Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus

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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 Eucalyptus Tree

The eucalyptus tree has leaves that hang obliquely or vertically from its stem and are leathery to the touch. Glands within the leaves secrete a fragrant, volatile oil used for many medicinal purposes.

When in bud, eucalyptus blossoms are covered in a cup-like membrane, hence the name which translates to “well-covered.” In full bloom, the flower full expands and the “lid” of the membrane falls off. The eucalyptus fruit is held in a cup-shaped, woody receptacle that also contains 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.

Therapeutic Oils

The valuable oils found in eucalyptus are taken from the leaves by a process called aqueous distillation. Eucalyptus oil can be colorless or straw-colored, has a unique odor and flavor, and is soluble in its own weight of alcohol. It is likely the most powerful antiseptic of its class, and has an important disinfectant action. Eucalyptus oil becomes more potent with age, and can be used to destroy lower forms of life.

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.

Eucalyptus can be put to use as an air disinfectant and a decongestant. It is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, treat burns, cuts, influenza, and headaches. The powerful aroma of eucalyptus acts as an effective insect repellant. It may also treat muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers, urinary infections, and wounds.

Taking Eucalyptus Steam Inhalations

Steam inhalation permits hot, moist air to enter the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is widely regarded for its decongestant properties. By using the oil as a steam inhalation, your nasal passages and sinuses can be unblocked.

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.

Once you have all the necessary materials, carefully pour about four to six cups of boiling water from the kettle into the large bowl. Then, mix in three drops of oil. Place your head over the bowl, eyes looking down on it. Next, shield your face with the sheet or towel. Close your eyes and inhale slowly and deeply. Continue breathing deeply for about 15 minutes until your nasal passages are cleared.

Writer Venus Enock writes regularly for several well-known Internet magazines, on alternative health care and natural health products issues.

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Article Citation
MLA Style Citation:
Enock, Venus "Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus." Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus. 29 Dec. 2009. . 9 Feb 2012 </health-and-fitness/diseases-and-conditions/medicinal-properties-of-eucalyptus/>.

APA Style Citation:
Enock, V (2009, December 29). Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus. Retrieved February 9, 2012, from /health-and-fitness/diseases-and-conditions/medicinal-properties-of-eucalyptus/

Chicago Style Citation:
Enock, Venus "Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus" . /health-and-fitness/diseases-and-conditions/medicinal-properties-of-eucalyptus/

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