Some 15 species of this tall evergreen tree yield a useful essential oil. They include Eucalyptus citriadoria and E. radiate, as well as E. globulus. The leaves and oil of the plant have long been a household remedy in Australia, where the Aborigines, who know it as “kino”, use it to dress wounds. The young trees, which have round, bluish leaves, are valued by florists and gardeners. As the plants mature the foliage becomes long, narrow, and yellowish in colour. The flowers are white and the smooth bark is often covered with a white powder.

Applications and Effects

General use: Useful in congested and toxic states. Particularly effective for muscular aches, bronchitis, colds, coughs, sinusitis, and throat infections.

  • Skin: Insect bites, insect repellent.
  • Circulatory and muscular systems: Poor circulation, arthritis.
  • Reproductive and excretory systems: Cystitis, diarrhoea.
  • Immune system: Flu, fevers.
  • Nervous system: Headaches.
  • Mental, emotional effects: This oil has a deeply grounding quality, which can help cool overheated emotions. Its cleansing and harmonizing nature makes it useful for places where there has been emotional or physical conflict, and for places that just feel uncomfortable. It may also aid concentration.

Precautions

Safe for external use, although some people may find it irritates the skin. Not to be taken internally.