There’s nothing like a refreshing shower to melt away the stress of the day and give you that satisfying ahh moment. Now imagine stepping into that same shower, but with the fresh, invigorating scent of eucalyptus swirling around you. Suddenly, it’s not just a shower—it’s almost like a spa retreat in your own bathroom.
I like to think of it as natures way of sending you a little love note—a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and indulge in a moment of pure self-care and uninterrupted bliss.
Sounds dreamy, right? And the best part? Hanging eucalyptus in the shower doesn’t just make it smell amazing—it comes with some serious health perks too!
What is Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus is a type of evergreen tree native to Australia, and has been celebrated for centuries—and for good reason! With its distinctive branches and round, aromatic leaves, this natural plant packs a punch when it comes to healing. Thanks to its impressive anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, eucalyptus truly earns its reputation as a little gift from nature that goes above and beyond.
Why hang eucalyptus in the shower?
I’m a big believer in the incredible benefits plants can bring to our health, and eucalyptus is no exception!
Hanging eucalyptus in your shower isn’t just about adding a touch of natural beauty to your bathroom (though it does look amazing). When the steam from your shower meets the eucalyptus leaves, it releases soothing oil molecules into the air.
Inhaling that earthy, refreshing fragrance does more than just smell good—it helps you unwind, promoting relaxation while offering a range of healing benefits for both your mind and body.
The incredible health benefits of eucalyptus
Eucalyptus isn’t just a pretty plant to hang in your shower—it’s a multitasking wellness powerhouse. Thanks to its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties, eucalyptus is anti everything you don’t want! Whether you’re looking to breathe easier, feel calmer, or get a little mental boost, this natural remedy has your back. Here’s why eucalyptus deserves a spot in your self-care routine:
1 | Decongestion
Feeling stuffy or battling seasonal allergies? The natural oils in eucalyptus are like a tiny, botanical Vicks VapoRub. Just 10 minutes in a eucalyptus-infused steam shower is enough to loosen mucus, clear your sinuses, relieve congestion, and help treat colds and flus making breathing feel oh so good!
2 | Stress relief
We’ve all had those mornings where everything feels overwhelming (like the toaster burning your bagels on a Monday!) Eucalyptus is known for its calming properties, helping reduce stress and anxiety to get you in a more zen state of mind.
3 | Air purification
Eucalyptus isn’t just about smelling good—it’s also known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. While it won’t replace a good cleaning routine (sorry, mildew), it can help keep your bathroom feeling fresher for longer.
4 | Great for pain relief
Believe it or not, eucalyptus is a natural pain reliever. In fact, studies have shown that inhaling eucalyptus oil can help reduce feelings of pain, even for patients recovering from surgery. For localized relief, try rubbing diluted eucalyptus oil onto pressure points or sore muscles—it’s instant, plant-powered comfort.
5 | Boosts clarity and focus
Say goodbye to groggy mornings and mental fog! Eucalyptus increases oxygen flow, which stimulates the brain, soothes the nervous system, and promotes mental clarity. It’s like a reset button for your mind and body, leaving you feeling refreshed, focused, and ready to conquer the day.
How to hang eucalyptus in the shower
There’s a lot of DIY projects out there that can turn into a stress-fest! But hanging eucalyptus in your shower is not one of them—It’s ridiculously simple! Here’s how to do it:
1 | Get the right eucalyptus
Look for fresh eucalyptus stems—silver dollar eucalyptus is a popular choice because it’s sturdy and smells amazing. You can find it at florists, farmer’s markets, or even some grocery stores.
2 | Prep your bundle
Trim the stems so they’re about 12-18 inches long, and remove any leaves near the bottom. Tie them together with natural twine or rubber bands, leaving enough room at the top to hang the bundle easily. If needed, roll a rolling pin over your bundle to release its scent. Pro tip: add a sprig of lavender or rosemary for a next-level aroma blend!
3 | Find the sweet spot
Hang the eucalyptus on your showerhead—but make sure it’s behind the water stream, not directly under it. The steam, not the water, is what activates the oils. Plus, soaking it will shorten its lifespan and turn your shower into a soggy mess.
Frequently asked questions
How long does eucalyptus last in the shower?
Fresh eucalyptus bundles can last 2-5 weeks in your shower, depending on the room’s humidity. Keep an eye out for signs like fading scent or browning leaves—when that happens, it’s time for a fresh batch! To extend its life, try placing the stems in water and trimming them to help with absorption. Just avoid soaking the entire bundle, as that can make it lose its fragrance faster.
Is eucalyptus safe?
If you have sensitive skin, asthma, or pets, check with your doctor or vet before introducing eucalyptus to your home. While it’s generally safe, some people and animals can have reactions to its potent oils. Better safe than sneezy right?!
Can I hang eucalyptus sachets instead?
Absolutely! If a eucalyptus bundle isn’t your thing, or you want to mix it up, eucalyptus sachets with lavender are a great alternative. They combine the invigorating scent of eucalyptus with the calming, floral aroma of lavender for a spa-like experience that’s both soothing and refreshing.
Hang the sachet in your shower, and just like with fresh eucalyptus, the steam will release the fragrant oils into the air. It’s an easy, mess-free way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy—and your bathroom will smell heavenly!
Where can I find fresh eucalyptus?
As mentioned you can find eucalyptus and everything you need at a florist, farmer’s market, local grocery store or online. Here are my top picks:
- Eucalyptus bouquet
- Eucalyptus sachets
- Dried lavender leaves
- Eucalyptus lavender pouches
- Empty drawstring sachets
Final thoughts
Hanging eucalyptus in the shower is one of those small, inexpensive life hacks that feels wildly luxurious. Whether you’re looking for a way to elevate your morning routine, clear your sinuses, or just feel like the main character in a wellness documentary, it’s definitely worth giving it a try!
