ESSENTIAL OIL PROFILE: EUCALYPTUS

There are around 700 different species of eucalyptus, at least 500 of which produce a type of essential oil. Eucalyptus belongs to the Myrtaceae plant family. The most commonly used species of eucalyptus oil in aromatherapy is blue gum eucalyptus, produced from the leaves of theEucalyptus globulus tree. It is also known as gum tree, southern blue gum, Tasmanian blue gum, fever tree and stringy bark. Eucalyptus is native to Tasmania and Australia; however, most of the essential oil now comes from Portugual, Spain, China, Russia and California. Eucalyptus essential oil is extracted by steam distillation.

Characteristics

Eucalyptus essential oil is a colourless mobile liquid with a slightly harsh, camphoraceous odour and a woody, sweet undertone. It has a top note and blends well with rosemary, thyme, pine, cedarwood, lavender, marjoram and lemon.

Chemical Constituents

The main chemical constituents found in eucalyptus essential oil are:

• cineol – an oxide that has expectorant properties
• pinene – a terpene that has rubefacient properties
• limonene – a terpene that contributes to eucalyptus oil’s characteristic aroma.

Safety Considerations

Eucalyptus essential oil is generally non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitising. Like any other essential oil, it should not be taken internally as this could result in poisoning or liver damage, and may also be fatal. Eucalyptus may interfere with the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.

Historical and Traditional Uses

Eucalyptus is a traditional household remedy in Australia and is especially used for respiratory complaints. During World War One, eucalyptus oil was in great demand as it was used to help control outbreaks of meningitis and influenza. Today it is used in cough syrups, ointments, dental products, inhalants, soaps, detergents and toiletries.

Therapeutic Actions

The therapeutic properties of eucalyptus essential oil include:

• analgesic
• antirheumatic
• antiseptic
• antispasmodic
• antiviral
• cicatrisant
• decongestant
• deodorant
• diuretic
• expectorant
• rubefacient
• stimulant.

Aromatherapy Use

Skin Care:

• burns – compress
• blisters – skin oil, compress or bath
• cuts – skin oil or compress
• insect bites – skin oil
• insect repellent – skin oil or vaporisation
• lice – oil or hair care product
• wounds – skin oil, compress or bath.

Circulation, Muscles and Joints:

• muscular aches and pains – massage, compress or bath
• poor circulation – massage or bath
• rheumatoid arthritis – massage, compress, bath, skin oil or cream
• sprains – compress.

Respiratory System:

• asthma – massage, vaporisation or inhalation
• bronchitis – massage, vaporisation or inhalation
• catarrh – massage, vaporisation or inhalation
• coughs – massage, vaporisation or inhalation
• sinusitis – inhalation.

Genito-Urinary System:

• cystitis – compress or bath.

Immune System:

• allergic rhinitis – massage, vaporisation or inhalation
• colds and flu – massage, bath, vaporisation or inhalation.

Nervous System:

• debility – massage, vaporisation or bath
• headaches – massage, compress or vaporisation
• neuralgia – massage or bath.

Emotional and Spiritual Connection

Eucalyptus is associated with the colour blue and the throat chakra. It is recommended for those seeking new horizons. Where there has been conflict or a presence of negative energy, eucalyptus may be used at a subtle level to cleanse. Its aroma helps to dispel sadness, revive the spirits and promote a positive outlook. Eucalyptus is regarded as a tonic for the vital energy of the lungs and gives room to breathe, both literally and figuratively.