![\"\"](\"https://www.daughterofstorms.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/eucalyptus-oil.jpg\")
The potent medical properties of Eucalyptus have been used for centuries by Australian Aborigines. Now the antiseptic properties of Eucalyptus are valued all over the world.
Eucalyptus oil is distilled from the partially dried leaves and twigs of the \”blue gum\” Eucalyptus tree. The oil has a pungent camphorous scent and blends well with other tree oils such as Pine and Cedarwood. It is also commonly blended with other antiseptic oils, particularly Lemon and Thyme.
Eucalyptus\’ warming and drying properties are effective in treating all respiratory disorders. It has a decongestive action that is especially effective as a steam inhalation. It fights infection, reduces fevers, soothes inflammation of the respiratory tract. It also combats fatigue by stimulating the nervous system combating tiredness and promoting concentration.
Active ingredients of Eucalyptus Oil
There are over 500 varieties of Eucalyptus that bear essential oils. These all have different chemical compositions. The most commonly used is \\\”blue gum\\\” Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus.)
Oxides
Eucalyptus, also know as Cinerol, is a potent oxide that stimulates the respiratory and digestive system. It is responsible for the oil\\\’s camphorous scent which has expectorant properties.
Monoterpenes
Eucalyptus contains limonene which is an antiviral and pinene which means it is antiseptic.
Alcohols
The alcohol citronellol is present in Eucalyptus oil in small quantities. Citronellol has a warming and uplifting effect along with being an antiseptic.
The Folklore of Eucalyptus
- Eucalyptus is popular among the Aborigines who burn the leaves to relieve a fever believing the illness will leave the person and go into the smoke. The dried leaves are also smoked to relieve asthma and other respiratory conditions.
- In Victorian England, dried leaves were put in sachets to keep cupboards and closet fragrant and as an insect repellent.
- Eucalyptus leaves are the only food eaten by Koalas. People used to believe that alcohol contained in the leaves of the Eucalyptus made the Koalas permanently drunk, giving rise to their lazy behaviour.
