Condition
Treatment Support
decongestant, antibacterial
Application
tea, oil
Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus globulus)
Also know as Blue gum
Botanical Information
A tall evergreen tree with large bands of shedding bark and bluish green and very aromatic leaves. Originally from Tasmania, the trees are commonly planted in California and other areas of the world as windbreaks.
Working with Eucalyptus
Part(s) Used
Leaf, oil
Herb Forms
Essential oil, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Eucalyptus leaves or oil are often employed in steam inhalations for their expectorant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and decongestant properties. A tea from the leaves has been used traditionally for aching joints, muscle stiffness, dysentery, and ringworm. Eucalyptus oil is given internally, in small doses (only 1-2 drops), most often as an ingredient in cough medicines or lozenges. The oil is also used as a natural flea repellant. Eucalyptus oil steam inhalations are often beneficial for chronic coughs and plugged sinuses.
Eucalyptus has a taste of SPICY and a temperature of WARM.”
Historical Uses
Eucalyptus has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in Australia, where Indigenous people used it for treating wounds, fevers, and infections. It later became popular in traditional medicine worldwide, often as an antiseptic and for respiratory ailments.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists & Naturopaths
Today, eucalyptus oil is used by herbalists and naturopaths primarily as a decongestant, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory agent. It is applied topically for muscle pain relief, inhaled for respiratory issues, and sometimes used in lozenges and teas to relieve coughs and sore throats. It is also commonly included in personal care products for its fresh scent and antibacterial properties.
Chemistry
The main active component of eucalyptus oil is 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which has expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Other compounds in eucalyptus include flavonoids, tannins, and additional terpenes that contribute to its therapeutic effects.
Pharmacology
1,8-Cineole has been shown to reduce inflammation, act as an antioxidant, and provide mucolytic (mucus-thinning) effects in the respiratory tract. It may also inhibit bacterial and viral growth, aiding in the treatment of infections. Eucalyptus oil can penetrate the skin, making it effective for localized pain relief when used topically.
Clinical Trials Summary
Some clinical trials have shown that 1,8-cineole can be effective in reducing symptoms of sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma. Evidence also supports its antimicrobial action against certain bacteria and fungi, though more research is needed to confirm broader therapeutic applications.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
When used properly, eucalyptus is generally safe, but it must be diluted as it can cause skin irritation or toxicity if ingested in large amounts. Eucalyptus oil is not recommended for infants, young children, or pregnant women due to potential toxicity.
Contraindicated in inflammatory diseases of the bile ducts and gastrointestinal tract and in liver disease.
Oral preparations should follow specific dosing instructions, typically under professional guidance.
Conditions treated with Eucalyptus
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
flea repellant
Application
oil externally
Condition
Treatment Support
insect repellant
Application
use diluted oil externally; commercial sprays contain this herb
Condition
Treatment Support
decongestant
Application
oil, diluted as an inhalant
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
