Eucalyptus oil

Technical Data Sheets :

Botanical Name: Eucalyptus globulus

Common Method of Extraction: Steam distillation

Parts Used: The twigs and leaves of the eucalyptus plant is used for the production of eucalyptus oil.

Note Classification: Top

Aroma: The aroma of eucalyptus oil is very fresh. It is a well known aroma as this oil is used by most people all over the world. It has a penetrating woody smell. But the most prominent odour is camphoraceous

Largest Producing Countries: Eucalyptus oil is produced in many countries but the largest producing countries are China, Spain, Brazil, Chile, Swaziland, South Africa and Australia.

Traditional Use: Eucalyptus gets its name from a Greek word which meant “well covered”.  It is the calyx that covers the flower well and this name from that connotation. It is the most ancient native medicine of Australia. It was used as rubs, inhalants, as cleaners and disinfectants. David Nelson on one of the expedition brought this species to be placed in the British Museum in London.

Properties:

Eucalyptus oil is a colourless liquid which becomes yellow with age. The most important constituent is cineole. The strength of the oil is dependent on this constituent. Its properties are anti-rheumatic, anti-aging, anti-fungal, anti-viral, antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic. It is used as deodorant, in insecticides, in expectorant and as a decongestant. It is stimulating and used as vermifuge and as febrifuge. Due to these properties it is used for various purposes. It is used in medicines, as anti-septics, in biopesticides and in insect repellents. It is used in flavouring food and is also used for industrial purposes. Because of its woody and penetrating smell it is used in fragrances. When eucalyptus oil is inhaled it is said to be effective for cold, coughs and a more severe lung disorder, bronchitis. It is used in soaps, detergents and sometimes in perfumes. As a flavouring agent it is used in baked products.

Blends Well With: Eucalyptus oil blends well with helichrysum, lavender and copaiba oils. It also combines moderately with geranium, marjoram, cedar wood, thyme, peppermint, rosemary, cypress, ginger, juniper, lemon, grapefruit, chamomile and ginger.

Of Interest: Only to fight malaria eucalyptus trees were planted in North Africa. During World War II when Dr.Valnet ran out of medicines, antibiotic medicines, he used this oil as only that was available in plenty. He figured out that it was an excellent substitute. 2% percent of this solution, he discovered, was enough to kill 70% of an air borne bacteria, staphylococcus.

Safety Data: Eucalyptus oil is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) but not so much for internal consumption. It is used in dietary supplements in mild doses. It is never to be used without diluting. When applying on the skin it is always better to test over a small patch of skin and that too after diluting it. Sometimes it may cause skin irritation over prolonged use. Keep it away from children. Pregnant women are advised not to use it. It should not be taken with homeopathic medicines as it nullifies its effect.