Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Eucalyptus, particularly its essential oil (Eucalyptus globulus), has a history of use in traditional medicine for respiratory and infectious conditions. Modern scientific studies have identified that its primary active component, 1,8-cineole (also known as eucalyptol), possesses notable antimicrobial and antiviral properties in vitro. Laboratory research has demonstrated that eucalyptus oil can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including influenza A, herpes simplex virus, and some rhinoviruses, mainly through disruption of viral envelopes and interference with viral entry into host cells. Additionally, eucalyptus oil exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal effects, which may help prevent secondary infections associated with viral illnesses.

However, while these findings are promising, the majority of evidence comes from laboratory (in vitro) studies and animal research. Human clinical trials directly evaluating the efficacy of eucalyptus or its oil for treating viral infections are limited, and most such studies focus on symptomatic relief (such as easing cough or congestion) rather than direct antiviral effects. As a result, major health organizations do not currently endorse eucalyptus as a primary treatment for viral infections. Nevertheless, its use as a supportive therapy for respiratory viral infections persists, both due to tradition and some scientific rationale. Overall, while eucalyptus shows antiviral activity in laboratory settings, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking, warranting a moderate-low evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

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