Uses & Effectiveness
Overview
Lemon eucalyptus is a tree. Oil from the leaves is applied to the skin as a medicine and insect repellent.
Lemon eucalyptus oil is used for preventing mosquito and deer tick bites; for treating muscle spasms, toenail fungus (onychomycosis), and osteoarthritis and other joint pain. It is also an ingredient in chest rubs used to relieve congestion.
Lemon eucalyptus oil, derived from the lemon-scented gum tree, contains citronellal, a natural compound that is believed to have mosquito-repellent properties, making it a popular ingredient in insect repellents.
Side Effects
Lemon eucalyptus oil is safe for most adults when applied to the skin as a mosquito repellent. Some people might have a skin reaction to the oil.
Lemon eucalyptus oil is UNSAFE to take by mouth. Some chest rubs for congestion (Vicks VapoRub) contain lemon eucalyptus oil. These products can cause seizures and death if eaten.
Interactions
We currently have no information for LEMON EUCALYPTUS overview.
Special Precautionsand Warnings
Lemon eucalyptus oil is safe for most adults when applied to the skin as a mosquito repellent. Some people might have a skin reaction to the oil.
Lemon eucalyptus oil is UNSAFE to take by mouth. Some chest rubs for congestion (Vicks VapoRub) contain lemon eucalyptus oil. These products can cause seizures and death if eaten. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of lemon eucalyptus oil during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Dosing
The following doses have been studied in scientific research:
APPLIED TO THE SKIN:
- For preventing mosquito bites: a 30%, 40%, or 75% lemon eucalyptus oil solution. However, the higher concentration does not seem to be more effective than the lower concentration. Commercial products available in the US (e.g., Repel Lemon Eucalyptus) contain 10% to 30% lemon eucalyptus oil. Directions on these products suggest applying the oil no more than twice per day. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the oil. Avoid getting it on your lips or into your mouth.
- For preventing ticks from attaching and biting: A specific 30% lemon eucalyptus oil extract (Citriodiol) has been applied up to three times daily when exposed to tick infested areas. This specific extract is used in commercial products such as Mosi-guard and Repel Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the oil. Avoid getting it on your lips or into your mouth.
