Eucalyptus globulus        Common name:  Eucalyptus

Family:  Myrtaceae

Parts used:  Leaves

Constituents:  volatile oil (up to 3.5%):  eucalyptol is the major component, polyphenolic acids, flavonoids.

Medicinal actions:  Antiseptic, antispasmodic, expectorant, stimulant, febrifuge.

Medicinal uses:  Eucalyptus oil is used most often in the form of a steam inhalation.  When inhaled into the respiratory passages, spasm is reduced. Eucalyptus is a relaxing expectorant and promotes drainage from congested sinuses.  The volatile oil is also antiseptic , indicated in respiratory and sinus infections.

Pharmacy: Steam inhalant (2-5 drops oil/2-3 cups water). Topical rub mix essential with carrier oil:  Eucalyptus 1: Carrier oil 10.

Toxicity:  Eucalyptus oil is toxic if taken internally, potentially causing kidney irritation and damage (the organ through which the majority of the oil is excreted) and eventually causing CNS depression and respiratory paralysis.