Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus Oil: Australia's Marvelous Medicine

by Venus Enock

The Eucalyptus globulus is a tree native to mainland Australia and Tasmania. There are around 300 species in the genus, making it one of the most distinguishing genera of the Australian flora.

The Tree

Leaves of the eucalyptus are leathery to the touch, and hang obliquely or vertically from the stem of the plant. The leaves feature glands that secrete fragrant volatile oils. These oils are used for various medicinal purposes.

The blossoms of the eucalyptus are covered in a cup-like membrane when in bud. In fact, the plant's name can be translated to "well-covered." When the flower expands and is fully in bloom, the bud membranes are discarded, like a lid. Eucalyptus fruits are encompassed by woody, cup-shaped receptacles that contain many tiny seeds.

Eucalyptus is a rapidly-growing tree. Many species can grow to a towering 480 feet, surpassing the height of even the California giant sequoia. While the eucalyptus provides timber, it is more valued for the medicinal oils. There are three main classifications of oils derived from eucalyptus leaves, including aromatic oils, medicinal oils and industrial oils. Each type of oil holds unique commercial significance.

Eucalyptus Oil

A process called aqueous distillation is used to remove the oil from the eucalyptus leaves. The oil is colorless or straw-colored and has a characteristic aroma and taste. Eucalyptus oil is soluble when mixed with equal parts alcohol. Considered to be among the most powerful antiseptics of its class, eucalyptus oil has a powerful disinfectant action. The oil becomes most potent when it has aged, and it can actually destroy lower life forms.

Eucalyptol is the most important component of eucalyptus oil. The various species of eucalyptus globulus are comprised of up to 70 percent eucalyptol, making it a capable disinfectant.

Eucalyptus oil acts as a typical volatile oil to a remarkable degree when taken internally. As a stimulant, it's sometimes used as an antiseptic gargle. Locally applied, eucalyptus oil can increase cardiac action and diminish sensibility. Eucalyptus has some antiseptic properties that may have some response against malaria, although it is not as powerful as cinchona, a more traditional anti-malarial remedy.

Two of the significant effects of eucalyptus are its role in balancing and stimulation. Its middle note aroma, suggestive of camphorous or woody scents makes it an important ingredient in aroma therapy and as a nasal inhalant. Eucalyptus has several medicinal properties, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, and stimulant.

In the home, eucalyptus can be put to use as an air disinfectant and a decongestant. It is used to treat respiratory difficulties including asthma and bronchitis. Eucalyptus can be used to treat burns, cuts, influenza, and headaches. The potent aroma of eucalyptus acts as a powerful insect repellent. Among its many other uses, it can be used to treat wounds, muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers and urinary infections.

Taking Eucalyptus Steam Inhalations

Steam inhalations can be very beneficial as they all hot, moist air to enter the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is a natural choice for steam inhalations, as it is widely regarded for its decongestant properties. Using the oil as a steam inhalation can help to unblock sinuses and nasal passages.

Prepare a eucalyptus steam inhalation by gathering the following materials: a kettle with boiling water, eucalyptus oil, a sheet or large towel and a sizable bowl or container.

With the materials at hand, pour about four to six cups of boiling water from the kettle to the bowl. Add three drops of eucalyptus oil to the boiling water. Place your head over the bowl with your eyes looking downward. Use the sheet or towel as a "tent" to enclose your face and head over the bowl. With eyes closes, inhale deeply and breathe slowly. Continue for about 15 minutes, or until the nasal passages are cleared.

Writer Venus Enock loves writing for a variety of popular web sites, on alternative health care and natural health products issues.
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