Essential Oil Use in Saunas

I’ve been asked this question so many many times over the last 7 years. It’s often in conjunction with asking what oils are best for in the sauna, as I do love a great sauna!

The quality of the essential oil you use matters, just like anything else. It should be a pleasant experience and you shouldn’t experience any irritation in your throat, lungs, eyes or in breathing. With that said I’d like to go over the different kinds of eucalyptus that are very commonly used in saunas. 

First, less is more. If you are looking to use eucalyptus there are actually 4 different kinds.

The chemical component that contributes to many of the eucalyptus oils being harsh on the lungs is 1.8 - cineole the caution is for kids 5-10 years old and those with asthma or other lung sensitivity.  1.8 -cineole is why these oils are so powerful in aiding the respiratory system for those who don’t have lung sensitivities. 

To be clear, 1.8-cineole gets affected by air, meaning when air comes in contact with the essential oil (removing the cap from the bottle) it will oxidize and this changes the chemical makeup of the essential oil. 

How to tell which eucalyptus is which. The latin name is shown on the bottle. It is in italics with the word eucalyptus. Followed by:

• Eucalyptus (Globulus) is considered “authentic” and is traditionally used the most.

• Eucalyptus (Radiata) has a camphor aroma to it.

• Eucalyptus (Ciriodora) hints of lemon, rose, and camphor. If exposed to the skin it may irritate it due to the citronella if allergic. 

• Eucalyptus (Dives) Has a peppermint aroma to it, it has less 1.8 - cineole so much so that the data expresses more on the safe side for all.

An alternative to eucalyptus is Ravintsara which comes from evergreen trees. It also has 1.8 - cineole and can smell a little like those listed above, you may still want to use caution as each person’s experience is different.

It’s best to keep essential oil bottles in a cool dark place to prolong its shelf life. 

Plants are so very powerful when used wisely and respectfully.