Eucalyptus Aromatherapy and Essential Oil - Discussion and Uses

What are the specifics of the usage of eucalyptus aromatherapy?

A native of Australia and Tasmania, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) has been widely and successfully spread throughout the subtropics, particularly Central Asia, North Africa and California.

In horticultural terms, eucalyptus numbers among one of the fastest and tallest growing trees, and its blue green leaves make it easily distinguishable. First introduced to the European world in 1867 at the Paris Exposition by curator of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, eucalyptus quickly gained a reputation as an antiseptic replacement for cajeput oil.

Also called "blue gum trees" or "stringy bark trees", the over 300 species and 700 varieties currently in cultivation yield a variety of scents, though the lemony fragrance of E. citriodora remains a favorite with aromatherapists for eucalyptus aromatherapy.

About 25 species currently provide the bulk of the essential oil on the market used for eucalyptus aromatherapy. Eucalyptus ranks as one of the less expensive essential oils due to the rapid renewal of plant stock and the bountiful oil production of the plant's leaves.

Harvesters distill the oil from the twigs and leaves of both young and mature trees, though the mature trees yield more aromatic oil. Scientists have yet to synthesize the fragrance, as over 250 constituents compose the oil. Eucalyptus and its derivatives may be found in most cologne and aftershave products, as well as an antiseptic in mouthwash and household cleaners.

Australians have long used the oil derived from the blue-green leaves to treat flu, viral infections, sore throat, fever, and muscle pain. Most vapor rubs on the market today also contain eucalyptus, as do many cough drops and even some sweets.

In aromatherapy, eucalyptus oil's antibacterial properties make it useful as a liniment and deodorant. The oil can also be inhaled as a steam to relive congestion and other sinus conditions, or can be used in warm compresses or in the bath. One can also make a tisane or tea by steeping 1 tablespoon of dried leaves in a pint of boiling water for ten minutes; this is another way of using eucalyptus aromatherapy. Strain, and add honey if desired. One can also use this preparation as a fumigant in a sickroom or bathroom.

Here's yet another way to use eucalyptus aromatherapy - essential oil added to a humidifier, vaporizer, or oil burner achieves a similar effect, and new mothers are encouraged to add a few drops to the vaporizer in the nursery to keep germs at bay until the baby's immune system has fully developed.

Its antibacterial properties make it a wonderful skin cleanser, particularly for oily skin types prone to acne. Eucalyptus can also be used as an ointment to treat other skin conditions such as dandruff, chapped hands, and some rashes. In addition, those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and similar painful joint condition will find steam baths and tinctures using this oil to be very soothing.

Athletes will find an immersion in a eucalyptus bath to be a welcome retreat after a strenuous practice, as the vapors work to relieve strained and tired muscles. The essential oil can also be mixed into a carrier oil base for an after-practice massage to soothe sore muscles.

Many aromatherapists also use the eucalyptus aromatherapy oil in conjunction with oils such as peppermint and rosemary to create energizing blends to boost vitality, remove fatigue, and improve mental alertness. Eucalyptus also blends well with lemon, cypress, lavender and pine.

To stimulate the nervous system, massage the low back, tops of the hands and solar plexus a few times a day. The essential oil can also be applied to pulse points, or few drops added to a handkerchief and discreetly inhaled. As with all essential oils, be sure you purchase from a reputable supplier, as quality varies between manufacturers and distributors.

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