TikTokers are hanging eucalyptus in their shower for health reasons - here's why

One of the latest trends on TikTok has people hanging eucalyptus plants from their shower head in efforts to relieve respiratory issues and to encourage peace and relaxation. 

Various users on the popular video sharing platform have been seen hanging so-called ‘bath bouquets’ in their showers in an attempt to benefit from the plant’s natural properties.

 Many people favor eucalyptus when using one of the best diffusers for essential oils - but this TikTok trend takes things to a whole new level.  

In a recent video, one TikToker is seen prepping the eucalyptus branch, using a rolling pin to roll the plant over newspaper in order to promote the release of oils.

She then wraps the stems together with natural twine (you can use rubber bands also) and hangs them from her shower head. 

The final shot shows a nice looking steamy shower flow over the top of the hanging eucalyptus. 

The accompanying text on the video claims that the practice “helps relieve upper body respiratory issues”, adding: “The essential oils released with the steam from the shower will bring peace and relaxation.” 

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In a similar video, another creator claims that the practice “relieves congestion, reduces inflammation, helps you destress” - and “freshens your bathroom” to boot.

Viewers of the videos responded very enthusiastically to this natural home remedy. One user said, “An in home spa!”, while another shared, “I’ve been doing this for years! It’s so nice”.

The first creator responded to many of the comments sharing extra information. According to the Tiktoker baby eucalyptus can last up to 2-4 weeks. But she also warned pet owners that the plant can be toxic for animals so avoid pets entering your bathroom if you are trying out this remedy.

 Health benefits of eucalyptus :

A number of medical- based studies have discovered benefits of the essential oil found in eucalyptus. In a 2014 study, researchers found that patients who inhaled eucalyptus oil before undergoing surgery felt calmer.

The Advances in Therapy journal found that the compound - 1,8 cineole- contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which is thought to be helpful to those who suffer from respiratory disorders.

Meanwhile, another study suggests that the plant can reduce pain. Participants who had experienced knee-surgery felt reduced pain after inhaling eucalyptus for 30 minutes.

There’s also reason to believe the Tiktokers’ claims relating to congestion. According to Medical News Today, the leaves of the plant can help various head cold symptoms when gargled with. They also state that eucalyptus oil vapor can be a good natural decongestant when inhaled.  

On the back of the Tiktok trend, bathrooms expert at Drench, Dominic Lees-Bell, recommends four other plants that work in 'bath bouquets' and offer health benefits. 

• Rosemary - an essential oil that can help to relieve fatigue and promote greater brain function. It can also be healthy for your hair as it is supposed to stimulate the roots, improve hair growth, and increase circulation in the scalp.
• Peppermint - this essential oil also contains anti-inflammatory properties. When diffused it can be good for boosting energy while reducing feelings of anxiety, frustration or any tension. It also contains menthol which is great for clearing the respiratory tract or soothing a sore throat.
• Lavender - while this essential oil can also be good for your hair it is apparently good to use as a natural remedy for insomnia. Showering in a lavender infused shower could make for a restful sleep.
• Lemongrass - if you suffer from digestive problems such as stomach ache or gastric ulcers then lemongrass could help this. In a 2012 study conducted on mice, the researchers found lemongrass essential oil helped prevent gastric ulcers. A second study revealed that it could also help with slow diarrhoea.