Eucalyptus: Australia's Marvelous Medicine

By: Venus Enock

Koalas are not the only beings that reap the benefits of eucalyptus. There are about 300 varieties of eucalyptus globules, a tree native to mainland Australia and Tasmania. With so many varieties it is one of Australia's most distinguishing flora.

Characteristics of the Eucalyptus Tree

Leaves of the eucalyptus are leathery to the touch, and hang obliquely or vertically from the stem of the plant. The leaves feature glands that secrete fragrant volatile oils. These oils are used for various medicinal purposes.

The blossoms of the eucalyptus are covered in a cup-like membrane when in bud. In fact, the plant's name can be translated to "well-covered." When the flower expands and is fully in bloom, the bud membranes are discarded, like a lid. Eucalyptus fruits are encompassed by woody, cup-shaped receptacles that contain many tiny seeds.

Eucalyptus trees grow rapidly. Many of its species grow to a height of 480 feet, surpassing even that of the California giant sequoia. Eucalyptus trees render timber but they are all the more valuable for the oil they produce. The oils derived from eucalyptus leaves are roughly divided into three classes of commercial significance: the medicinal oils, the industrial oils, and the aromatic oils.

Therapeutic Oil

Oil is removed from eucalyptus leaves by aqueous distillation. It is a colorless or straw-colored liquid material with a characteristic odor and taste and soluble in its own weight of alcohol. Likely the most powerful antiseptic of its class, eucalyptus oil has decided disinfectant action. It is most potent when it's aged and it can destroy the lower forms of life.

The most important component of eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol. E. globulus species contains up to 70 percent eucalyptol, making it a capable disinfectant.

Eucalyptus oil acts as a typical volatile oil to a remarkable degree when taken internally. As a stimulant, it's sometimes used as an antiseptic gargle. Locally applied, eucalyptus oil can increase cardiac action and diminish sensibility. Eucalyptus has some antiseptic properties that may have some response against malaria, although it is not as powerful as cinchona, a more traditional anti-malarial remedy.

Two of the significant effects of eucalyptus are its role in balancing and stimulation. Its middle note aroma, suggestive of camphorous or woody scents makes it an important ingredient in aroma therapy and as a nasal inhalant. Eucalyptus has several medicinal properties, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, and stimulant.

Eucalyptus can be put to use as an air disinfectant and a decongestant. It is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, treat burns, cuts, influenza, and headaches. The powerful aroma of eucalyptus acts as an effective insect repellant. It may also treat muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, skin ulcers, urinary infections, and wounds.

Eucalyptus Steam Inhalations

Steam inhalation permits hot, moist air to enter the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus is widely regarded for its decongestant properties. By using the oil as a steam inhalation, your nasal passages and sinuses can be unblocked.

Prepare a eucalyptus steam inhalation by gathering the following materials: a kettle with boiling water, eucalyptus oil, a sheet or large towel and a sizable bowl or container.

When you've assembled all of the materials, carefully pour about four to six cups of boiling water into the large bowl. Mix in three drops of eucalyptus oil. Place your head over the bowl with your eyes cast downward and your face shielded by the sheet or towel. Close your eyes and inhale deeply and slowly. Continue breathing in the eucalyptus vapors until your nasal passages are cleared, about fifteen minutes.

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

Contributor Venus Enock is a writer for several well-known Internet magazines, on alternative health care and natural health products issues.
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