EUCALYPTUS LEAVES

Eucalyptus globulus

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 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. 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 well known for its excellent cooling and relaxant properties, which are utilised to treat common coughs, cold and flu type symptoms. Eucalyptus is strongly anti-bacterial and is excellent for clearing congestion from the upper respiratory tract when added to a steam inhalation. Usually it is the essential oil that is used medicinally, but the herb may also be used. It can be brewed into a tea for bronchitis or for very deeply entrenched coughs the tincture is recommended. Gargling with Eucalyptus soothes a sore throat. For further medicinal uses of Eucalyptus oil see Essential oil of Eucalyptus.

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. Its pungent sweet cleansing scent clears all negative energies and purifies the atmosphere if added to an incense blend. Good for clearing the air after an argument.