Eucalyptus Essential Oil, Radiata

Botanical Name: Eucalyptus radiata

A relatively smaller variety of this evergreen species, the 'narrow leaf peppermint' Eucalyptus is native to Southwestern Australia and only reaches a maximum height of 50 meters.

This oil is light weight, clear, and slightly blue-tinted. It is steam-distilled from the leaves of organically cultivated South African trees. While Eucalyptus generally originated in Australia, there was a great effort to transplant many of the varieties (Blue Gum, Dives, Citradora, etc...) to South Africa in the 1980's. The trees did spectacularly well, and their essential oil is of the highest quality.This oil is cooling with fresh, bright citrus-like top notes, a camphoraceous middle note and slightly sweet, cedar-like undertones.

It blends well with Thyme, Rosemary, Lavender, Marjoram, Pine Cedarwood and Lemon.

A common household remedy in Australia, the primary use of Eucalyptus essential oil is to support respiration by clearing any blockages or congestion. The oil and leaves of Eucalyptus are a traditional folk remedy in Australia: the leaves being smoked like tobacco to improve asthmatic conditions. It is also an effective insect repellent.

It has also been used to treat infectious conditions accompanied by fever, including cholera, malaria, and typhoid.

Analgesic, Antineralgic, Antirheumatic, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Cicatrisant, Decongestant, Deodorant, Depurative, Diuretic, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Hypoglycemic, Paracitide, Prophylactic, Rubefacient, Stimulant, Vermifuge, Vulnerary. (See Definitions.)

Immune System:

A recent study revealed the stimulating effect Eucalyptus oil has on the immune system. The oil worked to enhance the actions of white blood cells. This demonstrated one of the unique ways essential oils support human health - not through direct action as an antibacterial or antiviral (though this oil does demonstrate these effects) - rather it dramatically stimulated the phagocytic response of macrophage cells, meaning it enhanced their activity of attacking and destroying foreign pathogens in the bloodstream.

Respiratory System:

• Opens the bronchial area and encourages oxygen uptake; may be beneficial for asthma
• Aids in expelling mucus, and may be a supportive remedy for coughs, colds and all bronchial conditions
• The antibacterial properties benefit sinusitis, sore throat, and bronchitis

Muscles & Joints:

• Helps relieve sore joints
• Quells pain from rheumatism, and arthritis pain
• Sooths sore muscles and minor sprains

Inhalation:

• When diffused, Eucalyptus oil can kill much of the staphylococcus bacteria in a room, assisting in bacterial-mediated bronchial illness.
• Eucalyptus and Pine oils added to a spray bottle of water can also be used to disinfect room air - a cold-air nebulizer or adding the oil to a humidifier can do the same.
• Add a few drops of essential oil to a steaming bowl of water; The heat from the water vaporizes the oil, and inhaling the moist, aromatic air clears the airways, supporting deeper breathing.
• Excellent for cooling the body; add 5 or so drops per ounce of water in a spray bottle and enjoy the mist on a hot day.

Topical:

• The oil can be massaged onto the chest and throat to support the opening action and promoting inhalation.
• For fever reduction, a cold compress of Eucalyptus Oil and cold water can be applied to the legs.
• Addition of oil with Epsom salts can aid with sore muscles and aching joints
• When combined with Bergamot Oil, Eucalyptus Radiata Oil has been claimed effective on herpes simplex outbreaks

Externally non-toxic and when in water dilution Eucalyptus oil is a non-sensitizing non-irritant. NOT FOR INTERNAL USE; ingestion of as little as 3.5ml has been reported fatal. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, consultation with a physician is recommended.