Essential oil – Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus globules
Eucalyptus is a native species of Australia and Tasmania but is now grown in many countries throughout the world. The plant has a characteristic pungent odor, and the oil obtained from it has disinfectant and antiseptic properties, clears the nasal passages and acts as a painkiller. The leaves and twigs are subjected to a process of steam distillation in order to obtain the essential oil used in aromatherapy. The diluted oil is used for muscular and rheumatic aches and pains, skin disorders such as ringworm, insect bites, headaches and neuralgia, shingles, respiratory and bronchitic infections and fevers. Eucalyptus is used in many household products and in remedies for coughs and colds. Its analgesic properties are often used to ease the discomfort of shingles, chicken pox and herpes as well as to soothe muscular aches and sprains.
Caution: when diluted, eucalyptus is safe to use externally, but can be fatal if taken internally.
