Steam inhalation with eucalyptus is a popular home remedy for treating mild cold and flu symptoms. Essentially, this complementary therapy involves covering your head with a towel over a bowl of water to which eucalyptus leaves or their essential oil have been added, and inhaling the resulting steam.
Among the approximately 900 species of the genus Eucalyptus L’Héritier, one of the most widely used is Eucalyptus globulus, or blue gum, which has expectorant and antibacterial properties and is used to treat inflammation of the respiratory tract, making it very effective in relieving coughs. This is thanks to its main component: eucalyptol (1,8-cineole).
However, information about its effectiveness and safety is insufficient and, in some cases, contradictory. To clarify the situation, join us as we differentiate between the myths and the truths associated with this traditional practice.
1. They relieve nasal congestion and cough
This is a true belief. When the heat from the steam and eucalyptus penetrates the sinuses, it has a decongestant effect, thinning nasal secretions and thus aiding in their expulsion. Because it facilitates breathing, inhaling eucalyptus steam can relieve coughs, colds, and sinusitis.
However, keep in mind that the effectiveness of this practice is conditioned by the severity of the person’s symptoms and whether they have pre-existing conditions.
2. They eliminate viruses and bacteria
Myth. Eucalyptus essential oils can indeed inhibit the growth of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as well as fungi, including Candida albicans, thanks to their high concentration of cineole. However, these observations have been made in in vitro studies. The same is true for viruses.
Consequently, the main component of eucalyptus (eucalyptol or 1,8-cineole) does not eliminate pathogens in the respiratory tract, so it would not be enough to eradicate fungal, bacterial, or viral infections, although it would be beneficial as a complementary therapy.
3. They are safe for children and pregnant women
Myth. If you’re wondering about the contraindications of eucalyptus, you should know that seizures and other adverse effects on the nervous system have been reported in infants and children exposed to eucalyptus oil, so inhalation, application to the skin, and oral consumption are not recommended.
In the case of pregnant and breastfeeding women, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support or refute its use. Therefore, it should not be used in these cases without first consulting a specialist.
4. They could cause burns
That’s right. If hot water isn’t handled carefully during this traditional practice, there’s a risk of injury. In fact, there have been reported cases of children with scalds caused by steam inhalation used to treat colds.
Furthermore, inhaling excessively hot steam can damage the lining of the lungs. When this occurs, the symptoms of people with asthma can worsen, particularly because it can cause the muscles surrounding the airways to constrict.
5. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects
That’s right. According to a study published in Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, conducted with people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, eucalyptus inhalation reduces pain and improves patients’ quality of life. Furthermore, this natural remedy using eucalyptus oil has been reported to have analgesic effects after knee replacement surgery.
6. They may interact with medications and herbs
True. Eucalyptus can have moderate interactions with about 100 different medications. Eucalyptol, one of the active compounds in the essential oil used for eucalyptus steam inhalation, could interfere with medications used to treat diabetes, because it could lower blood sugar levels too much, respiratory conditions, such as bronchodilators, or drugs that are metabolized in the liver.
Incidentally, if combined with medicinal herbs, such as mint, it could enhance the effect of this home remedy and cause side effects.
7. With undiluted eucalyptus oil
False. Eucalyptus oil must be properly diluted to minimize the risk of irritation to the airways, throat, or nose. If you wish to try this therapy at home, we recommend considering the preparation suggested with essential oil in a study published in the Flavour and Fragrance Journal:
- Add twelve drops of eucalyptus essential oil to every 150 milliliters of hot water. Alternatively, you can use a 1.5% v/v solution prepared with one tablespoon (15 milliliters) per liter of warm water.
- Cover your head with a towel, close your eyes, and inhale the steam for a few minutes.
- You can repeat the treatment a maximum of three times a day.
- Apply this complementary therapy safely.
As you have seen, eucalyptus steam inhalation is beneficial as a complementary therapy if you wish to relieve mild cold symptoms, thanks to its decongestant and expectorant properties.
However, when performing these inhalations, you must ensure the steam is not too hot to avoid damaging your airways or risking burns, especially in children. Likewise, you should consult a doctor if you are taking medication or wish to combine this practice with any other herbs, as prioritizing your health and that of your family is paramount.
Finally, remember that if you suffer from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this home remedy is not recommended, as it may worsen your symptoms. The same applies if you have epilepsy, since eucalyptol could increase the risk of seizures.
