The Benefits of Hanging Eucalyptus in Your Shower—and How to Make a Fragrant, Mood-Boosting Bundle

Eucalyptus makes a beautiful addition to floral arrangements and works as a stand-alone plant, too, thanks to its striking blue-green, coin-shaped leaves. But the greenery is more than just a decorative piece: The fragrant scent that fresh eucalyptus gives off has aromatherapeutic properties that make it as beneficial as it is eye-catching. This is especially true when you hang a fresh bunch of eucalyptus in the shower.

Health Benefits of Eucalyptus

Studies have associated the inhalation of eucalyptus with reduced stress, decreased pain, lowered blood pressure, and relief from respiratory and sinus issues. The fresh, sharp scent also helps clear sinuses and perk up your brain.

Reduces Inflammation

One of the biggest claims about eucalyptus is that it reduces inflammation. "Eucalyptus oil itself, through inhalation and aromatherapy, helps to increase the antioxidant capacity and decrease inflammatory reactions within the tissues," says Devin Miles, N.D. "When you inhale eucalyptus into the respiratory passages, that helps to reduce inflammation and promote drainage of congested sinuses."

Promotes Mental Clarity

If you often feel fatigued, eucalyptus is also effective at boosting energy levels—it helps promote mental clarity, alertness, and is stimulating. "When it comes to hanging fresh eucalyptus in the shower, the plant itself has that oil in it, so it may not be as strong. But with fresh eucalyptus leaves you would still get a really nice effect," says Dr. Miles.

Why You Should Hang Eucalyptus in the Shower

While you can experience the plant's aromatherapeutic properties from inhaling the scent of the dried leaves or essential oil, it's also beneficial to hang the plant in the shower. The close proximity and added heat and moisture of the shower increase the accessibility of eucalyptus' health benefits. "The steam helps loosen up the eucalyptus oil molecules into the air, making it easier to breathe in," says Amy Rothenberg, N.D. "Usually five or 10 minutes exposure is plenty, though some people tolerate much longer periods of time."

How to Make a Eucalyptus Shower Bundle

Though native to Australia, eucalyptus is now grown all over the world—making it possible to find fresh branches at grocery stores, florists, and online. "You want fresh, green sprigs that are aromatic, meaning you can smell the eucalyptus easily," Dr. Rothenberg says.

1. Buy a bouquet or individual branches of eucalyptus.
2. Go over the leaves with a rolling pin to release the aromas.
3. Collect the branches into a bunch using twine or a rubber band.
4. Drape it over your shower head or on a hook inside the shower enclosure.

How Long Eucalyptus Lasts in the Shower

A bunch of fresh eucalyptus should stay fresh in your shower for two to three weeks—depending on the moisture in the room. Keep a close eye on it, though. "If you use fresh eucalyptus, you'll want to swap out for a fresh batch when you start to see mold, browning, and when it's lost its appealing aroma," says Dr. Rothenberg.