How to Boil Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus is often used as a natural medicine for mild throat and respiratory problems. When used as a medicine, the leaves of the eucalyptus plant are boiled in plain water. The fumes of the boiling water can be inhaled to help ease respiratory problems, while sore throats can be treated by drinking the water in which the leaves are boiled. The process for boiling eucalyptus is the same, regardless of how you intend to take it.
Rinse the eucalyptus leaves under water to remove dirt and other debris.
Put the eucalyptus in a clean pot. Add water until it's about an inch above the eucalyptus.
- Eucalyptus is often used as a natural medicine for mild throat and respiratory problems.
- The fumes of the boiling water can be inhaled to help ease respiratory problems, while sore throats can be treated by drinking the water in which the leaves are boiled.
Put a tight fitting lid on the pot. It's important that the lid is tight, as it will retain the vapors from the eucalyptus.
Put the pot on the stove at high heat. Let the water boil for 3 to 5 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat. If you want to inhale the vapors, this can be done immediately after you remove the pot from the heat. If you are going to drink it as a tea, wait for the water to cool down for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Put a tight fitting lid on the pot.
- If you want to inhale the vapors, this can be done immediately after you remove the pot from the heat.
Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves
The leaves of the eucalyptus tree have been used in Aboriginal medicinal remedies for thousands of years. Nowadays they are also used in modern medicine to treat various common ailments. Fresh eucalyptus leaves can be used in home remedies, but always consult a health professional before following any course of treatment. Keep this mixture in a cool, dark place. mixed with water, two or three times per day. Place the jar on a windowsill in direct sunlight for at least two weeks, then strain and leaves and transfer the oil into a bottle. Apply the oil liberally where required.
- The leaves of the eucalyptus tree have been used in Aboriginal medicinal remedies for thousands of years.
- Place the jar on a windowsill in direct sunlight for at least two weeks, then strain and leaves and transfer the oil into a bottle.
Tip
When inhaling the vapors, use 1 part leaves to 3 parts water. For example, 1 cup of leaves should be added to 3 cups of water.
When making tea, use 1 part leaves to 6 parts water.
Related Articles
References
- University of Florida: Teas & Herbs
- Gardens Ablaze: Eucalyptus Medicine
- Gardens Ablaze: Medicinal Uses of Eucalyptus
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health: 175 Teas, Tonics, Oils, Salves, Tinctures, and Other Natural Remedies for the Entire Family"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2008
Tips
- When inhaling the vapors, use 1 part leaves to 3 parts water. For example, 1 cup of leaves should be added to 3 cups of water.
- When making tea, use 1 part leaves to 6 parts water.
Writer Bio
Kenneth Coppens began his freelance writing career in 2008. His passions in life consist of extensive personal research on food, gardening and finding natural and eco-friendly alternatives to nearly all aspects of life.
