why eucalyptus? 
Winter time is cold and flu season and eucalyptus is well known to keep the flu at bay. besides being one of the best antiseptics for the home this historical oil is one of nature’s best cleansers of the environment.  

introducing eucalyptus 
A fresh and fun look 
by Misty Rae Cech, ND

It is said that the eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. Belonging to the Myrtacae family (the same family as tea tree), the name eucalyptus means ‘well-covered’ which refers to the little cap that covers the flower before budding. A tall, water-loving tree, eucalyptus is one of the fastest growing trees in the world, reaching heights of between 300-480 feet. Growing in damp marshy areas on moist land and clays eucalyptus is often found on hillsides or moist valleys in deep rich soils. Native of Australia, where it was regarded as a general ‘cure-all’ by the Aborigines, there are over 300 species and 700 varieties of eucalyptus. The trees have been used for everything including mulch, shade, fuel and hardwoods. It is also wind breaking and malaria fighting. Its extensive root system absorbs vast amounts of water. It is due to this phenomenon that it has been intentionally planted in marshy, malaria infested areas in an attempt to dry up and purify the soil and air.

The German botanist and explorer, Baron Ferdin and Von Muller suggested that the fragrance of the trees might prove antiseptic. It was in 1855 that the French government sent seeds to Algeria and consequently many of the disease ridden areas were converted to healthy dry ones.Eucalyptus oil was in huge demand during World War I, as it was used to control a meningitis outbreak and for the influenza of 1919. Today the major eucalyptus producing countries include China, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Russia, and Chile. With over 50 pounds of plant material needed for one pound of oil, eucalyptus was first distilled in 1788, when doctors John White and Dennis Cossiden used its oil in treating problems of the chest. The first works of the antiseptic and bacterial properties of the oil were published in Germany.

Eucalyptus is also known to help with asthma and bronchitis. Extracted from eucalyptus peperita, the original oil introduced to Europe was called ‘Sydney peppermint’ and quickly became popular. Historically used for its powerful natural medicinal qualities, eucalyptus globulus (also known as Tasmanian blue) is both an antiseptic and an analgesic. Interestingly, when seen from an aerial view the blue gum forest emits an ethereal blue haze. A refreshing scent with rich cineole and slightly camphoraceous, with a typical eucalyptus smell. Blue gum blends well with other essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, melissa, pine, tea tree and juniper. Eucalyptus is one of the most universal and versatile of essential oils. Some of its many properties include analgesic, antiseptic, deodorant, expectorant and vermifuge (anti-parasitic).Today, eucalyptus oil continues to be a familiar ingredient in chest rubs, general antiseptics, decongestants, cough remedies, muscle and joint ointments. When used externally, eucalyptus is both non-toxic and non-irritating and is a must for every natural first aid kit and home medicine chest. 

Cautions: Eucalyptus should be used in dilution, and avoided during pregnancy. 

to order the eucalyptus issue visit: http://www.aromatherapythymes.com/subscriptions.htm