Page 36 - Seniors Today - May21 Issue
P. 36
Side-effects: oil in an ounce of the carrier oil is sufficient
Just because the eucalyptus oil is a dilution.
naturally occurring substance, it does not
automatically become safe for use. Ideally, Interactions:
an allergen test should be performed if Eucalyptus oil is known to interact with
prolonged use is required. medications taken for diabetes, psychiatric
It is known to cause nausea and vomiting disorders and high cholesterol.
on ingestion. The Water Controversy:
It can, at times, aggravate bronchospasm Economically, eucalyptus trees constitute
in asthmatics, and reduce BP in one already one of the most valuable groups within
suffering from hypotension. the order Myrtales. They are grown
Those suffering with chronic liver or extensively because of their rapid growth
kidney failure should avoid it. and productivity.
It is not advisable to expose a child less The widespread cultivation of the tree has
than 2 years of age to eucalyptus; it may do been questioned by ecologists, who raise
more harm than good. concerns of the water table depletion by the
Pregnant women and lactating women plant. Some are concerned that the plant
should use it with caution. also causes nutritional depletion, as, being
It has also been known to cause irritation nutrition intensive; it deprives neighboring
if it enters the eyes. trees of adequate water and nutrition.
Consumption in amounts of 3 ml or more The plantations were subsequently studied
can cause complications, as far as possible, extensively to study the claims. It has been
avoid oral ingestion. found that, in fact, the water requirements
The oil can be applied directly on skin in a of the tree were less than that of others like
diluted form, ideally with carrier oil such as shisham and jamun.
olive oil. About 4 to 5 drops of eucalyptus So, is eucalyptus a blessing or a curse?
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