7 August 2015
About EucalyptusEucalyptus is a genus of flowering trees belonging to the family Myrtaceae and is native to Australia. There are over 700 species of Eucalyptus but only 15 of them are cultivated outside Australia, from Europe to Africa to America and the Mediterranean, the Middle east, China and the Indian subcontinent.
Many species of Eucalyptus exude a large amount of sap when the bark is broken and for this reason they are also called Gum trees. About The Eucalyptus TreeEucalyptus are fast growing trees and though they are a source of wood and essential oil, these trees are water guzzlers and cause a rapid fall in the underground water level. Their roots can reach depths of more than 130 feet in search of water.
Mature Eucalyptus vary in size from shrubs to very large trees that are over 300 feet tall. They are mostly evergreen and their drooping leaves are covered with oil glands. The leaves are green, lanceolate and waxy and the flowers range in colors from white to and cream to yellow, pink to red. Some species have smooth trunk since they shed bark every year while in others it is hard and deeply furrowed. In others the bark is in between these extremes. Most Eucalyptus do not tolerate frost conditions. The trees are highly inflammable due to the presence of oil in the leaves. The branches of some species break and fall easily. Some Eucalyptus plantations have become invasive. Eucalyptus tree is the main food source for the Koalas. Uses Of EucalyptusEucalyptus is cultivated in many parts of the world as their growth is fast.
They supply wood that can be used as timber, firewood, for producing paper and making musical instruments. Eucalyptus have been used to clear up swamps and prevent spread of malaria. Eucalyptus oil is used for various purposes like cleaning, deodorizing, as medicinal oil, an antiseptic, as a solvent in industry, an insect repellant and making of medicated cough drops, toothpastes and decongestants. High quality honey is produced by bees from the nectar of some Eucalyptus plants. Dyes are made from all parts of the tree which are used to dye protein fibers like wool and silk. Eucalyptus Essential OilEucalyptus oil is produced from the leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus tree (also called the Blue gum tree, fever tree or stringy bark tree), by steam distillation process.
Eucalyptus oil contains 70-83% Eucalyptol. Eucalyptus oil is of 3 main types depending on its end use which also determines its composition. Eucalyptus oil is colorless but has a distinctive taste and odor. It is used in pharmaceutical, industrial and perfumery industry. The highest cineol content (80-95%) is found in 2 species - Eucalyptus kochii and Eucalyptus polybractea. Eucalyptus oil has traditionally been used in Indian and Chines medicine to treat many health conditions. Australian Aborginals used it to treat skin wounds and fungal infections, fever and colds, sinus congestion and body pains while its tea was used to reduce fever. Eucalyptus oil kills insects, mites and ticks and the U.S. officially registered Eucalyptus oil as an insecticide in 1948. Australia is the major producer and supplier of Eucalyptus oil. Some Health Benefits And Conditions Treated By Eucalyptus OilEucalyptus oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti inflammatory, decongestant, antispasmodic, immune stimulating, expectorant, anti fungal, antiviral and insecticidal properties.
Treating Respiratory Problems From simple conditions like cough, cold and sore throat to more severe ones like asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. Eucalyptus oil has been found to treat these conditions because of its anti inflammatory and other properties. Treating Wounds Eucalyptus oil not only soothes wounds, it prevents them from getting infected. and heals them because of its antiseptic properties. Rejuvenates The Mind Eucalyptus oil is cooling and refreshing. It therefore helps to ward off sluggishness because of its stimulating properties as well. It thus helps to relieve stress and tension and increases mental activity. By its vasodilatory property it helps to increase blood circulation and flow to the brain and improves brain performance. Relieves Pain The analgesic and anti inflammatory properties of this oil help to relieve both joint pain and muscle pain, even nerve pain. The oil can be massaged over the affected area for relief. Stimulates The Immune System Because of its immune system stimulating property eucalyptus oil can be useful as a supportive in immuno suppressive diseases and after chemotherapy. Benefits Diabetics Diabetics usually have poor circulation. Because of its vasodilating properties it can help to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation. In Tuberculosis and Pneumonia The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of this oil help to clear lungs and reduce inflammation. It can be applied on the chest and back. For Skin Care Applied on the skin eucalyptus oil helps to treat both bacterial as well as fungal infections. Reduces Fever The analgesic property helps to lower body temperature. Benefits The Oral Cavity It treats dental infections and controls cavities, plaque and infection of the gums due to its germicidal properties. Removes Lice It helps to get rid of lice in the hair. As A Room Freshener The oil has a pleasant smell and because it kills germs too and has a deodorizing nature it is excellent to sterilize the air in hospital rooms. For the same reason it can be used in bath water to kill germs on the body. Eucalyptus Oil And AromatherapyEucalyptus oil blends well with essential oils like rosemary, thyme, lavender, cedarwood and frankincense.
It is therefore increasingly becoming popular in aromatherapy. Precautions With Eucalyptus OilEucalyptus oil when ingested is unsafe and may prove fatal.
Those pregnant, breastfeeding and children should avoid eucalyptus oil use. Those with liver disease, kidney disease and low BP should consult their doctor before using eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil might lower blood sugar levels and may also affect how quickly the liver breaks down certain medications. Talk to your healthcare provider before using Eucalyptus oil. References
DisclaimerThe information provided in this hub is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician, or health care provider before taking any home remedies, supplements or starting a new health regime.
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