Eucalyptus In The Shower: Why You Should Try This Spa-Like Experience

What, exactly, made this plant so invigorating? Here, all about eucalyptus's benefits and why the shower is the prime location, in addition to step-by-step instructions to DIY your own shower bundle.

One study found that eucalyptus essential oil had significant anti-inflammatory benefits (reducing participants' inflammatory response by 25% when used topically). Another recent study found that when the essential oil was used in a diffuser, its antifungal powers improved the surrounding space's air quality. And finally, eucalyptus oil's active compound 1,8-cineole may help clear mucus from airways, act as a natural cough suppressant, and ease sore throats. 

Thinking about adding some plant-power to your rinse? Allow these benefits to convince you.

But as she goes on to explain, it's said scent that does much of the heavy lifting when it comes to the key benefits.

"The scent of eucalyptus is gently invigorating without being overly stimulating. It calmly coaxes our awareness and concentration, which can be helpful in the morning! But it's also mild enough that it won't keep you awake after a before-bed shower or bath," says Buckley. After you take in your first deep breath in your shower, we think you'll agree.

"It's also very soothing to our respiratory system: It works as an anti-inflammatory to help decongest the upper respiratory system," she says. Think of this as your all natural vapor rub. 

"Eucalyptus is high in volatile oils, which evaporate when exposed to the air. Hanging eucalyptus in the shower means we get the benefit of the volatile oils as the steam releases them from the leaves and holds them in the air around us," she says. Essentially, when the plant interacts with the steam, it releases those potent essential oil droplets, creating a DIY diffuser of sorts. 

A basic eucalyptus shower bundle is fairly easy. Here, exactly what to do:

Now eucalyptus isn't your only option when it comes to shower botanicals. In fact, you can make your own bouquet that includes everything you prefer, and nothing you don't. Adding some florals and herbs to your eucalyptus bundle will make your shower experience even more spa-like. Here's how—and be sure to check out our guide to shower bouquets for more info.

There isn't a hard-and-fast deadline here, but you'll likely want to swap in a new bundle once the fragrance fades. "I think a good rule of thumb is to switch it out once its scent dissipates: usually after about a week," says Buckley. This makes sense: If the primary benefits come from inhaling the essential oils that waft from the plant, keeping it in the shower after those are gone just means you're not getting any of the purported benefits. 

Eucalyptus is a powerful plant with a long history. Having it around makes for a relaxing, sensorially appealing addition to your bathroom—with some heightened benefits when you keep it in your shower. If you're looking to learn about the benefits of some other shower-friendly botanicals, again we encourage you to check out our full guide to shower bouquets. Time to say ahh.