Eucalyptus

Over 600 species of evergreen, aromatic tress and shrubs belong to this genus, which occurs mainly in Australia. They are among the world's fastest-growing and tallest trees, recorded at 99m (326ft). Many species are grown for lumber and as ornamentals for their handsome foliage and patterned bark. Gum trees are rich in volatile oils, with over 40 different kinds recorded. The most common oils are : cineole (eucalyptol) with the typical eucalyptus scent; citronella (lemon-scented); piperitone (peppermint-scented); and pinene, with a turpentine-like odor. Eucalyptus also exude and oleo-resin, known as kino, containing tannins. Australian Aboriginals use eucalyptus bark, kino, and leaves in remedies. Bark decoctions are used to bathe sores and treat dysentery, and bark charcoal is considered antiseptic; water solutions of kino (e.g. of Eucalyptus gummifera) are used against dysentery and bladder inflammations. People in the north preferred Melaleuca species (See tea tree), since northern eucalypts have relatively low oil contents. In addition to those described below, E.polybractea,, E. radiata var australiana, and E. smithii are distilled for eucalyptus oil; others, such as E. gummifera, E. haemastoma, and E. racemosa are sources of kino; the rutin contained in E. macrorhyncha is used to strengthen capillaries. Only two species yield perfumery oils: E. citriodora is the richest known source of citronellal; and E. macarthurii is a source of geranyl acetate and eudesmol, used in perfumery. The leaves of several species, including E. mannifera and E. viminalis, exude a sweet substance when damaged by insects. This "manna" has a mild laxative effect, as found in the exudate from Fraxinus ornus (See, manna ash). Commercial production of eucalyptus oils began in 1852 in Dandenong, Victoria, Australia, pioneered by Joseph Bosisto, and emigrant from Yorkshire, England. Production of oils from blue mallee (E. polybractea) has now increased, as this species has proved more adaptable than E. dives to coppice (cutback) cultivation and mechanized harvesting. In common with all volatile oils, eucalyptus oils are toxic, requiring caution in handling, storage, and use. Oil derived from E. smithii may be less irritant to the skin and is often preferred by aromatherapists.Some species of eucalyptus grow up to 135m and are among the tallest trees in the world. The trees are also deeply rooted and grow incredibly fast, forming a fairly strong wood that is resistant to rot. Some species of eucalyptus yield a gum.

A favorite meal of koala bears, the leaves of the eucalyptus tree contain a pungent oil that can clear a cold-stuffed head with just a whiff or two. Eucalyptus oil is commonly found in steam-inhalation preparations for colds and flu and in chest rubs, snifters, and cough drops. It can also be rubbed on skin to ease the pain of arthritis and rheumatism.

Few trees in the world as are fast-growing and aromatic as the eucalyptus. Native to Australia and used by the Aborigines to reduce fevers, control coughs and relieve arthritis and skin sores, the eucalyptus made its first appearance in Europe in the nineteenth century. The tree is grown in the tropical and temperate regions of the world today. Eucalyptus is primarily valued for its leaves, which are used to make an oil, a tea and compresses. The oil distilled from the leaves can be applied topically in warming ointments and balms to help relieve respiratory infections or aching joints and stiffness. Eucalyptus tea works in much the same way, since the cineol found in the leaves and oil is both an expectorant and decongestant. Thus, the tea is effective in treating nasal stuffiness caused by cold or flu and bronchitis. While the tea is considered safe, dosages should always be carefully monitored.

Thanks to its essential oil, which contains up to 80 percent of eucalyptol, aucalyptus is antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and antispasmodic. Drinking the tea has been found beneficial for sore throats, colds and flu. Eucalyptus is warming as well, and when applied as a compress, is effective in treating aching muscles and stiff joints.

Your skin mirrors what's going on inside your body, reflecting the performance of such major organs as the kidneys and liver. Eucalyptus is among those herbs that detoxify and cleanse the kidneys and liver, helping these organs to function efficiently, which, in turn, benefits the skin. Drinking 3 cups of Eucalyptus tea a day can clear up acne and minor bacterial infections. Applied topically, the tea may produce healthier looking skin.

The tissue-constricting tannins in eucalyptus make it an effetive remedy for bleeding gums. Rinse with the tea two to three times daily.

The essential oil of eucalyptus is obtained from the leaves and branches of the eucalyptus tree Eucalyptus globulus. A steam distillation process is used to extract the oil from the tree parts, and some 110 pounds of plant material is required to produce about 2 pounds of eucalyptus oil. The medicinal properties of eucalyptus oil were most likely first discovered by the Aborigines, the native inhabitants of Australia (where the tree originated). They used the oil as a remedy for skin problems and fever; not surprisingly the eucalyptus tree has long been called the "fever tree". Modern herbalists rely on eucalyptus oil to treat these conditions, as well as colds and bothersome respiratory ailments. The oil is a fine decongestant and has strong germacidal and antibacterial effects.

The principal active ingredient in eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol, which has strong germicidal and disinfectant properties. It also functions as a diuretic, lowers blood sugar and helps relieve cough and fever. Eucalyptus oil is an effective analgesic and is often used in preparations designed to relieve muscle, nerve and joint pain. On a psychological level, it helps to combat exhaustion and dispels mental sluggishness.

Spreading tree with smooth, creamy white bark, peeling in red flakes, and ovate, often perfoliate, silver-blue juvenile leaves, becoming pendent, green and lanceolate to sickle-shaped, to 25cm (10in) long, in adult specimens. Solitary cream to white flowers appear from spring to summer.

Common Name:	Eucalyptus
Other Names:	Blue Gum, Fever Tree, Gum Tree, Tasmanian Blue Gum
Botanical Name:	Eucalyptus globulus
Genus:	Eucalyptus
Family:	Myrtaceae
Cultivation:	Fertile, well-drained neutral to acid soil in sun; E. camaldulensis thrives in moist to wet soil and shallow water. Young specimens make good container plants for cool areas but do not thrive long-term in pots. Eucalyptus citriodora and E. globulus may be grown as annuals for summer bedding or containers. Prone to silver leaf, edema, and psyllids.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring or summer 13-18°C (55-64%deg;F). Cut back in spring only to restrict size or to retain juvenile foliage.
Harvest:	Leaves are cut as required and dried for decoctions and infusions, or distilled for oil. Kino is collected from bark incisions and dried for use in lozenges, powders, and tinctures.
Native Location:	To moist valleys in uplands of New South Wales and Victoria Australia, Algeria, Southern China, Egypt, India, South Africa, Spain, California
Height:	15-45m (50-150ft)
Width:	10-25m (30-80ft)
Extraction:	Steam Distillation
Hardiness:	Z9-10
Parts Used:	Leaves, oil extracted from leaf and branch tips.
Properties:	An aromatic, stimulant, decongestant herb that is expectorant, relaxes spasms, and lowers fevers. It is effective against many bacteria, especially staphylococci Antiseptic, expectorant, slightly antispasmodic, mildly astringent, analgesic, rubefacient, bactericidal, antiviral.
Color and Odor:	The essential oil is colorless and has a distinct, crisp, camphoraceous odor that is penetrating and refreshing.
Planet:	Mercury
Background:	It was introduced to Europe and the rest of the world from Australia in 1857. The trees are usually planted in swampy areas to prevent the spread of malaria. However, when grown outside Australia it tends to secrete substances that inhibit the growth of surrounding plants.
Element:	Air
Magical Influences:	Health, Purification, Healing.
Uses:	Respiratory Sytem—An extremely effective remedy for reducing body temperature in all type of fever. Valuable as a decongestant for catarrh in most respiratory infections including colds, influenza, sinusitis, tuberculosis and throat infections, especially when there is a purulent mucus discharge. Provides good protection during epidemics. Eucalyptus is useful for hayfever. Nervous System—Analgesic in neuralgia and congestive headaches. Muscular Sytem—Good for general muscular aches and pains. Skeletal System—Beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis and helps to remove toxins in the joints. Skin—Good for skin eruptions, shingles, herpes, indolent wounds, ulcers and burns. Emotions—Clears the head of mental exhaustion and the inability to concentrate. Balances extremes of the mood. Eucalyptus cools heated emotions when people are engaged in any form of combat, be it verbal, emotional or physical. It's aroma creates a feeling of space.
Aromatherapy Applications:	For Mental Fatigue Eucalyptus essential oil stimulates the nervous system and promotes concentration. Combined with Lemon oil in diffuser, it is ideal to use when the psyche is affected by mental exhaustion and listlessness. 4 Drops Eucalyptus Oil 2 Drops Lemon Oil For a Sense of Well-Being: A few drops of a blend of eucalyptus and massage oil have a cooling and stimulating effect on both mind and body. Apply to pulse points. To Purify the Sickroom: Eucalyptus oil is the ideal essence to use in a sickbed environment. Five drops of the oil in a diffuser will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of bacteria. This will help keep germs from spreading. For Insect Repellant: Insects dislike the odor of eucalyptus oil.. To make an insect repellent, add a few drops of the oil to massage oil. Or place a few drops in a diffuser to keep the room pest-free. For Wounds and Abscesses: The strong germicidal effect of eucalyptus oil can help heal wounds, burns, ulcers and insect bites or stings. Place a few drops of the essential oil on a dressing or bandage before covering the area with it. To Suppress Coughs: Make a chest compress with eucalyptus and massage oils to loosen phlegm and improve lung function. For Scarlet Fever: A few drops of eucalyptus oil added to a diffuser can help relieve the flu-like symptoms of scarlet fever. To Improve the Sauna: To get the best detoxifying effects of a sauna, place 3 drops of the oil in a ladleful of water and pour it over the hot stones. To Lower Fevers: Lower a fever with a eucalyptus calf wrap. Add 5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to 1 qt. lukewarm water. Soak linen or cotton cloths in the mixture. Then, wrap the cloths around your calves and secure with dry cloths. Calf wraps should be used only when the feet are warm. To Rid Dandruff: Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil with your shampoo. Massage well into your scalp. Wait a few minutes before rinsing. To Alleviate Cold: Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief and deeply enhale the aroma. To Relieve Sinus and Chest Congestion: Combine 5 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 drop of Peppermint oil. Add crushed eucalyptus, Peppermint, Coltsfoot and Comfrey herbs. Place 1/2 oz. of mixture in a clean sock, knot the end and place inside your pillowcase overnight. For Muscles Aches and Pain: Mix 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil and 2 oz. of sweet almond or grapeseed oil. Massage into your muscles.
Uses and Blends:
Preparation of the Tea: To make the tea, pour 1 cup of water over upt to 1/2 tsp. of the dried leaves, which can be found at most health food stores. Cover and steep for 10 min.; then strain. Sweeten with honey, to taste. Drink 2-3 cups daily. Warning: In large doses, eucalyptus can cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Don't use more than 1/2 tsp. per cup of water. Steam Bath for Bronchitis: Bronchitis and sinus congestion can be eased by inhaling the steam from eucalyptus tea. Pour 1 qt. of boiling water over 1 tbsp. of dried eucalyptus leaves. Cover to seal in the volatile oil, and steep for 5 min. Drape a towel over your head and shoulders to form a tent over the tea. Close your eyes and, for 10 min. breathe in the steam. Use this facial steam daily until your symptoms abate. Warning: Do not leave young children unattended with the hot tea Compress for Inflammation: A traditional folk-medicine remedy, a eucalyptus compress is effective in treating painful joints, minor burns and sore muscles. The compress is particularly suitable for stiffness and swelling due to arthritis. Soak a clean cloth in the cooled tea, wring out and appley 2-3 times a day for relief. Gargle for Sore Throats: Make a cup of healing tea from equal parts of dried eucalyptus leaves and dried calendula flowers. The tannins in eucalyptus help reduce inflammation while the calendula soothes. Let the tea cool, then use it as a garlic 2-3 times a day until symptoms subside. For Asthma and Bronchitis: 1 1/2 oz. Dried Eucalyptus Leaves 1 oz. Dried Coltsfoot Leaves 1 oz. Dried Thyme Leaves. Make the tea to help open a tight respiratory tract and congested lungs. These herbs are known for their antispasmodic, and disinfectant properties. For Acne: 1 oz. Dried Eucalyptus Leaves 1 oz. Dried Dandelion Roots and Leaves Mixture. 3/4 oz. Dried Licorice Root 3/4 oz. Fennel Seeds. Make the tea. You can drink this tea as prescribed above, or use it as a facial wash. Either way, it is effective in healing such skin conditions as acne. For Head Colds: 1/2 oz. Dried Eucalyptus Leaves 1 oz. Dried Peppermint Leaves. 1/2 oz. Dried Chamomile Flowers. Use 1 tsp. of this herbal blend to make the tea. Sweeten with honey, to taste. These herbs are prescribed for their decongestant and expectorant effects. Eucalyptus is antiseptic, as well, and is very helpful for a head cold, sinus congestion and the flu. RESPIRATORY NERVOUS MUSCULAR Eucalyptus 7 Eucalyptus 7 Eucalytptus 6 Pine 3 Lavender 4 Chamomile (R) 5 Benzoin 3 Peppermint 2 Lavender 3 SKELETAL SKIN EMOTION Eucalyptus 7 Eucalyptus 5 Eucalyptus 5 Juniper 4 Lavender 4 Lemon 4 Rosemary 3 Tea Tree 3 Basil 3
Medicinal Uses:	Externally, in inhalations and vapor rubs, for mucus, bronchitis, sinusitis, colds, and influenza; in liniments for bruises, sprains, and muscular pains; in ointments, for wounds and abscesses. Excess causes headaches, convulsions, and delirium and may prove fatal. Eucalyptus leaf is used to treat asthma, fever, whooping cough, loss of appetite, diabetes, and fever. Eucalyptus oil is used to treat asthma, emphysema, cough, ulcers, wounds, burns, and rheumatism. Germany's Commission E has approved the use of eucalyptus leaf to treat coughs and bronchitis and eucalyptus oil to treat rheumatism, bronchitis, and cough.
Typical Dose:	The average daily dose of eucalyptus is 1.5 gm of the leaf taken several times a day. A typical internal dose of eucalyptus oil may range from 0.3 to 0.6 gm, while externally several drops of the essential oil may be rubbed onto the skin.
Possible Side Effects:	Eucalyptus's side effects include dizziness, seizures, nausea, loss of appetite, and confusion.
Warning:	Subject to legal restrictions some countries in the form of eucalyptus oil. Skin irritant. Too much eucalyptus oil can potentially irritate the skin, so be sure to use the exact amounts specified in the preparations listed here. Combining eucalyptus oil with massage oil reduces the chance of irritation. Keep eucalyptus oil away from children under age 6.
Drug Interactions:	Taking eucalyptus with these drugs may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Acarbose, (Prandase, Precose) Acetohexamide, (Acetohexamide) Chlorpropamide, (Diabinese, Novo-Propamide) Gliclazide, (Diamicron, Novo-Gliclazide) Glimepiride, (Amaryl) Glipizide, (Glucotrol) Glipizide and Metformin, (Metaglip) Gliquidone, (Beglynor, Glurenorm) Glyburide, (DiaBeta, Micronase) Glyburide and Metformin, (Glucovance) Insulin, (Humulin, Novolin R) Metformin, (Glucophage, Riomet) Miglitol, (Glyset) Nateglinide, (Starlix) Pioglitazone, (Actos) Repaglinide, (GlucoNorm, Prandin) Rosiglitazone, (Avandia) Rosiglitazone and Metformin, (Avandamet) Tolazamide, (Tolinase) Tolbutamide, (Apo-Tolbutamide, Tol-Tab) Taking eucalyptus with these drugs may reduce the effectiveness of the drug: Amobarbital, (Amytal) Amobarbital and Secobarbital, (Tuinal) Butabarbital, (Butisol Sodium) Butalbital, Acetaminophen, and Caffeine, (Esgic, Fioricet) Butalbital, Aspirin, and Caffeine, (Fiorinal) Mephobarbital, (Mebaral) Methohexital, (Brevital, Brevital Sodium) Pentobarbital, (Nembutal) Phenobarbital, (Luminal Sodium, PMS-Phenobarbital) Primidone, (Apo-Primidone, Mysoline) Secobarbital, (Seconal) Thiopental, (Pentothal)
Disease Effects:	May interfere with attempts to control blood sugar in diabetes. May worsen disease of the liver or gastrointestinal tract.
Supplement Interactions:	Increased risk of additive toxicity when eucalyptus oil is used with herbs and supplements containing unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids (UPAs), such as Butterbur, Comfrey, and Colt's Foot.
Economic Uses:	Used as a flavoring in pharmaceutical products and in spot removers for oil and grease. An important lumber species, used for the keels of ships in the 19th century. Widely planted to dry out swampy ground, notably in Italy and California.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 206-207 Aromatherapy Blends and recipes by Franzesca Watson Copyright © 1995 Thorsons, Harper Parker Publishing Inc. Pp 100-101 Magical Aromatherapy by Scott Cunningham Copyright © 1989 Llewellyn Publications, Inc. Pp 84 The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide by Geo. T. Grossberg,MD and Barry Fox,PhD Copyright©2007 Barry Fox,PhD. Pp.208-209 The Complete Guide to Natural Healing Copyright©1999 International Masters Publishers, AB Group 2 Card 27, Group 3 Card 8 Therapeutic Teas, Aromatherapy.