Eucalyptus
Botanical name:
Eucalyptus Globulus
Eucalyptus Radiata
Origin:
Australia, Brazil, China, Corsica, Nepal, Madagascar, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, South Africa
Method of extraction:
Steam distillation
Color:
Clear
Viscosity:
Thin
Extracted from:
Leaves
Note clarification:
Top and middle
Aroma:
Camphor, medicinal, woody
Blends well with:
Cedarwood, chamomile, cypress, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, marjoram, peppermint, pine, rosemary, thyme
Therapeutic uses:
It’s great as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-septic topical treatment. It’s calming and works well as a respiratory decongestion aid. It’s also useful for relieving sinus pressure. As a topical treatment, it can stimulate circulation and ease arthritic and muscular pain.
In diluted form Eucalyptus essential oils are good to treat minor burns, cuts, and insect bites.
Safety:
Eucalyptus globulus
Avoid using during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Due to its high 1,8-cineole content, it is not safer for children under 10 years because it can cause breathing problems. Avoid using it around the face of infants and small children.
Avoid using it around pets.
Eucalyptus radiata
The 1,8-cineole content in Eucalyptus radiata is lower than in Eucalyptus globulus which makes it a safer oil to use around children and the elderly.
(Source - Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy page 543 - 544)
(Source - Tisserand and Young, Essential Oil Safety, Second edition page 272 - 276)
Approximate shelf life:
(Undiluted)
5 years (refrigerated)
Notes:
Eucalyptus globulus is also known as blue gum
Another species of eucalyptus called eucalyptus radiate is often used because it has a more subtle camphor aroma. It is not as potent and has a sweeter smell. It has the same benefits and pairs well with the same oils. Eucalyptus Radiata has a milder aroma.
Sources:
Please refer to the 'References and Certifications' page.
Disclaimer:
Do not use any essential oils or essential oil blends if you have any underlying health conditions. Some oils are not safe for children, pregnant women or pets. Always check with your doctor or certified aromatherapist, if you are unsure about the benefits or contra-indicators of a recipe or its ingredients. ‘A Scented Story’ is solely my platform to share my experiences with essential oils and other natural products. I do not prescribe any treatments.