Probably one of the bestselling essential oils in the world and a must-have for every medicine cabinet. Popularly used in steam applications for its ability to expand the lungs, reduce congestion, and ease sinuses, and it is also a marvellous wound healer.

Eucalyptus oils history.

Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia and are commonly associated with koala bears, that survive on a diet of eucalyptus leaves.  This oil has been touted as the “cure-all” medicine by the native indigenous population of Australia and the eucalyptus tree was harvested and adapted for many uses, with over 700 varieties of eucalyptus existing. Many of these have been used for a variety of arts & crafts, fuel usage, paper making and fighting malaria. In the mid 19th century, Baron Ferdinand von Muller discovered the first major use of eucalyptus was as an antiseptic and succeeded in introducing it into the south of Europe, North & South Africa, California and the extratropical portions of South America. In 1955 the French government sent the seeds to Algeria to convert swamps riddled with malaria into dry healthy soil. During World War 1 the oil was very popular when it suppressed an outbreak of meningitis during the influenza epidemic in 1919.

Uses of Eucalyptus oil.

• Relieves colds, coughs & sinus problems – As a powerful decongestant and anti-inflammatory, eucalyptus loosens phlegm, clears congestion thus reducing sinus pressure making for easier breathing. Add 1 or 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head, breathe deeply for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Ease sore muscles and joint pain  – Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in muscle & joint pain remedies and is very effective is reducing swelling and inflammation and chronic pain that’s caused by arthritis, injuries to joints & backache. Add a few drops of eucalyptus to a carrier oil such as olive or almond and rub the affected area in a circular movement.
• Relieves headaches & sinus migraines –  Commonly used to relieve congested sinuses, massaging diluted eucalyptus onto the temples can help clear sinus migraines and headaches.
• Wound healing – This natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic oil, eucalyptus is perfect for wounds, burns, sunburn, cuts & scrapes by eliminating harmful germs this helps reduce pain and promotes healing. Simply add 10 drops of eucalyptus oil to 2 cups water in a spray bottle and spray the wound twice daily & cleaning with a dry cloth.
• Pest & insect repellent – Mice and rats hate eucalyptus and can even chase away mozzies, flies, bed bugs, cockroaches and moths. Add 50 drops of eucalyptus oil to ½ cup of water in a spray bottle and spray around targeted areas.
• Hair care – fights dandruff and lice due to its anti-fungal properties. Mix 2-4 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1-2 tablespoons coconut oil, rub into the scalp and rinse after 20 minutes.

Eucalyptus oil is best known for…

• Decongestant, sinuses, coughs & bronchitis
• Ear nose & throat infections
• Fights infections & reduces fever
• Muscle & joint ailments-rheumatism arthritis
• Boosts immune system
• Wound cleansing

EUCALYPTUS OIL

Botanical name: Eucalyptus globulus

Origin: Native to Tasmania and Australia. Mainly cultivated in Spain and Portugal, South Africa China and Russia.

Aroma characteristics: Menthol, sharp, piercing and penetrating aroma with a woody undertone.

Therapeutic properties

• analgesic  • anti-rheumatic  • antiseptic  • antiviral  • bactericidal  • decongestant  • depurative  • diuretic

• expectorant  • febrifuge  • rubefacient  • stimulant  • vulnerary

Therapeutic uses

• Circulatory system - poor circulation
• Immune system - coughs, flu
• Musculo-skeletal system - aches and pains, joint pain
• Nervous system - debility, headaches
• Respiratory system - asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, congestion in the head, sinusitis, sore throat
• Skin care - healing to the skin
• Urinary system - cystitis

All the essential oils highlighted in this column are available at The Emporium of the Enchanted Forest (inside the VaVa Yoga Studio), and you can explore our Apothecary and discuss any questions you may have with me, Ashlí.

Eucalyptus

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