Eucalyptus essential oil (1,8-cineole)
EMA Well-Established Use monograph for upper-respiratory symptoms, the standardised 1,8-cineole capsule (Soledum) has RCT signal in chronic bronchitis and sinusitis.
Why
Eucalyptus globulus essential oil, and the principal monoterpene 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), holds an EMA HMPC monograph at Well-Established Use for cough associated with cold. The standardised 1,8-cineole capsule (Soledum, 200 mg three times daily) has RCTs in acute bronchitis showing reduced cough frequency, and in acute and chronic rhinosinusitis with consistent symptom benefit. Inhalation use as steam or chest rub is the traditional form; encapsulated oral 1,8-cineole carries the higher-quality evidence.
How it works
1,8-cineole has secretolytic (mucus-loosening) and modest antibacterial effects on respiratory epithelium. Inhibits NF-κB and reduces leukotriene synthesis, anti-inflammatory action in airway mucosa. Activates TRPM8 cold-receptors, basis of the cooling sensation.
Expected onset · Symptom relief often within 4–7 days
How to take
Dosage
Standardised 1,8-cineole capsule (Soledum): 200 mg three times daily for 7–14 days acute use. Inhalation: 2–3 drops in hot water, breathe vapour 2–3 times daily.
Timing
Three times daily during symptomatic phase
On the label
Standardised 1,8-cineole capsule (Soledum, GeloMyrtol) is the form with RCT evidence. Generic eucalyptus oil is not equivalent for internal use.
Ideal for
Adults with acute or chronic bronchitis, rhinosinusitis, or productive cough.
Safety
Evidence
EMA classifies eucalyptus essential oil at Well-Established Use for cough associated with cold. Worth 2009 Respir Res RCT (n=242 COPD): cineole 200 mg three times daily significantly reduced exacerbation frequency and severity over 6 months. Kehrl 2004 Laryngoscope RCT (n=152 acute rhinosinusitis): cineole significantly improved sinusitis symptom score over 7 days.
- EMA HMPC monograph, Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (and other Eucalyptus species), aetheroleum (Well-Established Use + Traditional Use)
- Worth et al., Respir Res 2009, concomitant therapy with cineole (eucalyptole) reduces exacerbations in COPD: a placebo-controlled double-blind trial
- Kehrl et al., Laryngoscope 2004, therapy for acute nonpurulent rhinosinusitis with cineole (RCT, n=152)
Where to get it
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