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Eucalyptus: Not Just for Koalas

By: Venus Enock Eucalyptus globulus is a tree native to Tasmania and mainland Australia. There are about 300 different species of Eucalyptus, making it one of the most common genera of the Australian flora.

The Eucalyptus Tree

Eucalyptus has leaves that are leathery to the touch hanging obliquely or vertically from its stem. These leaves have various glands that secrete fragrant volatile oil which can be used for various medicinal purposes.

The eucalyptus has blossoms, which when in bud are covered with a cup-like membrane, hence the name which means "well-covered." When the flower expands and blooms fully, the bud membranes are thrown off as a lid. The eucalyptus fruit is encompassed by a woody, cup-shaped receptacle, containing numerous tiny seeds.

Eucalyptus is a rapidly-growing tree. Many species can grow to a towering 480 feet, surpassing the height of even the California giant sequoia. While the eucalyptus provides timber, it is more valued for the medicinal oils. There are three main classifications of oils derived from eucalyptus leaves, including aromatic oils, medicinal oils and industrial oils. Each type of oil holds unique commercial significance.

Therapeutic Oils

The valuable oils found in eucalyptus are taken from the leaves by a process called aqueous distillation. Eucalyptus oil can be colorless or straw-colored, has a unique odor and flavor, and is soluble in its own weight of alcohol. It is likely the most powerful antiseptic of its class, and has an important disinfectant action. Eucalyptus oil becomes more potent with age, and can be used to destroy lower forms of life.

The most important component of eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol. E. globulus species contains up to 70 percent eucalyptol, making it a capable disinfectant.

When taken internally, eucalyptus oil acts like a typical volatile oil to a remarkable degree. The oil is a stimulant and is sometimes used as an antiseptic gargle. Applied topically, eucalyptus oil can diminish sensibility and increase cardiac action. The natural antiseptic properties of eucalyptus oil may provide some response against malaria; however it is not as powerful as cinchona, a more traditional anti-malarial remedy.

Two significant effects of eucalyptus are its roles in stimulating and balancing. With middle notes of woody scents and camphorous, eucalyptus is an important ingredient in aromatherapy products and nasal inhalants. The many medicinal properties of eucalyptus make it useful in analgesics, anti-inflammatories, antiseptics, antiviral medications and stimulants.

In the home, eucalyptus can be put to use as an air disinfectant and a decongestant. It is used to treat respiratory difficulties including asthma and bronchitis. Eucalyptus can be used to treat burns, cuts, influenza, and headaches. The potent aroma of eucalyptus acts as a powerful insect repellant. Among its many other uses, it can be used to treat wounds, muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers and urinary infections.

Taking Eucalyptus Steam Inhalations

When you have a cold, a steam inhalation allows hot, moist air to enter the sinuses and respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is widely respected for its abilities as a decongestant. When used as a steam inhalation, the oils can help to clear nasal passages and unblock sinuses.

To prepare a eucalyptus steam inhalation, you'll need a kettle of boiling water, some eucalyptus oil, a large towel or sheet and a large container or bowl.

With the materials at hand, pour about four to six cups of boiling water from the kettle to the bowl. Add three drops of eucalyptus oil to the boiling water. Place your head over the bowl with your eyes looking downward. Use the sheet or towel as a "tent" to enclose your face and head over the bowl. With eyes closes, inhale deeply and breathe slowly. Continue for about 15 minutes, or until the nasal passages are cleared.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Venus Enock is a writer for several well-known Internet magazines, on man health and alternative health subjects.
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