Eucalyptol- What Is It? All You Need To Know About Eucalyptol
Eucalyptol
ˌyü-kə-ˈlip-təl | Noun
Eucalyptol, also known as cineol, is a monoterpenoid found in hemp, sweet basil, tea tree, eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, and other plants. This terpene exhibits a fresh, minty scent and a spicy, cooling flavor. Eucalyptol possesses respiratory and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties.
“I use eucalyptol-infused cough drops to ease cold symptoms.”
“I’ve planted several herbs that contain eucalyptol in my garden.”
What is it?
It’s a terpene identified by French chemist Francois Stanislas Cloez in 1870. Before the 19th century, eucalyptol was a common ingredient in herbal medicine used as a cough suppressant, antibacterial cleanser, and mood lifter. Today, this terpene has a myriad of uses, especially in the wellness industry as a massage oil and in aromatherapy.
Companies incorporate eucalyptol into cold and sinus medications because it aids breathing. The tobacco industry uses eucalyptol frequently to improve cigarette flavor. In low doses, this terpene serves as a culinary ingredient. If used in higher doses, it shows adverse effects on the respiratory tract, reproductive system, and nervous system. Like other terpenes, it’s an ingredient in chemical formulas for commercial insecticides. However, it’s important to note that this terpene attracts male orchid bees, causing the bees to become more territorially aggressive.
Everyday uses of eucalyptol
A widely used terpene that you may find in your medicine cabinet or at the spa. Spas use it in body treatments, massages, and facials. If you’ve ever used cough drops or mouthwash, you’ve encountered its fresh, minty scent. Bakers use this terpene in pastries in trace amounts. It’s also present in soft drinks and chewy candy. If you like to cook, you’ve probably sprinkled this terpene into your dishes, maybe through rosemary or bay leaves.
Therapeutic benefits of eucalyptol
The benefits of this terpene revolve around its aid of respiratory symptoms and cognitive function.
Anti-inflammatory and respiratory effects
Several studies demonstrate eucalyptol’s anti-inflammatory and respiratory effects. A placebo-controlled clinical trial found that this terpene presents incredible efficacy for various respiratory disorders. Some conditions include asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, cigarette smoke irritation, COPD, and more. People suffering from such conditions may benefit from its ability to help improve lung function and reduce mucus. Many of its benefits stem from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Cognitive function
Inflammation in the brain may contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease. One 2014 study published in Neurochemistry Research revealed that eucalyptol reduced the signs of inflammation. This terpene lowered the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, suggesting protective effects on inflammation in neurodegenerative disease. Human studies show that exposure to this terpene in rosemary oil and its presence in the bloodstream positively correlates with increased cognitive performance.
Where to find it in hemp
As a secondary terpene, it’s present in numerous hemp strains in trace amounts. Many hemp CBD products, including our Full Spectrum CBD Balm, are infused with eucalyptus oil, which contains this terpene and over 3.8% total terpenes. Formulated to absorb its ingredients quickly, this topical balm provides relief into the trouble areas.