Eucalyptus is often used as a natural medicine for mild throat and respiratory problems. When used as a medicine, the leaves of the eucalyptus plant are boiled in plain water. The fumes of the boiling water can be inhaled to help ease respiratory problems, while sore throats can be treated by drinking the water in which the leaves are boiled. The process for boiling eucalyptus is the same, regardless of how you intend to take it.
Rinse the eucalyptus leaves under water to remove dirt and other debris.
Put the eucalyptus in a clean pot. Add water until it's about an inch above the eucalyptus.
Put a tight fitting lid on the pot. It's important that the lid is tight, as it will retain the vapors from the eucalyptus.
Put the pot on the stove at high heat. Let the water boil for 3 to 5 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat. If you want to inhale the vapors, this can be done immediately after you remove the pot from the heat. If you are going to drink it as a tea, wait for the water to cool down for 5 to 10 minutes.