Which Eucalyptus essential oil should I choose?

Which Eucalyptus essential oil should I choose?

Eucalyptus, nicknamed the "fever tree", has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for its purifying virtues, particularly before the onset of winter. There are some 600 species of eucalyptus, used for a variety of purposes, including the production of honey, wood, chewing gum and essential oils.

Despite this diversity, all eucalypts share common characteristics: they belong to the myrtaceae botanical family, with oval, evergreen, green to bluish leaves that give off a specific scent when crumpled.


Eucalyptus essential oil and aromatherapy

Eucalyptus essential oil is obtained by distilling the tree's leaves and twig tips. It takes about 1 kilo of leaves to obtain 20 ml of essential oil. Different varieties of eucalyptus offer essential oils with specific properties, widely used in aromatherapy.


Here are the 4 most commonly used eucalyptus essential oils:

  • Eucalyptus radiata (or Eucalyptus radiata)essential oil

  • Eucalyptus globulus essential oil (or Eucalyptus globulus, also known as "blue gum")

  • Eucalyptus citronné (Eucalyptus citriodora)essential oil

  • Eucalyptus polybractea (or Cryptone Eucalyptus)essential oil


Importance of Eucalyptus oil specificities

Each variety of eucalyptus contains distinct biochemical components, influencing its properties and uses in aromatherapy. These differences also determine contraindications. So it's essential to know the specifics of each essential oil before using it.

Eucalyptus radiata

Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus citronné

Eucalyptus polybractea

Botanical name

 Eucalyptus radiata Eucalyptus globulus Eucalyptus citriodora

Eucalyptus polybractea

Main
components

 1.8 cineole 65%,
a-terpineol, citrals		 1.8 cineole 70%, globulol,
pinocarvéol (Spain)
alpha-pinene (Portugal)		 Citronnellal.
The only eucalyptus
without eucalyptol

1,8-cineole,
ketones
Origin Australia Australia, Spain, Portugal, China Madagascar Australia



Main properties

Indications in Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus radiata

essential oil for the upper respiratory tract, spheresORL, anti-catarrhal, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, immunostimulant.

Sinusitis, rhinitis, otitis, bronchitis, flu, hacking cough, conjunctivitis, air freshener. Asthenia.

Eucalyptus globulus

Lower respiratory tract essential oil, bronchopulmonary sphere, anti-infectious, antiseptic, respiratory, anti-catarrhal, mucolytic, expectorant (lung drying), anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic.

Bronchitis, lower pulmonary pathologies, rhinopharyngitis.

Lemon eucalyptus

Anti-inflammatory, rheumatic, analgesic, muscle relaxant, mosquito repellent.

Arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, tendonitis, mosquito bites.

Eucalyptus polybractea

Essential oil for the ORL and urinary spheres, powerful anti-infectant, anti-parasitic (amoebae).

 Rhinopharyngitis, bronchitis.
Gynecological or urinary tract infections.
Intestinal parasitosis.
Arthritis, arthrosis, rheumatism.
Malaria.


Eucalyptus essential oil - Daily use

Eucalyptus essential oils can be easily integrated into your daily life, but their use varies according to each type of oil. Each eucalyptus essential oil has specific characteristics that must be respected. Some are more suitable for diffusion, while others require special precautions, particularly for cutaneous application.

  • Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus citronné: Ideal for atmospheric diffusion. Their soft, pleasant scent purifies the air and creates a soothing atmosphere. You can easily diffuse them in a room to purify the atmosphere or promote relaxation.

  • Eucalyptus globulus: This oil is more powerful and can be irritating when used pure for diffusion. We recommend diluting it with another essential oil (such as lemon) before diffusion. On the other hand, it is perfect for massages, provided it is diluted in a vegetable oil to avoid skin irritation.

  • Eucalyptus polybractea: Rich in ketones, this oil presents neurotoxic and abortifacient risks in high doses. It should therefore only be used with a prescription or on the advice of a doctor or aromatherapist. It is best applied by massage, always diluted in a vegetable oil to avoid undesirable effects.


Precautions for use

  • Pregnant or breast-feeding women, epileptics and children under 6: Eucalyptus essential oils are not recommended for these populations.

  • Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus citronné: No known contraindications at recommended physiological doses.

  • Eucalyptus globulus: contraindicated for infants, young children, asthmatics and sensitive individuals.

  • Eucalyptus polybractea: Neurotoxic and abortive at high doses. Use only on medical advice.

  • Before use, it is essential to carefully read the specific precautions for use of each essential oil. Always consult a health professional in case of doubt.

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