If you hear the word eucaplytus perhaps you think of the fragrant trees, the camphoraceous essential oil, or maybe even a chest rub but there's more to the eucaplytus genus than the familiar "vapor rub" scents. You may even think of koala bears as eucaplytus leaves are one of the main staples of their diet. Lets learn a bit more about the essential oils from this genus.
The Eucalytus essential oil we most commonly run in to is probably Eucalytus globulus* or Eucalyptus radiata*. These essential oils are typically rich in the oxide 1,8 cineole. Research suggests that this oxide offers analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial benefits. It is also found to support increased cerebral blood flow, help break down mucus, and act as a skin penetration enhancer. This makes E. globulus and E. radiata great choices to address cold and respiratory issues (say in a diffuser or inhaler blend, a steam, or chest rub) as well as to ease aches (say in a bath or massage blend).
Less familiar to many essential oil enthusiasts is Eucalytus dives*. This species actually has very little to no 1,8 cineole but instead tends to offer the ketone piperitone and monoterpene a-phellandrene.
At present there is not much solid research on piperitone but it is believed to contribute to helping reduce feelings of congestion. The a-phellandrene is noted to offer anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, and anti-spasmodic properties. This makes E. dives a great choice for tackling colds and respiratory issues as well as addressing muscle and joint aches.
Eucalyptus citriodora* and its lemony aroma that comes from the aldehyde citronellal*. It also offers the monoterpenols isopulegol
and citronellol. While the benefits of isopulegol are not widely researched, the cintronellal and cintronellol are believed to offer anti-microbial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties. E.citiodora is often used to fight germs and insects. It sedative properties can be used to usher in a sense of calm, and it can also be useful in blends to each muscle and joint aches.
In addition to the about mentioned Eucalytus species essential oil is derived from Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus gunnii, and Eucalyptus polybractea, which each offer a unique aromatic and therapeutic profile. We'll save those for another day. But needless to say, when looking for Eucalytus essential oil it is essential (pun intended) to know that actual species you are searching for.
Are you a fan of Eucalytus? Which species is your favorite and why? Drop a comment.
Aromatic blessings,
Tricia
* Safety Notes:
Eucalytus globulus and Eucalytus radiata: due to the 1.8 cineole content use with caution with children 5-10 and with asthmatics. Best to avoid with children under 5.
Eucalytus dives: no known safety issues
Eucalytus citriodora: If used above 3% cintronellal can be a skin allergen.
**Disclaimer:
I understand that the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the therapeutic suggestions or any statements made on this website about essential oils, carriers or other products offered by Aromatherapy by Tricia Ambroziak (ABT)
The statements made on this website are for educational purposes and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.