Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus Essential Oil)
There are surprisingly several hundred species of eucalyptus, with many being used to extract essential oils. In aromatherapy, one of the best-known eucalyptus essential oils is Eucalyptus globulus, a medicinal essential oil with many excellent health benefits. I will concentrate on Eucalyptus globulus in this post.
A strong, medicinal aroma prevails with this essential oil - eucalyptol/cineol is the main chemical ingredient, and this chemical ingredient is one of the main ones used in cough suppressants.
The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation using fresh or partially dried leaves and young twigs.
Eucalyptus globulus is a relatively safe oil to use, but it is recommended to use it in low concentrations in a blend to avoid skin sensitivity. Avoid during pregnancy, use on young children, if on homeopathic medicine, or if you experience epilepsy. Eucalyptus essential oil is highly toxic if ingested.
Read on for some of the therapeutic benefits of basil essential oil...
Benefits
Anti-inflammatory***
Healing for skin infections, wounds, insect bites, and burns.
Helps ease muscular and joint aches and pains and headaches.
Respiratory support - it is an expectorant, thus helping to ease coughs and catarrh as well as supportive for asthma, sinusitis, and sore throats.
Supports the immune system during the cold winter months.
Stimulating, good for fatigue, lethargy, and a heavy mind.
Fun fact - the dried leaves were apparently traditionally smoked in Australia for asthma (I'm not advocating that you try this at home!).
Blends Well With
Lavender, marjoram, rosemary, pine, thyme, lemon, cedarwood.
Allergens
A low percentage of limonene.
Recipe Suggestion - Pre-Exercise Massage Oil
In 20ml base oil (you can use any, but I suggest sweet almond, jojoba, coconut, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed etc) add the following essential oils and mix well:
1 drop peppermint (Mentha piperita)
2 drops grapefruit (Citrus paradisii)
1 drop eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
2 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
1 drop ginger (Zingiber officinalis)
Rub the oil into relevant areas of the body before your workout (eg on the legs if going out for a run).
Essential Oil Safety:
Always read the EO safety guidance which should accompany your purchased bottle
Always dilute before use (seek advice for recommended quantities)
Avoid contact with the eyes/mucous membranes
Do not use essential oils if pregnant without seeking advice
Do not use on children younger than 5 without seeking advice
Use lower dilutions for children/elderly
Ensure pets can leave the room if diffusing essential oils (they might not like the aroma as much as you do)
Keep out of reach of children and pets
If you have any medical conditions seek advice
Never ingest
Stop use immediately if you experience a reaction - inform your therapist and seek medical advice
If you are asthmatic or have any other lung condition, test your body response by smelling the caps of each oil before using to ensure the oils do not cause sensitivity.
Avoid during pregnancy. Do not use on children under 3. Use caution if you have very sensitive skin. Avoid if epileptic or taking homeopathic medicine.
References:
*** Eucalyptus oil reduces allergic reactions and suppresses mast cell degranulation by downregulating IgE-FcεRI signalling" Sci Rep. 2020; 10: 20940. Published online 2020 Dec 1. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-77039-5 [accessed 23/11/2023]
"Essential Oil Safety" by Robert Tisserand - E-book published by Elsevier Health Sciences
"The Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils" by Julia Lawless - Updated Edition (2014) published by Harper Thorsons
"The Introductory Guide to Aromatherapy" by Louise Tucker (Revised Edition) published by EMS Publishing
Base Formula Website - Eucalyptus (Globulus) Essential oil (accessed 20/11/2023)
Get in touch if you'd like to smell any of the oils in my collection, create a bespoke blend, or book an Aromatherapy massage, hot stone treatment, or holistic facial.
Medical Disclaimer - The above information is intended for educational purposes only, and is not to be taken as an endorsement or replacement for any particular medical health treatment. Please check with your health provider before embarking on any type of herbal treatment.
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