Eucalyptus

Latin name: Eucalyptus globulus

Family: Myrtaceae

Folk Names: Blue Gum, Tasmanian Blue Gum Tree

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DESCRIPTIVE CHARACTERISTICS 

Part of the Plant Used

Leaf, essential oil distilled from leaf.

Genus with more than 500 species is one of the tallest trees in the world. It is native to Tasmania and southern Victoria; however, Spain, China and South America are now significant producers. Historically, the tree has the capability to suck up so much water that it was said to have dried the malaria infested swamps of Australia. This was also said about melaleuca (Tea Tree), a relative. The Eucalyptus tree is harvested for lumber too.

Other species common in medicine: eucalyptus bicostata, eucalyptus citriodora, eucalyptus radiata, eucalyptus polybractea, eucalyptus staigeriana.

CONSTITUENTS

• Volatile oil (0.5% to 3.5%)
• 1,8-cineole (80-85%)
• ɑ-pinene
• p-pinene
• d-limonene
• ɑ-phellandrene
• Polyphenolic acids
  • Caffeic
  • Ferulic
  • Gallic
  • Protocatechuic
• Flavonoids
  • Eucalyptin
  • Hyperosides
  • Rutin
• Quercetin
• Tannins
• Resins

THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

• Antimicrobial
• Antispasmodic
• Antiseborrheic
• Expectorant
• Stimulant
• Febrifuge (reduce fever)
• Antiseptic
• Rubefacient (causing dilation of the capillaries and an increase in blood circulation)
• Mucolytic
• Antiviral
• Antiulcer
• Antifungal

Clinical: Its crushed leaves have long been used in treatment of respiratory problems. The pungent vapors help to break up phlegm and congestion while also offering antiseptic properties to combat bacterial and fungal invaders. Its compounds have been used to treat influenza patients and soothe inflammation. The eucapharma oils are also indicated for mental fatigue and tension headaches. Still used today in some surgical dressings.

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Cramps
• Croup
• Dysentery
• Fainting
• Influenza
• Gallbladder problems
• Infections
• Musculoskeletal Pain + Inflammation
• Ringworm
• Sinusitis
• Skin Problems
• Sore Throat
• Staph infections
• Tuberculosis
• Worms

Folk: Acne, diabetes, fever, gum disease, hoarseness, lack of appetite, liver disease, measles, nerve pain, scarlet fever, whooping cough.

Energetics: spicy, warm, astringent.

Meridians/ Organ affinity:  lung, kidney.

HERB-DRUG INTERACTIONS

Can be difficult to eliminate through the kidneys, but no major side effects or drug interactions have been reported.

Dosage

Leaf used topically as an antimicrobial and internally as a decongestant and expectorant. Essential oil commonly used in aromatherapy. Daily dose of 4 to 6 grams leaf or 3 to 9 grams tincture recommended.

TINCTURE: 1-3 ml three times daily (1:5 in 25%)

INFUSION: 1 to 2 teaspoons of leaves to one cup of boiling water. Infuse in a covered container for 10 to 15 minutes. This should be drunk three times daily.

Other formulary:

• Slippery Elm Powder and water for lung infections.
• Cough drops and Mouthwashes
• Steam inhalation and ointment on the chest to relieve lung congestion.
• Oil infusion for aching muscles, pain relief, blood congestion.
• Leaves rolled and smoked for bronchial and infectious conditions of the lungs.
• Eucalyptus honey recommended often for parasitic and putrescent conditions.
• Essential oil diffused fir improved air quality.
• Insect repellent.
• Cool compress for warm skin irritations.

Combinations: 

• Respiratory: myrtle, cedar, bay laurel, ravintsara, sweet fennel, thyme, peppermint, rosemary, sage, pine, ginger, pepper, hemlock, lemon, yuzu.
• Musculoskeletal:  lavender, lavandin, rosemary, sweet marjoram, thyme, pine, juniper berry, clove bud, black pepper, ginger, lemon.
• Skin/Acne:  basil, fir, rosemary, camper, manuka, petitgrain, lemon, yuzu, sandalwood.
• Nerves:  rosemary, peppermint, juniper berry, bergamot mint, grapefruit, lemon, black pepper. 

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