Of the more than 600 species of eucalyptus currently identified, fewer than 4% are farmed for herbal or aromatherapy uses. The 3 species readily available in the US are Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus citriadora.

Eucalyptus is distilled from leaves that are either freshly picked or slightly dried.

Traditional Herbal Uses

Perhaps eucalyptus is best known as a nasal decongestant. Adding eucalyptus to hot water then inhaling the steam is a folk remedy that goes back millennia. But eucalyptus is actually used extensively in herbal medicine for other purposes as well.

Herbalists claim that eucalyptus is a potent insect repellent and several aromatherapy books offer specific formulas for homemade mosquito sprays.

Eucalyptus (properly diluted in a carrier) is sometimes prescribed as a liniment. Additionally, it is sometimes recommended in cases of minor burns and blisters as well as small wound care.

Some studies have suggested that eucalyptus is a potent anti-microbial but others have shown little to to anti-microbial activity. (Remember, most aromatherapy books are "crafting" books that simply re-phrase other authors' material. Before you rely on any essential oil for its alleged therapeutic effects check with a reliable science-based source.)

In Chinese medicine, eucalyptus is used to move lunch Qi and is considered a remedy for wind-heat.

Aromatherapy Uses

Eucalyptus has an extremely "medicinal" scent and perhaps that's why it's often prescribed for use in sick rooms. It imparts a moist, cooling sensation to nose.

Eucalyptus is used by aromatherapists to revitalize and energize. It's also used to "clear" a room and is often diffused in a home to cleanse the building of a previous family's energy.

Blending With Other Essential Oils

Eucalyptus has a biting medicinal scent that is usually used as a single-note oil due to its ability to overpower other essential oils. In very small amounts it can sharpen the scent of woody oils like cedar or fir; it is also frequently added to lavender or tea tee.

Eucalyptus is considered a top-note.

Safety & Warnings

Though legally defined as a poison in some countries, eucalyptus is generally (though not without controversy) considered safe when used topically or diffused for aromatherapy.