Although the eucalyptus tree is found mostly in South America, China, and Australia the health benefits of eucalyptus oil are known around the world. It’s benefits have been studied and used in aromatherapy for thousands of years. Eucalyptus leaves and oil distilled from those leaves have many uses both in aromatherapy and medicine.
Eucalyptus Tree
There are over 700 species of eucalyptus trees mostly found in Australia. Many species are commonly referred to as Gum Trees because at any break in the bark, they exude a gum-like substance. The tree is fairly fast growing so many developers and environmentalists seek out these types of trees.
Depending on the species, the tree can be a low shrub or a very large tree. Whether it is a eucalyptus plant or tree, it can be very beneficial to people and animals who live near it. Most eucalyptus trees are evergreen and their leaves are covered with oil glands. Eucalyptus oil is steam distilled from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree fairly easily.
Since there are so many species of eucalyptus trees in the world, there is often much confusion over which tree is included in an oil bottle. Labeling laws allow producers to loosely describe what is in their bottle, so the label is not always clear for the consumer which makes it easy for the producer to exploit the consumer. Each species of eucalyptus tree has a slightly different chemical constituent so it is very important for the consumer do their research when choosing essential oils made from the eucalyptus tree leaves.
Eucalyptus Globulus
Eucalyptus globulus is the most common species of eucalyptus in the world and is one of the most widely harvested trees in Australia. This tree usually grows to 30-50 meters in height and is often called the Blue Gum Eucalyptus. It’s bark sheds often and peels off in large strips. The tree is highly flammable and should not be planted near homes.
This tree produces essential oil that has a fresh penetrating scent that contains a high percentage of eucalyptol. This oil can be applied topically and supports the respiratory system and is soothing to muscles after exercise.
Some of the Young Living products that contain eucalyptus globulus include the RC oil blend and Ortho Sport and Ortho Ease massage oils.
Eucalyptus Oil Uses
Eucalyptus oil is known for being useful for cleaning, deodorizing, and it’s support of the respiratory system. It can be found in various supplements and personal care products. The various types of eucalyptus oils are also used by some veterinarians and can help soothe muscles after exercise in humans.
When choosing between the various species of eucalyptus oils, it’s important to be sure to get a pure oil. Reading labels, doing research, and seeking out quality companies like Young Living Essential Oils will insure a pure product that is safe for families.
Eucalyptus Oil Benefits
Generally eucalyptus oil can be applied topically and is beneficial to the respiratory and muscular systems. Here are some of the more common species of eucalyptus and how they are most commonly used.
Eucalyptus Radiata – Has a sweet and fruity aroma and is less intense in smell than eucalyptus globulus although it’s constituents are similar. It is commonly known as Black Peppermint oil. It can be used for massage after activity and can be diffused to help create a rejuvinating environment. This oil can be used effectively in household cleaners. It can be found in Young Living’s Breathe Again Roll-On, Thieves and RC oil blends, Inner Defense supplement, and Ortho Ease Massage Oil.
Eucalyptus Blue (eucalyptus bicostata) – has a fresh and balanced aroma and is also helpful for supporting the respiratory and muscular systems and is very calming to the mind. It is grown in Australia and Ecuador. This oil is also found in Young Living’s Breathe Again Roll-On.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil Recipes:
Respiratory Support Blend – Combine 1 T organic coconut oil with 2-3 drops eucalyptus oil (any of the species mentioned here). Apply to chest.
Respiratory Support Diffusion – Use a cool mist micronizing diffuser and add water and 2 drops lavender, 2 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops peppermint and breathe deeply.
Muscle Support – Combine 1 T organic coconut oil with 2 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops rosemary essential oil, and 1 drop lavender essential oil and apply to muscles.
Post Sports Rub – Combine 1 T organic coconut oil with 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 2 drops lavender essential oil and 1 drop juniper essential oil and apply to muscles after exercise.
Bathroom Cleaner – Combine 4 oz water, 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil, and 1 T vinegar in a 4 oz spray bottle. Spray on counters and toilet and wipe clean.
Hand Cleaner – Mix 2T sea salt with 1 drop eucalyptus oil for effective hand cleaning.
Air Freshener – Fill a cool mist micronizing diffuser with water to the fill line and 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil. Turn on and allow mist to circulate around the room for several hours.
Carpet Refresher – Mix 1 cup baking soda with 3-4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. Sprinkle over carpets and let sit for 15 minutes. Then vacuum.
Eucalyptus oil use for aromatherapy is growing. It blends well with lavender, rosemary, cedarwood and frankincense. Experiment with different diffuser blends using these oils. As always, be sure to choose a pure therapeutic grade essential oil from a company that maintains their own farms like Young Living.
Find out more about how to use essential oils and recipes here:
Peppermint oil uses and recipes
Tea tree oils uses and recipes
