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EUCALYPTUS




Eucalyptus


Botanical Name

Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus spp.

Common Name

Eucalyptus, Tasmanian blue gum, southern blue gum, blue gum, victorian blue gum, gum tree, stringybark tree, Australian fever tree

Family

Myrtaceae

Parts Used

Leaves

Native To

Eucalyptus globulus is native to Tasmania and southeastern Australia. In Tasmania, eucalyptus grows mainly along the east coast

Harvesting Guidelines

Eucalyptus leaves are best harvested before they start to flower. To preserve their potency, it's important to air dry the leaves in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight. Once the leaves are fully dried, they can be stored in an airtight glass container to maintain their freshness.

 


Eucalyptus trees are known for their rapid growth, making them one of the fastest-growing trees in the world. The name "Eucalyptus" comes from the Greek words "eu" meaning "good" or "well" and "kalyptos" meaning "covered," referring to the way the calyx forms a lid over the bud. These trees are also commonly called gum trees due to the red resin, or kino, that can sometimes be seen oozing through cracks in the bark. Interestingly, eucalyptus gained the nickname "fever tree" when it was planted in Algeria in the mid-1800s and helped to reduce the mosquito population, thus preventing malarial fever. Today, eucalyptus is cultivated in many temperate areas for its various uses and benefits. (1)


Eucalyptus has astringent and antimicrobial properties which make it helpful for conditions in which the mucous membranes are relaxed and discharge is occurring, such as in cases of respiratory catarrh and infection, nephritis, cystitis, dysentery, vaginal discharge, cervicitis, and cervical erosion. Eucalyptus has antispasmodic actions and is indicated for asthmatic conditions, as well as for chronic bronchitis and whooping cough . One mechanism by which eucalyptus is helpful in respiratory conditions is through its constituent eucalyptol, which dilates the airways and has anti-inflammatory actions . (2)


Eucalyptus has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for respiratory issues. Inhaling the steam of eucalyptus leaves in hot water can help relieve sinus congestion and stop nosebleeds. The crushed leaves can also be used as a warm herbal compress on the back and chest. Eucalyptus tea can be gargled to soothe sore throats, and the tincture can be diluted in water and used as a spray for throat and pulmonary conditions. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar suggests blending eucalyptus with coltsfoot and peppermint as a tea for colds. With its many uses, eucalyptus is a versatile and effective natural remedy.(3)


Eucalyptus is a versatile herb with warming properties that can help alleviate coldness in the extremities and cold sweats. In Ayurveda, eucalyptus is known as a warming diaphoretic that can reduce kapha and vata while increasing pitta. Eucalyptus can be used to treat bad breath and pale, dirty-looking tongues.(4)


Eucalyptus is a versatile plant with many health benefits. Its active constituent, cineole, gives it antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, making it useful for treating wounds and abrasions. Eucalyptus also has anti-inflammatory effects, making it helpful for skin and joint conditions. A poultice made from eucalyptus can be applied to sprains, bruises, and sore muscles, and it is safe to use topically on burns. Eucalyptus can also be used as a bath herb to ease sore joints and muscles and soothe respiration. Additionally, rubbing fresh eucalyptus leaves onto the skin can act as an insect repellent. The Yaegl, an Aboriginal community of Australia, have traditionally used eucalyptus bark to address scabies and sores.(5)

 

Adult Dose (6)

Infusion: 8 fl oz (1-2 tsp dried herb in 1 cup water) 3x/day

Tincture: 1 mL (1:5, 25%) 3x/day


Safety

The use of eucalyptus is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. It is also important to exercise caution when using it with children and adolescents under 18 years old. In fact, it is contraindicated for children under 30 months of age due to the risk of laryngospasm, which can be triggered by the plant's volatile oil, cineole. (7)


Actions


Energy


References:


(1)Bracewell, R. (2005). Eucalyptus globulus: Tasmanian blue gum. Trees of Stanford. https://trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/EUCglo.htm

(2)Johnson, R.L., Foster, S., Kiefer, D., & Low Dog, T. (2010). National Geographic guide to medicinal herbs: The world’s most effective healing plants. National Geographic.

(3)Gladstar, R. (2008). Herbal remedies for vibrant health: 175 teas, tonics, oils, salves, tinctures and other natural remedies for the entire family. Storey Publishing.

(4)Frawley, D., & Lad, V. (1986). The yoga of herbs: An ayurvedic guide to herbal medicine. Lotus Press.

(5)Packer, J., Brouwer, N., Harrington, D., Gaikwad, J., Heron, R., Yaegl Community Elders, … Jamie, J. (2011). An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by the Yaegl Aboriginal community in northern New South Wales, Australia. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(1), 244-255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2011.11.008

(6)Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical herbalism: The science and practice of herbal medicine. Healing Arts Press.

(7)European Medicines Agency. (2013, April 15). Community herbal monograph on Eucalyptus globulus Labill., folium. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-community-herbal-monograph-eucalyptus-globulus-labill-folium_en.pdf

 

Scientific Research:


An in vitro evaluation of antibiotic efficacy of various concentration of Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract on periodontal pathogens Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.



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