Family: Myrtaceae; other members include myrtleGenus and species: eucalyptus globulus
Also known as: Gum tree, blue gum, Australian fever tree Parts used: Leaf oil
HEALING with Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus leaf oil contains chemical (eucalyptol) that gives the herb its pleasant aroma and healing value.
1. Colds and Flu. Eucalyptus loosesn phlegm in the chest, making it easier to cough up. That’s why so many cough lozenges are flavored with it.
2. Wound Treatment. The anti-bacterial action of eucalyptol also makes it an effective treatment for minor cuts and scrapes.
3. Cockroach Repellent. Eucalyptol repels cockroaches.
Rx for Eucalyptus
For an inhalant, boil a handful of leaves or a few drops of essential oil water.
Rub a drop or two of eucalyptus oil into minor cuts and scrapes after they have been thoroughly washed with soap and water.
For an herbal bath, wrap a handful of leaves in a cloth and run bathwater over it.
For an herbal bath, wrap a handful of leaves in a cloth and run bathwater over it.
For a cool, spicy refreshing infusion to treat colds and flu, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried, crushed leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups a day. Is you use essential oil to make an infusion, do not use more than one or two drops.
Do not give eucalyptus to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65, start with low strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.
SAFETY FACTOR
Used externally, eucalyptus oil is considered non-irritating but sensitive individuals may develop a rash.
When taken internally, eucalyptus oil is highly poisonous. Fatalities have been reported from ingestion of as little as a teaspoon.
The FDA has approved eucalyptus oil for use in food and drugs. Anyone may use eucalyptus preparations externally although infants and children may rebel against the pungent aroma. If you develop a rash, stop using it. For otherwise healthy non-pregnant, non-nursing adults, eucalyptus is considered relatively safe for cautious internal use in the very small amount typically recommended.
Eucalyptus should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your doctor. If eucalyptus causes minor discomforts, such as stomach upset or diarrhea, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks.
Ref.: Healing Herbs, by Michael Castleman, 1991
