including the ability to strengthen the immune system, prevent respiratory infections, relieve pain, fight inflammation and improve digestive health. Lemon eucalyptus oil’s health benefits stem from its high concentration of antioxidants, nutrients and other healing compounds. (1)
Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil Health Benefits
1. Repels Insects
Lemon eucalyptus essential oil contains citronellal, which naturally drives away insects for up to eight hours after application. The oil can be used as a safe and natural replacement for DEET and other dangerous commercial insecticides. (2)
2. Improves Respiratory Health
The active ingredients in lemon eucalyptus essential oil naturally provide your respiratory system with a boost. Inhaling or diffusing the oil can help soothe irritated respiratory tracts, relieve sinus congestion and prevent coughing. (3)
3. Stimulates Circulation
The limonene and citronellal in lemon eucalyptus oil have the ability to stimulate both metabolism and circulation. These compounds work to speed up the body’s functions, providing more oxygenated blood and resources for cells, which leads to a natural energy boost.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Lemon eucalyptus essential oil can be used to relieve pain associated with joint disorders, muscle aches and workout strains. Applying the oil topically the affected area provides quick and natural pain relief. Lemon eucalyptus oil is commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. (4)
5. Boosts Immune System
The anti-fungal, antioxidant and antiseptic properties of lemon eucalyptus essential oil help make the oil a natural immune-booster. Applying the oil to cuts, wounds and scrapes can help prevent infections and promote healing.
6. Relieves Pain
Lemon eucalyptus essential oil contains antioxidants and other healing compounds for natural pain relief. Applying the oil topically can help relieve pain associated with headaches, muscle strains chronic pain disorders and acute pain disorders.
7. Prevents and Heals Insect Bites
Lemon eucalyptus oil has the ability to repel insects, as well as speed healing from insect bites. Applying the oil topically to insect bites, including those from mosquitoes, gnats, beetles and biting flies, can help provide relief from pain and inflammation. (5)
8. Improves Digestion
The anti-inflammatory properties of lemon eucalyptus essential oil work to soothe stomach problems. Inhaling the oil can help soothe indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, bloating, cramping and poor digestion.
9. Works as a Room Deodorizer
Diffusing lemon eucalyptus oil at home can help deodorize the room, improve respiratory health and give your immune system a boost. If your eyes are sensitive, diffuse the oil at home with caution to prevent any eye irritation.
Possible side effects of lemon eucalyptus oil may include:
- Skin Reactions: Lemon eucalyptus oil can cause skin inflammation. Do a patch test before applying the oil to a large area of your skin.
- Eye Irritation: If you have sensitive eyes, diffusing the oil throughout your home may cause bloodshot eyes or itching.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women and children should not use lemon eucalyptus oil due to its potency.
- Internal Consumption: Lemon eucalyptus oil should never be consumed. Consuming the oil can result in serious stomach symptoms, nausea, vomiting and painful cramping.