Botanical name Eucalyptus Globulus
Family Myrtaceae
Source Woods and Leaves
Origin China
Processing Method Steam Distillation
Color/Consistency A thin, clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid.
Aromatic Summary / Note / Strength of Aroma A top note with a strong aroma, Eucalyptus Blue Mallee has a fresh, camphoraceous aroma with a faint peppermint undertone.
Blends With Basil, Cajeput, Cedarwood, Citronella, Lavender, Lemon, Myrtle, Frankincense, Spearmint and Tea Tree.
Product Abstract
Eucalyptus actually refers to a large genus of flowering trees that has over 700 different species, most of which are located in Australia and New Zealand, although some of the more widespread species can be found throughout Southeast Asia. Most of its species range from the size of a small shrub to a medium-sized flowering tree, but all species have leaves that are covered in oil glands, from which the majority of the health benefits are derived.
History
California. In the 1850s, Eucalyptus trees were introduced to California by Australians during the California Gold Rush. Much of California has a similar climate to parts of Australia. By the early 1900s, thousands of acres of eucalypts were planted with the encouragement of the state government. It was hoped that they would provide a renewable source of timber for construction, furniture making and railroad ties. It was soon found that for the latter purpose eucalyptus was particularly unsuitable, as the ties made from eucalyptus had a tendency to twist while drying, and the dried ties were so tough that it was nearly impossible to hammer rail spikes into them.
Harvesting/Extraction Information
Eucalyptus essential oil is readily Steam Distillation from the leaves and can be used for cleaning and as an industrial solvent, as an antiseptic, for deodorising, and in very small quantities in food supplements, especially sweets, cough drops,toothpaste and decongestants. It has insect repellent properties (Jahn 1991 a, b; 1992), and is an active ingredient in some commercial mosquito repellents. Eucalyptus globulus is the principal source of eucalyptus oil worldwide.
Common Usage
Caution
As mentioned above, Eucalyptus Essential oil is extremely potent and is actually poisonous in its undiluted form, particularly for young children. Always consult a medical professional before adding it in any form to your diet in a substantial way and monitor your body’s reactions. The powerful effects of eucalyptus can be intense and are not recommended for everyone.
Key constituents
1,8-Cineole 65.4–83.9%
a-Pinene 3.7–14.7%
(þ)-Limonene 1.8–9.0%
Globulol tr– 5.3%
(E)-Pinocarveol 2.3–4.4%
p-Cymene 1.2–3.5%
(þ)-Aromadendrene 0.1–2.2%
Pinocarvone tr-1.0%
Quality Because of their low price, 1,8-cineole type eucalyptus oils are not generally adulterated.
Hazards Essential oils high in 1,8-cineole can cause CNS and breathing problems in young children.
Contraindications Do not apply to or near the face of infants or children under ten years of age.
Maximum adult daily oral dose 600 mg
Maximum dermal use level 20%
Our safety advice
We agree with the Commission E oral maximum dose of 600 mg and up to 20% for dermal applications.
Regulatory guidelines
Health Canada requires that eucalyptus oil should be used at no more than 25% in cosmetic products. Eucalyptus oil is classed as a ‘Schedule 6’ poison in Australia.
Organ-specific effects
Systemic effects
Comments
Wehave seen no research that would support the Commission E contraindications which are presumably based on the 1,8-cineole content, since they are also applied to cineole-rich niaouli oil. Oral 1,8-cineole was not hepatotoxic in rats at doses of up to 800 mg/kg/day for three days, and a single dose of 400 mg/kg significantly protected against chemically induced hepatotoxicity in mice.
