This is a blue gum and is a very large evergreen tree that originates from Australia and Tasmania, but is now grown world-wide and mainly used for its essential oil. The leaves contain the oil and this is used in herbal medicine as well as being the main food that koala bears eat. There are over 700 species of eucalyptus of which 500 produce a type of essential oil.
Medicinal Properties of Eucalyptus
The Eucalyptus leaves contain around 70% to 85% of a volatile oil known as eucalyptol (cineol), as well as various flavanoid compounds. It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, expectorant, antispasmodic and acts powerfully on the mucous membranes of the nose reducing congestion. It is also said to reduce fever and keep insects away.
Eucalyptus Herbal Remedies
Historically Eucalyptus has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Bronchitis
Catarrh
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
Colds
Coughs
Emphysema
Fever
Genital herpes (topically)
Infections
Leg ulcers (topically as a cleanser)
Lumbago (topically)
Pyorrhoea and bleeding gums
Rheumatism (topically)
Rheumatoid arthritis (topically)
Sinusitis
Sinus congestion
Sore throat
Tension headaches (topically at the temples and forehead)
Whooping cough
Other Eucalyptus Information
The leaves can be infused and made into a herbal tea and taken up to three times per day (three to four leaves is an adequate dose). As an oil it can be used by adding to water and no more than 0.2ml of oil should be consumed per day. The aromatherapy oil is very popular for inhalation and topically as a massage oil to relieve aches and pains, or as an insect repellent.
Side Effects of Eucalyptus
The oil is toxic at certain levels when taken internally, and as little as 3.5ml has been reported to be fatal.
Even at safe levels (0.2ml max) some sensitive people may experience diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.
Internal use should be avoided by people with low blood pressure, or liver, kidney or inflammatory bowel disease.
Internal use should obviously be with extreme care and avoided totally with children.
The safety of eucalyptus during pregnancy and lactation has not been sufficiently studies, so it is best avoided.
Some herbalists consider the herb goldenseal to have negative interactions with the herb.
Inhalations of eucalyptus should be avoided by children under two years of age due to potential allergic reactions on the respiratory tract. For this reason people with asthma should avoid it.
This is obviously a popular herb but you should consult a herbalist or physician when considering internal use.
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