Description:Eucalyptus is a tall, evergreen tree native to Australia and Tasmania. Among its various species, the blue gum is the one commonly grown in the U.S. The trunk, which grows to 300 feet high or more, is covered with peeling papery bark. The leaves on the young plant, up to 5 years old, are opposite, sessile, soft, oblong, pointed, and a hoary blue color. The mature leaves are alternate, petioled, leathery, and shaped like a scimitar. The flowers are solitary, axillary, and white, with no petals and a woody calyx. The fruit is a hard, four-celled, many-seeded capsule enclosed in the calyx cup.

A traditional Aboriginal fever remedy, Eucalyptus was introduced to the West in the 19th century by the director of the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, and cultivation of the tree spread in southern Europe and North America. The properties of oils from different species vary slightly, but all are very antiseptic. Other species used for oil production include E.polybracteata and E. smithii , Russian research suggests that some species counteract influenza viruses; others are antimalarial or highly bactericidal. The tree's amazing ability to dry out marshy soil led to its use in eradicating the malaria mosquito in many parts of the world.

Main constituents: Volatile oil, the major component of which is l,8-cineole (=eucalyptol), 70-85%; with terpineole, a-pinene, p-cymene and small amounts of sesquiterpenes such as ledol, aromadendrene and viridoflorol; aldehydes, ketones and alcohols, Polyphenolic acids; caffeic, ferulic, gallic, protocatechuic and others, Flavonoids including eucalyptin, hyperoside and rutin.

Properties: Antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, deodorant, expectorant, stimulant, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, febrifuge, diaphoretic

Uses: Steam inhalation of a few leaves is used to clear upper respiratory congestion.

Leaf infusions are used internally for colds, sore throats, bronchial congestion, fevers, and chills.

Compresses from essential oils are applied to inflammations, painful joints, and burns.

Gargles made from essential oil and water are effective against throat infections.

Chest rubs from a dilution of essential oil into a neutral oil are used to treat colds, bronchitis, asthma, and influenza.

Essential oil is used in aromatherapy; and a few drops in a neutral oil or ointment base is used to treat cold sores.

Massage oil made by adding essential oil to rosemary oil or infused bladderwrack or almond oil to treat arthritic or rheumatic pain.

Poultices and washes made from the leaves have long been used by Aborginal tribes for any type of wound or inflammation.

Powders can be dusted on infected skin, wounds, and ulcerations as needed.

Lozenges are taken for sore throats.

Capsules are conveniently used for bronchitis.

Nasal sprays can be used to clear sinus congestion. To make: Mix 30 drops of tincture or 5 drops essential oil in 30 ml/1 oz. distilled water and used as needed.

A douche from a weak infusion can be used to treat vaginal infections.

Safety Considerations: Although various decoctions were used by Aboriginal healers, it is not recommended today. In large doses, eucalyptus is toxic. As little as 3.5 ml of oil can kill. It should not be confused with camphor oil. Infants and small children should not have preparations containing the oil applied to their faces as this can lead to glottal or bronchial spasms, asthmalike attacks, or even death by asphyxiation. Eucalyptus should not be used by individuals with inflamed gastrointestinal tracts or bile ducts, or with liver disease.

Magical:

Folk Names: Blue Gum Tree, Stringy Bark Tree

Gender: Feminine

Planet:Water

Powers: Protection, Healing

Uses: Carry the leaves for protection. Stuff healing poppets with the leaves and carry it to maintain good health.

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