Blue Gum Eucalyptus

(Eucalyptus globulus)

SAFETY INFORMATION: Eucalyptus is perfectly safe for home use as long as it is diluted before application. As with all essential oils, it MUST not be taken internally. Eucalyptus oil can kill if swallowed with an amount as little as 3.5ml. Always keep all essential oils out of reach of children.

Family: Myrtaceae
Other names: Gum tree, southern blue gum, Tasmanian blue gum, fever tree, stringy bark

Known as a 'green' oil, it is a colourless liquid that turns yellow when aged. It has a strong camphoraceous odour and a woody undertone. It has a cooling effect on the skin. The oil blends well with thyme, rosemary, lavender, marjoram, pine, cedarwood, and lemon.
Eucalyptus radiata var. australiana, the narrow leaved eucalyptus, is often preferred to the Blue Gum in aromatherapy because its odour is not quite as harsh and has a sweet tint to it.

*Not compatible with homeopathic treatment*

Actions and Uses

Aches, pains, and sprains rheumatism, muscle cramps & pains, sprains, backache, stiff neck	Air Freshener airborne germ killer
Breathing Problems Asthma, coughs, congestion, bronchitis	Colds/ Flu congestion, sinus congestion, head congestion, sore throat, anti-viral
Headaches general headaches	Insect Repellent
Skin irritations Insect Bites	Wounds blisters, burns, cuts

Carrier Oils

Tradition and History

Eucalyptus is a traditional household remedy in Australia and used for a variety of ailments from feverish conditions to skin problems. the Aborigines used the leaves to heal wounds, fight infection, and relieve muscular pain. It is used for similar conditions in Western and Eastern medicine. The wood is used for timber production in Spain and burned by the Aborigines to flavour their food in cooking fires.

Extraction: The Eucalyptus tree is a tall lovely evergreen that can reach up to 90m (295ft) high. The young trees have bluish green oval leaves and creamy white flowers. The pale grey bark is smooth and often coloured with a white powder. The oil is extracted from fresh or partially dried leaves and twigs by steam distillation.