Eucalyptus oil is one of the most popular essential oils. It is a natural antiseptic with many versatile uses for you and your home. Its main component, Eucalyptol, is derived from the eucalyptus plant and is responsible for most of its benefits. If you are interested to know more about the eucalyptol terpene in CBD oil, we have listed everything there is to know.
Eucalyptol (1-8 cineol) is a terpenoid oxide. It is a naturally produced cyclic ether, a class of heterocyclic monomers, and a monoterpenoid. Monoterpinoids are C10 isoprenoids, having two isoprene units.
Eucalyptol’s chemical formula is C10H18O and its molecular mass is 154.249 g/mol. It is a colourless liquid with a fresh, mint-like smell, and a spicy cooling taste.
. Although it is insoluble in water, you can mix it with organic solvents. Along with hydrohalic acid, o-cresol, resorcinol, phosphoric acid, etc. Eucalyptol forms crystalline adducts which is very important in purification.
This terpene is a natural substance derived from herbal plants, such as Eucalyptus trees, once native to Australia. Now, these trees can be found anywhere in the world. You can extract it by drying, crushing and distilling the oval-shaped leaves. The oil needs to be diluted for medicinal use.
Eucalyptol can also be found in tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil, Artemisia spp—and even Cannabis sativa.
This terpene has both food and non-food properties, making it incredibly popular for use across a variety of substances.
Eucalyptus terpene is a popular constituent within many cough medicines. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce mucus and expand the bronchi and bronchioles of the lungs. So, it can be used to treat cough frequency and nasal congestion. It’s also great for managing chronic symptoms, such as asthma, airway mucus hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Eucalyptol boosts the skin’s ceramide production, water-holding capacity and skin barrier production. So, it can help moisturise your skin and treat skin disorders like dermatitis and psoriasis. Besides, skincare and beauty companies also use this extracted oil in their anti-acne and moisturiser products because of their anti-inflammatory and hydration properties.
As mentioned earlier, eucalyptol has anti-inflammatory benefits and is used to relieve pain, such as headaches and other body aches. Many over-the-counter creams and ointments for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis contain this essential oil.
Eucalyptol’s anti-anxiety properties can get rid of jitters and decrease symptoms of stress. Studies show that it decreases the activities of the sympathetic nervous system and increases the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system to promote relaxation.
When the PSNS is activated, the heart rate and breathing are slowed, the blood pressure is lowered and digestion increases for the body to enter into a relaxation state to recover faster.
Eucalyptol helps maintain dental health by preventing plaque buildup, gum bleeding and gum inflammation. It also decreases the bacteria causing cavities and gum diseases. Most mouthwash brands add eucalyptus extracts to their products.
Eucalyptol is a powerful insect repellent and can ward off mosquitoes and other insect bites for up to eight hours after topical application. Even the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists eucalyptol as an insect repellent.
Eucalyptol is added to foodstuffs to improve their odour and colour. They can enhance the flavour of a variety of nutraceuticals, cakes and creams. However, developing countries must take proper precautions to make sure eucalyptol-added foods are safe.
Eucalyptol has certain toxic properties and may lead to fatal adversities. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and children. It can cause seizures, lower consciousness levels, difficulty breathing, dermatitis, and even death.
Also, this substance may interfere with certain medications such as for diabetes, high cholesterol, acid reflux and psychiatric disorders.
Altmed uses eucalyptol within its CBD oils to help amplify its medicinal benefits. Such as, it is used in Gut Health to help reduce oxidative stress and chronic diseases. Focus and Flow use eucalyptol oil to increase concentration and performance on cognitive tasks.
If you’re unsure about the properties of terpenes or the use of CBD oil or alternative medicine practices, check out our resource and FAQ pages.
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