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Eucalyptus: Australia's Marvelous Medicine

Koalas are not the only beings that reap the benefits of eucalyptus. There are about 300 varieties of eucalyptus globules, a tree native to mainland Australia and Tasmania. With so many varieties it is one of Australia's most distinguishing flora.

The Tree

Leaves of the eucalyptus are leathery to the touch, and hang obliquely or vertically from the stem of the plant. The leaves feature glands that secrete fragrant volatile oils. These oils are used for various medicinal purposes.

The eucalyptus has blossoms, which when in bud are covered with a cup-like membrane, hence the name which means "well-covered." When the flower expands and blooms fully, the bud membranes are thrown off as a lid. The eucalyptus fruit is encompassed by a woody, cup-shaped receptacle, containing numerous tiny seeds.

Eucalyptus trees grow rapidly. Many of its species grow to a height of 480 feet, surpassing even that of the California giant sequoia. Eucalyptus trees render timber but they are all the more valuable for the oil they produce. The oils derived from eucalyptus leaves are roughly divided into three classes of commercial significance: the medicinal oils, the industrial oils, and the aromatic oils.

Eucalyptus Oil

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.

The most important component of eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol. E. globulus species contains 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.

In the home, eucalyptus can be put to use as an air disinfectant and a decongestant. It is used to treat respiratory difficulties including asthma and bronchitis. Eucalyptus can be used to treat burns, cuts, influenza, and headaches. The potent aroma of eucalyptus acts as a powerful insect repellant. Among its many other uses, it can be used to treat wounds, muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers and urinary infections.

Inhaling Eucalyptus Steam

Steam inhalations can be very beneficial as they all hot, moist air to enter the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is a natural choice for steam inhalations, as it is widely regarded for its decongestant properties. Using the oil as a steam inhalation can help to unblock sinuses and nasal passages.

To prepare a eucalyptus steam inhalation, you'll need a kettle of boiling water, some eucalyptus oil, a large towel or sheet and a large container or bowl.

When you've assembled all of the materials, carefully pour about four to six cups of boiling water into the large bowl. Mix in three drops of eucalyptus oil. Place your head over the bowl with your eyes cast downward and your face shielded by the sheet or towel. Close your eyes and inhale deeply and slowly. Continue breathing in the eucalyptus vapors until your nasal passages are cleared, about fifteen minutes.