Eucalyptus

Disclaimer: This information is in no way intended to be a substitute for modern medical care. Do not self-treat any medical complaint without the guidance of a licensed health care provider.

Native to Australia, the eucalyptus tree now grows in Europe and North America. The antiseptic eucalyptus, a traditional aboriginal remedy, is today used throughout the world in treating colds and infections. It's also a familiar ingredient in cough medicines.

Plant Facts
An evergreen member of the myrtle family, the eucalyptus tree can grow to a height of 100 feet. Its narrow, slightly curved leaves have a strong, recognizable odor and slightly bitter taste. The Australian eucalyptus woodlands are the habitat and main diet of the koala bear (article with picture here: http://www.seaworld.org/animal_bytes/koa... ).

Origin
Today the eucalyptus is grown in the tropical, subtropical and temperate areas of Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Parts Used
The medicinal, antiseptic eucalyptus oil is obtained from the plant's leathery leaves. In aboriginal medicine the leaves were often used as poultices for wounds and infections.

Components
Eucalyptus essential oil is comprised primarily of the cooling element cineol, which liquifies mucus. Eucalyptus oil is antiviral, as well as antibacterial. Plus, the leaves of the eucalyptus tree contain large quantities of tannin, which acts as an astringent on body tissue.

Indications
Eucalyptus is the remedy of choice for chest colds, coughs and bronchitis. It loosens mucus and has a slight disinfectant and antispasmodic effect. Liniments containing eucalyptus oil are very helpful for rheumatism and nerve pain, thanks to the oil's analgesic and cooling properties.
Do not take eucalyptus preparations if you have inflammatory gastrointestinal or gallbladder disorders or liver problems. Eucalyptus oil may reduce the effectiveness of medications you are taking. It affects the enzymes that break down foreign substances in the liver. In addition, eucalyptus is too strong for children younger than two years.

Methods of Administration

Inhalation
For mucus in the respiratory tract, add 3-5 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 qt. of simmering water and inhale for about 15 minutes under a towel, alternately breathing through the mouth and nose. Be sure to keep your eyes closed. Afterward, clean your face well with a damp cloth.

Eucalyptus Oil
For a cough, add 3 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 tsp. of vegetable oil. Rub the mixture on the chest then cover with a cotton cloth. Leave in place 30 minutes.
Caution: Like other essential oils, eucalyptus oil can cause allergic reactions in some people. Also, don't rub your eyes after applying.

Labeled Products
A number of over the counter medications for both internal and external use contain eucalyptus oil. Examples include liniments, vapor rubs, cough drops, inhalants, acne treatments, toothpaste and mouthwash. Eucalyptus and its warm and stimulating scent can also be found in many soaps and detergents.

Medicinal Uses

Migraine Headaches
In a 1994 study on headaches, the essential oils of peppermint and eucalyptus relaxed both mind and muscles. When these herbs were diluted in alcohol, then sponged on the foreheads of study participants, both greatly reduced sensitivity to headaches.
One interesting technique that short-circuits a vascular headache, such as a migraine, is to regulate circulation by raising the temperature of the hands by 15°. Simply place your hands in hot (but not too hot) water and add a couple drops of lavender, eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to the water to increase its effect.

Sinus Congestion
Sinus congestion can stem from many different problems, but viral or bacterial infection, allergy and irritation from airborne substances are the most common causes. Some of the best herbal treatments for chronic sinus problems are yarrow, elder flowers and peppermint. Yarrow and elder flowers reduce inflamed sinuses and, along with peppermint, help drain them.
For quick relief, thin congestion with eucalyptus, peppermint and bergamot. These essential oils can be combined with steam to help you breath easier. If steaming herbs is not practical, then carry an herbal nasal inhaler. These are available in natural food and drugstores, or you can make your own.

Homemade Nasal Inhaler

¼ tsp. coarse salt
5 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Place the salt in a small vial (glass is best) with a tight lid and add oil. The salt will absorb the oil and provide a convenient way to carry the oil without danger of spilling it. Open the vial and inhale deeply, as needed. This same technique can be used with any essential oil.

Chest Congestion
If you read the label on any commercial vapor balm, you will notice that it contains components of many antiseptic essential oils, including thymol (from thyme), menthol (from mint) and eucalyptol (from eucalyptus). You can buy a commercial balm that contains these essential oils at the natural food store or you can make your own.

Vapor Rub

¼ tsp. eucalyptus essential oil
1/8 tsp. peppermint essential oil
1/8 tsp. thyme essential oil
¼ cup olive oil

Combine ingredients in a glass bottle. Shake well. Gently massage onto chest and throat. Once you have applied the vapor rub, you can increase its warmth and action by laying a warm piece of flannel on the chest.

Magickal Information

Folk Names: Blue Gum Tree, Stringy Bark Tree
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Powers: Healing, Protection
Magical Uses:

The leaves are used to stuff healing poppets and are carried to maintain good health. To relieve colds, ring green candles with leaves and pods (picture here: http://okeydokey.gq.nu/cgi-bin/i/images/... ) and burn them to the socket, visualizing the person (or yourself) as being completely healthy. Also hang a small branch or twig of eucalyptus over the sick bed.
String the immature (green) pods on green thread and wear to help heal sore throats.
Placed beneath the pillow, the pods guard against colds.
The leaves are carried for protection.

Confidentiality Statement: (for anyone who does not respect copyright and/or is confused regarding this issue) The information, data and schematics embodied in the document are confidential and proprietary, being exclusively owned by Ellen J. Lord (aka Purpleflame or Firefly). This document is being supplied on understanding that it and its contents shall not be used, reproduced, or disclosed to others except as specifically permitted with the prior written consent of Ellen J. Lord. The recipient of this document, by its retention and use, agrees to protect the same from loss, theft, or unauthorized use.

Sources:
All information provided in this article is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: Herbs for Health and Healing, Rodale; Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham; Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham; The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers; Earthway, Mary Summer Rain; Teach Yourself Herbs, Susie White; Natural Beauty from the Garden, Janice Cox; Nature's Prescriptions, Editors of FC&A Medical Publishing, and The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies, Joe Graedon and Theresa Graedon, Ph.D