EUCALYPTUS RADIATA ESSENTIAL OIL

Eucalyptus radiata

Eucalyptus is among the best known and most commonly used oils in aromatherapy. The trees are native to Australia, where it grows in forest communities. Eucalyptus trees grow very tall and to walk through such a forest with trees of over 100m towering above is a magical feeling. As the sun heats up the oils in the leaves are released and perfume the air with a fresh, sweet, aromatic scent. Unfortunately, it is impossible to capture this complex aroma in a bottle and the camphor-like scent of the essential oil is rather less sensuous. There are differences though, depending on which species of Eucalyptus the oil derives from. Eucalyptus is powerfully anti-bacterial and very cleansing, which is why it is included in so many cold remedies, lozenges and chest rubs. Studies have shown that diffused in a room, Eucalyptus oil kills about 70% of airborne Staphylococci bacteria. The native people of Australia use Eucalyptus to treat wounds and to relieve fever. The European immigrants soon learned its value from the natives, and today Eucalyptus reputations as a panacea has spread far beyond Australia.

Traditional
Eucalyptus is best known for its excellent effect on conditions of the upper respiratory tract, for nasal or bronchial congestion, sinusitis, sinus headaches and practically all symptoms associated with colds and flu. It is an excellent room aroma for clearing the air in sick rooms as it will kill most of the bacteria in the air. It also lowers fever and in combination with Lavender can be very effective in the treatment of chickenpox. It is very cooling and can be used to draw the heat from inflammations. It is also a powerful insect repellent and soothes the itch of insect bites. Eucalyptus is also very useful for treating muscle aches and pains, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, neuralgia and weakness. Emotionally, it clears and cools the head and is useful when emotions are 'boiling over'.

Magical
Eucalyptus is excellent for purification of ritual tools and ceremonial spaces. It can be used in healing rituals to banish the demons of disease and to purify the sick room. It is a cooling and calming oil, which clears all negative energies and cleanses the atmosphere. Good for clearing the air after an argument.

Scent
A fresh, camphor-like, slightly balsamic scent. Blends well with Lemon, Melissa, Pine Lavender, Juniper and Immortelle (Helichrysum).

Synonyms
Narrow leaved eucalyptus.

Country of origin
Australia