Eucalyptus Lemon Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses, and DIY Recipes for Natural Wellness

Eucalyptus Lemon, scientifically known as Eucalyptus citriodora, is a remarkable essential oil with a refreshing, citrusy aroma and an impressive range of therapeutic benefits. Sourced from the lush landscapes of Madagascar, this oil is well known for its powerful medicinal and aromatic properties. In this article, we’ll explore its history, benefits, and how to use it effectively.

A Brief History of Eucalyptus Lemon

Originally native to Australia, Eucalyptus citriodora has spread to various tropical and subtropical regions, including Madagascar, where it thrives in the warm climate. The tree is highly valued for its essential oil, which has been used for centuries by indigenous communities for its medicinal and insect-repelling properties. Over time, it gained popularity worldwide, especially in aromatherapy and natural medicine, due to its ability to soothe pain, fight infections, and promote relaxation.

The Benefits of Eucalyptus Lemon Essential Oil

Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil is packed with therapeutic properties that make it an essential addition to any natural health toolkit. Here’s how it can benefit you:

🔹 Pain Relief (Analgesic)

This oil helps alleviate muscle and joint pain, making it ideal for those suffering from arthritis, headaches, or general body aches. A gentle massage with a carrier oil can provide relief.

🔹 Fights Bacteria (Antibacterial & Antiseptic)

Eucalyptus Lemon has strong antibacterial properties, which make it effective in preventing bacterial growth and keeping infections at bay. It’s often used in natural cleaning products and wound care.

🔹 Protects Against Fungal Infections (Antifungal)

If you struggle with fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or nail fungus, this oil can help combat and prevent their spread. Simply dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area.

🔹 Prevents and Treats Infections (Anti-infectious)

Its ability to support the immune system and fight infections makes it an excellent natural remedy for minor cuts, scrapes, or respiratory conditions.

🔹 Reduces Inflammation (Anti-inflammatory)

Eucalyptus Lemon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort in muscles and joints. It can be used in massage oils or added to a bath for soothing relief.

🔹 Soothes Spasms (Antispasmodic)

It is effective in easing muscle cramps, spasms, and tension. When blended with a carrier oil, it can be massaged onto sore muscles for relaxation.

🔹 Promotes Relaxation (Calmative & Sedative Effect)

The fresh, lemony scent has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it great for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Diffusing it before bedtime can improve sleep quality.

🔹 Natural Insect Repellent

One of its most famous uses is as an insect repellent. Mosquitoes and other bugs dislike its strong aroma, making it a natural alternative to chemical repellents.

🔹 Speeds Up Wound Healing (Vulnerary)

Due to its antiseptic and healing properties, Eucalyptus Lemon helps wounds heal faster and prevents infections when applied in a diluted form.

 

How to Use Eucalyptus Lemon Essential Oil

There are many ways to incorporate this versatile oil into your daily routine:

✔️ For pain relief: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba) and massage onto sore muscles or joints.

✔️ For respiratory support: Add a few drops to a bowl of steaming water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the vapors to clear congestion.

✔️ As an insect repellent: Blend with a carrier oil and apply to the skin, or add to a spray bottle with water and spritz around your home.

✔️ For relaxation: Diffuse in your home or add a few drops to a warm bath to relieve stress and promote calmness.

✔️ For skincare: Dilute and apply to minor wounds or fungal infections to aid healing.

✔️ For home cleaning: Add to natural cleaning solutions to disinfect surfaces and freshen the air.

 

1. Analgesic (Pain Relief) Recipes

🌿 Muscle Relaxation Massage Oil

Ingredients:

• 10 ml jojoba oil
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops Lavender essential oil

Dilution: 2.5%

Ingredients (for 30 ml bottle):

• 30 ml jojoba oil (light, absorbs well, and nourishes skin)
• 6 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (anti-inflammatory, pain relief)
• 6 drops Peppermint essential oil (cooling, relieves muscle tension)
• 6 drops Lavender essential oil (calming, helps with muscle recovery)

Dilution: 2.5%

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to the glass bottle, swirl around to mix.
• Fill with jojoba oil and shake well.
• Massage a small amount onto sore muscles and joints as needed.
• For enhanced relaxation, apply after a warm bath or shower.

 

🌿 Tension Headache Relief Roll-On

Ingredients:

• 10 ml roller bottle
• 10 ml jojoba oil
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Peppermint essential oil

Dilution: 2%

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to a 10 ml roller bottle.
• Fill the rest of the bottle with jojoba oil and shake well.
• Apply to temples, forehead, and back of the neck when experiencing headaches or tension.
• Avoid getting near the eyes.

 

🌿 Post-Workout Bath Soak

Ingredients:

• 240 ml Epsom salts
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Rosemary essential oil
• 15 ml carrier oil (olive or jojoba)

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix the essential oils with the carrier oil (this step is crucial for safe dispersion).
• Add the oil blend to the Epsom salts and mix well.
• Pour the mixture into a warm bath and stir to dissolve.
• Soak for 15–20 minutes to relax muscles and relieve soreness.

 

🌿 Arthritis Relief Compress

Ingredients:

• 500 ml warm water
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Ginger essential oil
• 1 teaspoon carrier oil (jojoba, olive, or coconut oil) (to disperse essential oils safely)
• 1 soft cloth

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix essential oils with the carrier oil or Castile soap (this step ensures the oils disperse evenly).
• Add the oil blend to the 500 ml of warm water and stir well.
• Soak a soft cloth in the mixture, wring out excess liquid, and apply to affected joints.
• Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then remove.
• Repeat as needed for pain relief.

 

🌿 Deep Tissue Massage Blend

Ingredients:

• 10 ml sweet almond oil
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Wintergreen essential oil
• 2 drops Black Pepper essential oil

or in

• 30 ml jojoba oil
• 9 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 6 drops Wintergreen essential oil
• 6 drops Black Pepper essential oil

Dilution: 3% (Safe & Effective for Muscle Pain Relief)

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a glass roller bottle or a bottle with pipette.
• Shake gently before use.
• Massage a small amount onto sore muscles and areas of tension.
• Avoid use on broken skin, sensitive areas, or in large amounts.

 

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2. Antibacterial & Antiseptic Recipes

🌿 Alcohol-Free Antiviral Hand Sanitizer Spray

Ingredients:

• 30 ml witch hazel (natural astringent & antimicrobial)
• 20 ml aloe vera gel or hydrosol (soothing & hydrating)
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (antibacterial, antiviral, refreshing)
• 2 drops Niaouli OR Ravintsara essential oil (potent antiviral, respiratory support)
• 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil (antifungal, antibacterial, immune-boosting)
• ½ teaspoon vegetable glycerin (optional, adds moisture & helps mix oils)

Dilution: 1.5% (Effective yet safe for regular hand use)

Instructions:

• In a glass spray bottle, combine witch hazel and aloe vera gel.
• Add the essential oils and shake well before each use.
• Spray onto hands and rub gently until dry.

 

🌿 Antibacterial All-Purpose Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 250 ml distilled water
• 50 ml white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon liquid Castile soap/Marseille soap or natural emulsifier (helps disperse essential oils evenly)
• 8 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 5 drops Lemon essential oil

Instructions:

• In a glass spray bottle, mix distilled water and vinegar.
• Add Castile soap (or another natural emulsifier) to help disperse the oils.
• Add essential oils and shake well before each use.
• Spray onto surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

 

🌿 Anti-Acne Face Steam

Ingredients:

• 500 ml hot water
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• Optional: 1 drop Lavender essential oil (for calming skin inflammation)

Instructions:

• Heat 500 ml of water until steaming, but not boiling (about 60-70°C).
• Pour the hot water into a large bowl.
• Add essential oils and stir gently.
• Cover your head with a towel and position your face about 30 cm above the bowl.
• Close your eyes and inhale deeply for 5 minutes (take breaks if needed).
• Pat your face dry and follow with a gentle moisturizer.

 

🌿 Wound Care Spray

Ingredients:

• 50 ml aloe vera gel
• 1 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 1 drops Lavender essential oil

• ½ teaspoon solubilizer (liquid Castile soap, vegetable glycerin, or jojoba oil) to disperse the oils

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• Mix essential oils with the solubilizer first.
• Add the blend to aloe vera gel or juice and stir well.
• Pour into a spray bottle and shake before each use.
• Spray lightly onto minor cuts, scrapes, or burns as needed.

 

🌿 Natural Foot Spray

Ingredients:

• 100 ml water
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 3 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• 3 drops Peppermint essential oil
• Optional: ½ teaspoon solubilizer (Castile soap, aloe vera gel, or fractionated coconut oil) to properly mix the oils

Dilution: 1.5%

Instructions:

• Add essential oils to witch hazel or aloe vera in a glass spray bottle.
• Shake well before each use to disperse the oils.
• Lightly mist onto clean, dry feet once or twice daily to prevent odor and bacteria.
• Allow to dry before putting on socks or shoes.

 

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3. Antifungal Recipes

🌿 Anti-Fungal Foot Soak

Ingredients:

• 240 ml Epsom salt
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix the essential oils with the carrier oil or Castile soap. (This step is to prevent skin irritation!)
• Add the oil blend to the Epsom salt and stir well.
• Dissolve the mixture in a basin of warm water.
• Soak feet for 15 minutes and pat dry.

 

🌿 Anti-Fungal Nail Serum

Ingredients:

• 10 ml jojoba oil
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Oregano essential oil

Dilution: 2.5% 

Instructions:

1. Mix essential oils together and then into jojoba oil in a small glass bottle.
2. Apply a small amount to affected nails daily using a clean cotton swab.
3. Allow to absorb before wearing socks or shoes.

 

🌿 Athlete’s Foot Powder

Ingredients:

• 50 ml cornstarch
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Clove essential oil

Dilution: 1.5%

Instructions:

• Place cornstarch in a dry glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
• Add essential oils drop by drop, stirring continuously to distribute the oils evenly.
• Seal the jar and let the mixture sit for 24 hours to fully absorb the oils.
• Apply a small amount to clean, dry feet once or twice daily.

 

🌿 Fungal Skin Infection Balm

Ingredients:

• 30 ml shea butter
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 3 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Dilution: 2%

Instructions:
Blend and apply to affected areas twice a day.

 

🌿 Mouth Rinse for Oral Thrush

Ingredients:

• 250 ml warm water (soothing for oral tissues)
• 1 drop Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (antifungal, antibacterial, supports oral health)
• 1 drop Clove essential oil (strong antifungal, provides relief for oral discomfort)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (helps reduce inflammation and discomfort)
• ½ teaspoon coconut oil (acts as a natural dispersant and has additional healing properties)

Dilution: 0.2% (Safe for oral use, avoiding mucosal irritation)

Instructions:

• In a cup, dissolve the sea salt and coconut oil in warm water (37-40°C).
• Add Eucalyptus Lemon and Clove essential oils and stir thoroughly to help disperse them.
• Take a small sip and swish in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out (do not swallow).
• Use 1–2 times per day as needed.

 

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4. Anti-Inflammatory Recipes

🌿 Joint Pain Relief Balm

Ingredients:

• 30 ml jojoba or coconut oil
• 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Frankincense essential oil

Dilution: 2%

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to a 30 ml glass jar or bottle.
• Pour in the jojoba or coconut oil and stir/mix well.
• Massage a small amount onto inflamed joints 2–3 times daily.
• Store in a cool, dark place to preserve the oil’s effectiveness.

 

🌿 Sore Throat Steam

Ingredients:

• 500 ml hot water
• 1 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 1 drops Peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Heat 500 ml of water until steaming but not boiling (too hot can irritate airways).
• Pour the water into a large heat-safe bowl.
• Add Eucalyptus Lemon and Peppermint essential oils 
• Cover your head with a towel, position your face about 30 cm above the bowl, and close your eyes.
• Inhale deeply for 5 minutes, taking breaks if needed.
• Repeat as needed for sore throat relief, up to twice daily.

 

🌿 After-Sun Cooling Lotion

Ingredients:

• 50 ml aloe vera gel
• 2 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Lavender essential oil

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• In a small glass jar or bottle, mix essential oils with the aloe vera gel.
• Stir well until fully blended.
• Apply a thin layer to sunburned skin 2–3 times per day as needed.
• Store in the refrigerator for an extra cooling effect.

 

🌿 Sinus Relief Inhaler

Ingredients:

• 1 personal inhaler
• 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Dilution: ~2%

Instructions:

• Place the cotton wick or absorbent pad inside the inhaler tube.
• Add the essential oils directly onto the wick.
• Secure the inhaler cap and allow oils to absorb for a few minutes.
• To use, inhale deeply through the inhaler for 3–5 breaths per nostril as needed.
• Use up to 3 times per day for congestion relief.

 

🌿 Inflamed Skin Compress

Ingredients:

• 500 ml cold water
• 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 2 drops Chamomile essential oil
• ½ teaspoon carrier oil (jojoba or olive oil) OR ½ teaspoon liquid aloe vera (to properly disperse essential oils)

Dilution: 1%

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, mix essential oils with carrier oil or liquid aloe vera (this prevents undiluted oils from sitting on the water's surface).
• Pour the mixture into 500 ml of cold water and stir well.
• Soak a soft cloth in the mixture, wring out excess liquid, and apply to inflamed skin.
• Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then remove.
• Repeat as needed for cooling relief.

 

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5. Insect Repellent Recipes

🌿 Bug Spray

A natural way to keep mosquitoes away.

• 100 ml witch hazel or distilled water
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 3 drops Citronella essential oil
• 3 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Dilution: 1.5%

How to Use:

1. Add essential oils to warm water or witch hazel.
2. Shake well, then pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
3. Transfer into a spray bottle and let cool before use.
4. Shake before spraying onto exposed skin

 

🌿 Mosquito Repellent Candle

Ingredients:

• 1 unscented candle
• 5 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 5 drops Lemongrass essential oil

Instructions:
Melt wax slightly, add oils, and let solidify.

🌿 Insect Repelling Room Spray

Ingredients:

• 250 ml distilled water 
• 10 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil

Instructions:
Spray around doors and windows.

 

🌿 Anti-Tick Dog Spray

Helps deter ticks naturally.

• 100 ml witch hazel or aloe vera
• 1 drop Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 1 drop Lavender essential oil
• 1 drop Cedarwood essential oil (optional)

Dilution: 0.5%

How to Use:

1. Mix oils with witch hazel or aloe vera.
2. Shake well before transferring to a spray bottle.
3. Lightly mist onto dog’s collar, harness, or bandana (not directly on the fur).
4. Do NOT use on cats!

 

🌿 Outdoor Diffuser Blend

Ingredients:

• 5-10 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 3-5 drops Citronella essential oil

Instructions:
Diffuse outdoors to keep insects away.

 

 

Key Differences: Eucalyptus Lemon vs. Other Eucalyptus Oils

Unlike other eucalyptus varieties that have a strong menthol-like scent, Eucalyptus citriodora is known for its soft, lemony fragrance with subtle woody undertones. This refreshing scent comes from its high citronellal content, making it not only beneficial for respiratory and muscular relief but also an excellent natural insect repellent.

 

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Why Choose Eucalyptus Lemon?

While all eucalyptus oils offer some shared benefits, Eucalyptus Lemon is the best choice if you’re looking for:

✔️ A Natural Insect Repellent – The high citronellal content makes it one of the best mosquito and bug repellents in nature.

✔️ A Milder Alternative for Respiratory Support – Unlike Eucalyptus globulus, which can be too intense for children or sensitive individuals, Eucalyptus Lemon is gentler on the airways.

✔️ A More Relaxing Eucalyptus Option – If you find regular eucalyptus too stimulating, the calming and citrusy aroma of Eucalyptus citriodora can be a better choice for stress relief and sleep support.

✔️ A Refreshing Scent for Home & Body Care – Its lemon-like freshness makes it perfect for DIY deodorants, cleaning products, and summer blends.

✔️ Soothing for Muscles & Joints – It still offers anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for post-workout relief and gentle pain management.

 

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When to Choose Other Eucalyptus Oils

🔹 If you need strong respiratory relief, Eucalyptus globulus is your best option because of its higher eucalyptol content, which is excellent for clearing congestion.

🔹 If you’re looking for a gentle eucalyptus oil for children or those with sensitive airways, Eucalyptus radiata might be a better fit as it has a milder, slightly sweeter scent.

 

What Oils Blend Well with Eucalyptus Lemon?

Eucalyptus Lemon has a fresh, citrusy, slightly woody aroma, making it a perfect match for oils that are:
✔️ Citrusy (like Lemon or Orange) – to brighten the mood
✔️ Herbaceous (like Lavender or Tea Tree) – to enhance relaxation or immunity
✔️ Spicy/Warming (like Ginger or Black Pepper) – to improve pain relief
✔️ Cooling/Minty (like Peppermint or Spearmint) – for respiratory and muscle relief

 

Best Synergies by Category:

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DIY Blends Featuring Eucalyptus Lemon

Here are some easy and effective essential oil blends for different purposes.

🌿 1. Relax & Unwind Diffuser Blend

Perfect for stress relief and sleep.
✔️ 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon
✔️ 3 drops Lavender
✔️ 2 drops Bergamot

How to Use:
Add to your diffuser before bedtime or when you need a moment of calm.

 

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🌿 2. Natural Bug Repellent Spray

A refreshing and chemical-free way to keep mosquitoes away.

• 100 ml witch hazel or distilled water (witch hazel helps essential oils disperse better)
• 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (repels mosquitoes, ticks, and insects)
• 3 drops Citronella essential oil (strong insect repellent, commonly used in outdoor candles)
• 3 drops Tea Tree essential oil (antibacterial, antifungal, and helps deter bugs)
  

Dilution: 2%

How to Use:

• Add essential oils to witch hazel or distilled water in a 100 ml glass spray bottle.
• Shake well before each use.
• Lightly mist onto exposed skin (avoid the face and eyes).
• Can also be sprayed around doorways, windows, or outdoor seating areas.

 

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🌿 3. Sore Muscle Relief Massage Oil

Ideal after a workout or for general pain relief.

For a 10 ml Bottle:

• 10 ml carrier oil (coconut or jojoba) (absorbs well, nourishes skin)
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (anti-inflammatory, soothes pain)
• 2 drops Black Pepper essential oil (warming, improves circulation)
• 2 drops Ginger essential oil (reduces muscle stiffness and tension)

Dilution: 3% 

For a 30 ml Bottle:

• 30 ml carrier oil (coconut or jojoba)
• 9 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 6 drops Black Pepper essential oil
• 6 drops Ginger essential oil

Dilution: 3% (Keeps it strong yet safe for larger application areas)

How to Use:

• Add essential oils to a glass roller bottle or bottle with pipette, swirl around to mix the oils.
• Fill with carrier oil and shake gently.
• Massage onto sore muscles and joints after a workout or as needed.
• For enhanced relief, apply after a warm bath or shower.

 

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🌿 4. Breathe Easy Vapor Rub

Great for congestion and respiratory support.

• 30 ml coconut oil or shea butter (nourishing base, allows slow absorption)
• 3 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil (clears airways, anti-inflammatory)
• 2 drops Peppermint essential oil (cooling, relieves nasal congestion)
• 2 drops Tea Tree essential oil (antibacterial, antiviral, supports immunity)
  

Dilution: 2%

How to Use:

• If using shea butter, melt it gently in a double boiler and let it cool slightly.
• Add essential oils and stir well to combine.
• Pour into a small glass jar and allow it to solidify.
• Massage a small amount onto the chest, back, and throat before bedtime or as needed.
• Store in a cool, dark place.

 

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🌿 5. Uplifting Morning Shower Mist

Boosts energy and mood in the morning with this refreshing shower mist.

• 4 drops Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil
• 3 drops Sweet Orange essential oil
• 2 drops Spearmint or peppermint essential oil
• 100 ml distilled water (or alternative – see below)

How to Use:

1. Shake well before each use.
2. Before stepping into the shower, spray 3–5 times into the air inside the shower or onto the shower walls (avoid spraying directly onto your body).
3. Let the steam disperse the scent for an invigorating, spa-like experience.
4. Take deep breaths and enjoy the refreshing aroma to start your day feeling energized.

What If You Don’t Have Distilled Water?

If distilled water isn’t available, you can substitute it with:
✔️ Boiled & Cooled Water – Boil tap or filtered water for 5–10 minutes, then let it cool before using.
✔️ Filtered Water – If you have a high-quality water filter (like a Brita or reverse osmosis system), this is a good alternative.
✔️ Witch Hazel – Can be used instead of water to help preserve the blend and improve oil dispersion.

These alternatives ensure a longer shelf life and prevent bacteria buildup in your mist.

 

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How to Blend Eucalyptus Lemon Safely

• For Diffusers: Use 5-10 drops per 100 ml of water.
  
  
• For Skin Applications: Always dilute with a carrier oil (recommended dilution is 1-2% or about 2-4 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil).
  
  
• For Inhalation: Add 1-2 drops to a bowl of steaming water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale deeply.
  
  

• Room Sprays (Air Purifiers & Refreshers)

  • Standard dilution: 10–20 drops per 475 ml of water
  • Adjusted for 100 ml: 2–4 drops

•  Body Sprays & Mists

  • Standard dilution: 10–20 drops per 475 ml of water
  • Adjusted for 100 ml: 2–4 drops

• Face Sprays & Facial Mists

  • Standard dilution: 2–5 drops per 240 ml of water
  • Adjusted for 100 ml: 1–2 drops
    

   

 

Eucalyptus Lemon essential oil from Madagascar is a powerhouse of natural healing. Whether you're looking for a pain reliever, immune booster, or eco-friendly insect repellent, this oil has you covered. By incorporating it into your daily wellness routine, you can experience its many benefits while enjoying its fresh, citrusy scent.

 

Buy your Eucalyptus Lemon oil here