Eucalyptus: Australia's Marvelous Medicine

By: Venus Enock

The Eucalyptus globulus is a tree native to mainland Australia and Tasmania. There are around 300 species in the genus, making it one of the most distinguishing 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.

When in bud, eucalyptus blossoms are covered in a cup-like membrane, hence the name which translates to "well-covered." In full bloom, the flower full expands and the "lid" of the membrane falls off. The eucalyptus fruit is held in a cup-shaped, woody receptacle that also contains many tiny seeds.

The eucalyptus tree grows very quickly and can reach 480 feet, higher than even the mighty California giant sequoia. Eucalyptus trees are used for timber, but they are more valued for the oils they produce. Eucalyptus oils can be divided into three main classifications, each with commercial significance: aromatic, medicinal and industrial oils.

Therapeutic Oil

Oil is removed from eucalyptus leaves by aqueous distillation. It is a colorless or straw-colored liquid material with a characteristic odor and taste and soluble in its own weight of alcohol. Likely the most powerful antiseptic of its class, eucalyptus oil has decided disinfectant action. It is most potent when it's aged and it can destroy the lower forms of life.

Eucalyptol is the most important component of eucalyptus oil. The various species of eucalyptus globulus are comprised of up to 70 percent eucalyptol, making it a capable disinfectant.

Internally, eucalyptus oil acts like a typical volatile oil to a remarkable degree. It is a stimulant and can be employed as an antiseptic gargle. If locally applied, eucalyptus oil can diminish sensibility and increase cardiac action. With its antiseptic properties, the oil from this plant may have some response against malaria but it's not as powerful as the more traditional anti-malarial remedy, cinchona.

Two of the significant effects of eucalyptus are its role in balancing and stimulation. Its middle note aroma, suggestive of camphorous or woody scents makes it an important ingredient in aroma therapy and as a nasal inhalant. Eucalyptus has several medicinal properties, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, and stimulant.

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.

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.

Prepare a eucalyptus steam inhalation by gathering the following materials: a kettle with boiling water, eucalyptus oil, a sheet or large towel and a sizable bowl or container.

Once you have all the necessary materials, carefully pour about four to six cups of boiling water from the kettle into the large bowl. Then, mix in three drops of oil. Place your head over the bowl, eyes looking down on it. Next, shield your face with the sheet or towel. Close your eyes and inhale slowly and deeply. Continue breathing deeply for about 15 minutes until your nasal passages are cleared.

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

Contributor Venus Enock is a writer for several popular Internet magazines, on man health and alternative health subjects.
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