Eucalyptus TeaThe pungent lance-shaped eucalyptus leaves are used to make herbal tea, or more accurately called an herbal infusion or tisane, although sometimes a little eucalyptus bark is added too. The leaves have a strong scent because they are rich in aromatic oils such as eucalyptol. The leaves are usually dried and lightly macerated before adding hot water and steeping for at least 15 minutes in order to draw all the beneficial compounds out of the plant fibres. However, don’t use boiling water because some of the compounds are destroyed with high heat.Benefits of EucalyptolEucalyptol comprises about 70 percent of the volatile oil in eucalyptus leaves. In addition to being a strong antibacterial, eucalyptol affects the mucus membranes that line the nose, sinuses and lungs, which leads to decongestion and the release of mucus and phlegm. Consequently, eucalyptus products such as oil extracts, teas and lozenges are safe and effective for reducing the symptoms of head colds, sore throats, sinus infections and bronchitis. Eucalyptus oil is toxic if consumed in large doses, which is why the leaves are typically heated and inhaled. Eucalyptus tea, which is much more dilute than oil extracts, has the dual benefit of being able to be inhaled and consumed.Other Beneficial CompoundsEucalyptus leaves also contain tannins, which are astringents, and caffeic and gallic acids, which are strong antioxidants also found in green tea. Antioxidants eliminate free radicals, which damage a variety of tissues, especially blood vessels and skin. Other strong antioxidants found in eucalyptus leaves include hyperin, eucalyptrin, quercetin, rutin, alpha-pinene, limonene and alpha-termineol. The combination of these compounds with the volatile oils in the leaves makes eucalyptus tea an effective breath freshener, mouthwash, deodorant and topical antibacterial.Side effects from drinking eucalyptus tea are rare and mild, but eucalyptus oil is toxic and harmful in single doses as small as 3.5 millilitres. It’s virtually impossible for you to consume that much oil in one day from drinking eucalyptus tea, but to be on the safe side, it’s probably a good idea not to allow children to drink it. Consult with an herbalist or practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine before consuming large amounts of eucalyptus tea.CautionsSide effects from drinking eucalyptus tea are rare and mild, but eucalyptus oil is toxic and harmful in single doses as small as 3.5 millilitres. It’s virtually impossible for you to consume that much oil in one day from drinking eucalyptus tea, but to be on the safe side, it’s probably a good idea not to allow children to drink it. Consult with an herbalist or practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine before consuming large amounts of eucalyptus tea.