PART 2. THE HERBS
EUCALYPTUS
EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS
Eucalyptus gets its name from its powerful active ingredient, eucalyptol, which makes up about 70 percent of its compounds. It has effective anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, and disinfectant properties. Its woodsy oils make a potent aromatherapy tool for balancing and stimulating the mind, body, and emotions, as well as healing viral infections and respiratory conditions. Using the herb for steam inhalation is also fantastic for clearing out the lungs, opening nasal passages, and treating sinuses.
Did You Know?
With more than 300 species and 700 different varieties, eucalyptus has been a favorite among healers for centuries. Aborigines used it to disinfect wounds, lessen pain, and drive down fevers. The tree has also been a mainstay of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Taken at the onset of colds, fever, flu, sinusitis, bronchitis, or other infections, it’s said to speed healing and shorten sickness.
Herbal Power
MEDICINAL: Treats infections, fever, osteoarthritis, joint pain, upset stomach, coughs, liver and gallbladder issues, ulcers, burns, respiratory problems, asthma, wounds, ulcers, depression; repels insects.
COSMETIC: Fights acne.
Application Methods
•Apply as an ointment, gel, salve, compress, oil, or splash
Precautions
Eucalyptus should be diluted before applying topically to skin. If you’ve got diabetes, note that eucalyptus has been shown in studies to lower blood sugar.
Other Names
Blue Gum
Fever Tree
Gully Gum
Red Gum
Stringy Bark Tree
Locating & Growing
Growing eucalyptus indoors is easy and quite common. It needs full sunlight and well-drained soil. Keep temps between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re planting outdoors, heads up that this tree won’t reach its full height potential unless you live in a warm climate.