The Benefits of Hanging Eucalyptus in the Shower—and How to Do It

Eucalyptus makes a beautiful addition to floral arrangements and is also striking as a stand-alone plant thanks to its beautiful blue-green, coin-shaped leaves. But the greenery is more than just a decorative piece: The fragrant scent that fresh eucalyptus emits has aromatherapeutic properties that make it as beneficial as it is eye-catching. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve respiratory health, and give energy levels a boost. One way to reap the benefits of eucalyptus is by hanging it in the shower—here, we explain the benefits of using eucalyptus in the shower, as well as how to make a bundle to hang over your showerhead.

What Is Eucalyptus?

Eucalyptus is a large genus of flowering plants, with most species being trees or shrubs. The plant is native to Australia, but now can be found all over the world. The leaves and oils of eucalyptus can often be found in creams, ointments, and other products to treat common ailments.

Benefits of Eucalyptus

The inhalation of eucalyptus has been associated with reduced inflammation, increased mood, and improved respiratory health.

Reduces Inflammation

One of the biggest claims about eucalyptus is that it has anti-inflammatory properties. "The leaves of the eucalyptus trees contain flavonoids (plant-based antioxidants) and tannins (that help with inflammation)," says Tamika Henry, MD, IFMCP, a board-certified family physician and functional medicine doctor. "Therefore, the contents of the eucalyptus leaves can contribute to a reduction in inflammation."

Boosts Energy Levels

If you often feel fatigued, eucalyptus is also effective at boosting energy levels and helping to promote mental clarity and alertness. "While eucalyptus can have benefits when it comes to reducing stress, it is less in the form of relaxation and more in an uplifting and invigorating manner," says Dale Amanda Tylor, MD, MPH, otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon and co-owner of Riviera ENT.

Improves Respiratory Health

From a respiratory standpoint, eucalyptus can have many positive impacts. "It has been studied in conditions such as sinusitis and bronchitis to help with inflammation and clearance of excessive mucus," says Dr. Tylor. "It has also shown promise in helping patients recover from acute bronchitis more quickly."

Why You Should Hang Eucalyptus in the Shower

While you can experience the plant's aromatherapeutic properties by inhaling the scent of the dried leaves or essential oil, it can be especially beneficial to hang eucalyptus in the shower. "Hanging eucalyptus in the shower may allow a diffusion of its active agents and can provide the health impacts of eucalyptus by inhaling it in a relatively confined and relaxing place," says Dr. Tylor.

How to Make a Eucalyptus Shower Bundle

Making a eucalyptus bundle to hang in the shower is quite easy. The plant can be found at grocery stores, florists, and online. "You want fresh, green sprigs that are aromatic, meaning you can smell the eucalyptus easily," says Amy Rothenberg, N.D., a naturopathic doctor and president of the Massachusetts Society of Naturopathic Doctors.

1. Buy a bouquet or individual branches of eucalyptus.
2. Go over the leaves with a rolling pin to release the aromas.
3. Collect the branches into a bunch and tie a rubber band or twine around the stems.
4. Drape it over your shower head or on a hook inside the shower enclosure.

How Long Eucalyptus Lasts in the Shower

A bunch of fresh eucalyptus should stay fresh in your shower for two to three weeks—depending on the moisture in the room. Keep a close eye on it, though. "If you use fresh eucalyptus, you'll want to swap out for a fresh batch when you start to see mold, browning, or when it's lost its appealing aroma," says Dr. Rothenberg.

Other Ways to Use Eucalyptus

Hanging eucalyptus in the shower is one way to reap its benefits, but there are a few other ways you can use the plant that don't require always needing a fresh bundle.

• Diffuse the oil: Obtain eucalyptus essential oil and pour a few drops into a diffuser. This can disperse the oil within your living space, says Dr. Tylor.
• Make a body oil: Mix eucalyptus with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, to make a body ointment. Always be sure to mix it with a carrier oil and do a patch test first, as applying it to the body directly can cause skin irritation, says Dr. Tylor.
• Make a sachet: Buy or make a sachet of crushed up eucalyptus leaves. "Some people will even use cedar sachets with the scent of eucalyptus oil in their closets to help deodorize garments and repel pests," says Dr. Tylor.

Using Eucalyptus Safely

It's important to exercise caution when using eucalyptus around the house. "The compounds found within eucalyptus can be potentially toxic when ingested and can cause serious side effects when doses are too high," says Dr. Tylor. "Adverse effects of eucalyptus oil can include nausea, dizziness, seizures, abdominal discomfort, decreased ventilation, delirium, suppression of the central nervous system, and even death."

It can be especially dangerous as a pure essential oil and should be diluted with carrier oil if being used on the skin. "In children, pets, and some adults, even 2 to 3 milliliters can result in significant side effects, some even life-threatening," says Dr. Tylor. "Keeping eucalyptus oil out of reach of children and pets is particularly important."