Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of the Eucalyptus tree. This tree is native to Australia. Eucalyptus tree is a member of the Myrtaceae plant family. The quick demand for this tree made it spread widely across Europe, the Mediterranean regions, South Africa, North Africa, China, California, India, subtropical areas and the United States of America. It is cultivated in many parts of the world. This tree has numerous species of 500 and above. Few of it even reach a maximum height of 250 feet and above. Eucalyptus tree has a bluish white bark which peels off easily. The leaves of this tree are long and spindle-shaped. All the leaves do not appear in similar shape. The young tender leaves are often heart-shaped and covered with a white waxy bloom coat. These bluish-green colored leaves grow in opposite venation. The fully mature Eucalyptus leaves have a smooth texture and a pungent aroma. The unique aroma of Eucalyptus made it popular all around the world. This medicinal aroma is mainly because of the presence of the aromatic oil in the buds and leaves of this tree. Such soothing oil is identified with its curative odor and quick effect on ailments. The crushed and bruised leaves also exhibit the same fragrance.
Among the widespread species of Eucalyptus, there are about four popular sub-species. They are Eucalyptus globulus species which is considered as the most widely cultivated species. It is also known as “Tasmania blue gum” scientifically known as the – Eucalyptus globulus tree. It is found growing in the island of Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait. Next renowned species is the “Maiden’s gum” tree botanically known as the Eucalyptus globulus maidenii-tree. This species is found growing in south-eastern New South Wales and North eastern regions of Victoria. “Southern blue gum” is the next species with the botanical name Eucalyptus globulus bicostata. It is found growing in many places including Victoria, New South Wales and Australia. The next species is named as “Gippsland blue gum” scientifically known as the “Eucalyptus globulus pseudoglobulus. It is found growing in the Flinders Island of the Bass Strait, Victoria and south eastern parts of New South Wales.
Latin name: Eucalyptus globules
Alternative names: Blue Gum, Blue Gum Tree, Eucalyptus, Fever Tree, Australian Fever Tree, Stringy Bark.
Eucalyptus tree is one of the quickest growing species in the world. This tree can also be called as one among the world’s biggest and tallest trees. Eucalyptus can be grown in varied climatic conditions and soil types. This dry land tree spreads a large network of roots underground to store the absorbed water. Eucalyptus is often grown in the temperate, tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. It requires good sunlight and grows in well-drained and fine soils. Circum-neutral and moisture retentive soils support the fertile growth of these trees. Cultivation is usually done by sowing the stored seeds. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol, alpha-terpineol, crystallized resin, linalool cymenes, terpenes, oil of pinene and limonene. This oil has aromatic, expectorant, anti-bacterial, stimulant, anti-malarial, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, deodorant, antispasmodic and corrective properties.
Uses: Eucalyptus oil is often used to treat common cold, cough, sinusitis, sore throat, pulmonary tuberculosis, scarlet fever, intermittent fever, sore throat, asthma, influenza and bronchitis. It is also used in the treatment of diabetes, dyspepsia, diphtheria, pyorrhea, halitosis, indigestion, microbial diseases of the lungs, infection, ulcer, sores, sepsis and burns. Eucalyptus oil is also used as a main formula in rubs, cough drops, vaporizers, cough syrups, mouthwash, toothpaste, liniments, vaporizer fluid and ointments.
