Can you eat eucalyptus sap?

In this brief guide, we will answer the query, “can you eat eucalyptus sap?”. We will also talk about the use of eucalyptus sap, eucalyptus oil, and its health benefits.

Can you eat eucalyptus sap?

No, eating eucalyptus sap is not recommended and not much research has been done on the toxicity to humans. The eucalyptus sap is blood red in colour and leaks through the scarred bark of the tree.

Although aboriginal Australians used to crush and boil the eucalyptus sap for medicinal use, just like the oil from the leaves and the flowers of the eucalyptus tree, the sap also contains the same chemical compounds that can be hazardous to human health.

What is eucalyptus sap?

Eucalyptus sap leaks from the scarred bark and helps protect the tree wood and develop new bark just like the pus does to wounds on humans. The eucalyptus sap is blood red in colour and is packed with similar chemical compounds and nutrients as the leaves and the bark of the tree.

Some insects and animals feed from it. The sap is a liquid present inside the stem of the trees which is responsible for the transport of minerals and nutrients throughout the plant. When bruised, the sap leaks through the scars.

What are the uses of eucalyptus sap?

Sometimes the sap or gum dries and hardens to form crystals that can be collected, crushed, and stored for future use. The tree sap has an antiseptic quality which can be applied to any wounds, sores, and burns for faster healing by simply soaking it in warm water to form a gel.

The eucalyptus bark can also be burnt to create smoke to ward off any insects, much likely mosquitoes as it acts as an insect repellant.

What is eucalyptus oil?

Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree native to Australia. The leaves are steam distilled to extract oil that has many wonderful uses. It is generally used to reduce symptoms of cold, cough, and nasal congestion.

Eucalyptus oil has many health benefits and is safe to be used during pregnancy. But one should be mindful to not ingest eucalyptus drops orally. It can be used in aromatherapy or applied topically by mixing with a carrier oil.

What are the health benefits of eucalyptus oils?

There are various health benefits to the use of eucalyptus oils during pregnancy. Here we discuss some benefits.

Helps fight cold, cough, and congestion

Cold, cough, and nasal congestion cannot be avoided during the winter months and it is not the best situation to be in. Eucalyptus drops give quick relief from these ailments. The strong aroma of the eucalyptus drops helps in loosening the mucus and relief congestion.

Acts as a natural antiseptic

Eucalyptus oil is perfect for healing and treating minor wounds because of its antiseptic qualities. It works by reducing the inflammation of the affected area of the skin.

Relieves from muscle pain

Massaging the part of the body with much pain and ache with eucalyptus oil works like magic. It helps heal the sprains, aches, and pain in different parts of the body.

Cures skin diseases

Eucalyptus oil has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties that help in treating skin conditions like acne. Acne develops during pregnancy and can be cured using eucalyptus drops.

Heals cold sores

The anti-inflammatory quality of eucalyptus oil eases the symptoms of herpes by helping reduce pain and speed up the healing process.

Precautions to be taken while using essential eucalyptus oil?

Eucalyptus oil is regarded to be safe on the skin as long as it is diluted with a carrier oil. It should not be directly applied topically without diluting. If applied to the skin without dilution, it can produce a burning sensation and skin irritation causing rashes.

It is always important to do a patch test before applying the eucalyptus oil because it is highly allergenic. A patch test can be done by applying the oil to the inside of the arm, if there is no reaction within 24 hours, then it is safe to use.

It is not safe to intake essential eucalyptus oil orally because it can be hazardous. The signs of eucalyptus poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. It may also include dizziness and feelings of suffocation. If any of the symptoms persist after the use of eucalyptus oil, immediate consultation with the doctor is highly advised.

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we answered the query, “can you eat eucalyptus sap?”. We also talked about the use of eucalyptus sap, eucalyptus oil, and its health benefits.

I hope you find this blog useful. If you have any questions, please let us know.

References

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/type-eucalyptus-bark-poisonous-86967.html

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