Hanging Eucalyptus in the Shower

The last post about fragrant bathroom plants got me thinking about a common practice of hanging eucalyptus in the shower. Eucalyptus is a group of plants from Australia that have a wonderfully refreshing menthol fragrance. There are over 500 species of eucalyptus — most are trees but some are more like shrubs. Their dark green leaves are so pretty that they are often used for decorations in weddings. Want this plant growing in your home? See our previous post.

Now, back to hanging this beautiful and scented plant in the shower. There are some questions that arise. How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? What are the benefits? Are there any downsides? How do you DIY eucalyptus in the shower? This article will answer all of these questions for you.

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Benefits of Hanging Eucalyptus in the Shower

According to this prevention.com article there are more than a few benefits to hanging eucalyptus, with its relaxing fragrance, in a steaming hot shower. Here they are and more:

• Steam of the shower releases the essential oils of the eucalyptus
• Relieves upper respiratory issues — bye bye cough!
• Gets rid of nasal congestion — no more sniffles!
• Alleviates sinus issues — see ya later awful sinus headaches!
• Helps with inflammation in bronchial infections and sinus problems
• Helps relax you
• Seeing green in the shower can help with mental health
• The scent has a calming effect
• It replaces any bad bathroom smells with good ones
• The branches add a touch of style and beauty to your shower

Cons to Having Eucalyptus in the Shower

Sounds like a miracle idea? Can it be? Well, nothing’s perfect. Here are the downsides:

• If you are sensitive to smells, this may not be for you
• It’s expensive — fresh eucalyptus is not cheap
• Only lasts for a little while

So, How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower?

That last con brings us to our next question. If you are going to be spending some of your hard-earned money on eucalyptus leaves, how long do they really last? What are you getting for your money? How often are you expected to trek down to your nearest florist and buy more? These are reasonable questions. The answer is, of course, it depends on your showering habits. In general, you can safely expect the leaves to last about a month. They can last up to two months, though.

Step-By-Step Guide to DIY Hanging Eucalyptus in the Shower

1. Buy fresh eucalyptus branches. Buy it here on Amazon.
2. Clip the eucalyptus branches to the length you want to hang — you will need about seven to ten branches.
3. Remove leaves from the last six inches of the branches, leaving only the stems.
4. Gather all the branches together with stems together and then arrange how you want it to look.
5. Tie branches together at the stems with a strong string or twine, about six inches from the bottom.
6. Tie the bundle to the shower head as close to the wall as you can get — ensure the eucalyptus will not get in the way of your shower stream. You want it behind the stream.
7. Take some hot steamy showers — shake off excess water from leaves after every shower to prevent rotting

So, now you are ready to hang eucalyptus in your shower!