Eucalyptus Leaf

History and Uses:
The Eucalyptus tree is one of the largest trees in the world and can grow to heights well over 250 feet. There are hundreds of species, of which Eucalyptus globulus is the most common, and all are native to Australia. The tree is planted in hot, swampy parts of the world to help drain swampland and to discourage the proliferation of malaria-carrying mosquitoes. Highly-aromatic Eucalyptus is also used in sachets and pet collars to repel fleas. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the leaves, twigs and oil (resulting from steam distillation of the leaves). Eucalyptus was first used by Australian Aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for water in the dry Outback, but also used the leaves as a remedy for fevers. In traditional Australian Aboriginal medicine, the leaves were used in poultices for any type of wound and inflammation. Eucalyptus was introduced to the

West in the nineteenth century by the director of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, and cultivation of the tree spread in southern Europe and North America. During the last century, American physicians used Eucalyptus oil to disinfect medical equipment and wounds. They also recommended a steam inhalation of Eucalyptus vapors to help treat whooping cough, bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. Eucalyptin, which provides the

spicy aroma, loosens mucus, making it easier to expel. Eucalyptus is considered to have the following properties: antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, antispasmodic, astringent, bronchial-dilating, circulatory stimulating, decongestant, diaphoretic, disinfectant, expectorant and febrifuge. The primary chemical constituents of Eucalyptus include essential oils (cineol, pinene), polyphenolic acids (caffeic, gallic), bioflavonoids (eucalyptin, hyperoside, rutin), tannins, aldehydes and bitter resins. The properties of

the oils from different species vary slightly, but all are very antiseptic. Most Eucalyptus medications are made from the greenish-yellow oil obtained from the mature leaves.

The number of ready-made preparations that contain Eucalyptus oil is enormous. Every kind of product is represented, from pure oil through oil-containing ointments and rubs,

to candies and syrups. The effect is convincing, and side effects from the tea or from any of the commercial preparations are extremely rare. Eucalyptus oil is a strong antiseptic, and lozenges made from it are useful for lung diseases, colds and sore throats. Its expectorant properties are useful in bronchitis, and it can also be used as a vapor bath

or chest rub for asthma and other respiratory complaints. It is said to be useful for burns, where it prevents infection. Externally, its antiseptic and deodorant qualities make it suitable for use on wounds and ulcers. Diluted in sunflower oil (as a carrier oil), it can be applied to cold sores or used as a massage oil for painful joints. A cold extract made from the leaves is helpful for indigestion and for intermittent fever. A preliminary study suggests that a combination of menthol and Eucalyptus as a nasal inhalant may be helpful in cases of mild to moderate snoring. Also, in a double-blind trial, a Eucalyptus-based rub was found helpful for warming muscles in athletes. The leaves of Eucalyptus have been smoked (rolled in a cigarette) in order to provide relief in bronchial catarrh, asthma and other affections of the respiratory organs.