Variety of Eucalyptus Essential Oils

The uses of Eucalyptus are very vast and wide-ranging because there are so many species that have medicinal properties.
Traditionally, Eucalyptus species have been used for insect repellent, respiratory infections and mouth washes. 

The Australian Aborigines have used the leaves to disinfect wounds and treat infections for thousands of years.

Rainbow Eucalyptus

Unfortunately with the broad uses and abundance of species comes some confusion and even exploitation of the consumer. 

This is similar to the problems often encountered with other popular essential oils such as cinnamon essential oil and the Melaleuca species. 

Therefore, it is up to us as consumers and oil users to have an understanding of the plant and the oil so we can use the oils safely and correctly.

Why is There so Much Confusion about Eucalyptus:
With over 700 species of eucalyptus, as well as chemotypes, common names and different parts of the plant being marketed.

And on top of it, most companies are labeling the oil all under the genus of Eucalyptus. 

That is confusing and misleading to the consumer.

What is a Chemotype:

A chemotype (CT) is a designation that tells you that the species has different chemical constituents. This usually occurs because the plant is grown in a different area under a distinct climate that alters the chemistry. 

The perfume varieties mostly contain citronellal, while the medicinal varieties contain what we want - 1, 8 cineole.

How do I Know what I am Getting:

Always purchase and use essential oils by their common name and genus species,

And of course make sure they are therapeutic grade.

Why does Any of this Matter:
It matters because different species (and chemotypes) equals different results! So the uses of eucalyptus will be different.

And some species may not be suitable for medicinal use at all.

 So you need to match the genus species with the result you want before you go to purchase an essential oil to use.

What are the Different Species and What are the Uses of Eucalyptus Species:

There are over 700 species of eucalyptus; however, there are only a handful used for medicinal purposes.

The most popular Eucalyptus species used for medicinal purposes are presented below:

 Eucalyptus globulus – This oil is commonly known as Eucalyptus or Blue Gum Oil. It contains 60-75% 1, 8 cineol. This is the eucalyptus that provides the medicinal benefits we all love and is well known. It is originally from Australia, however it is also grows in Brazil, China, Corsica and Ecuador.

Its properties are: anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-aging, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, deodorant, insecticidal, mucolytic and expectorant.

Eucalyptus Globulus

The uses of eucalyptus globulus include: 

respiratory and sinus infections, viral infections (herpes), Candida, acne, bronchitis, rheumatism and arthritis, muscle aches and pains, diabetes, measles, migraines, ulcers, wounds, ear inflammation and iris inflammation.

E. globulus a fresh and earthy aroma that promotes healing and well being. 

Dilute 50:50 in grapeseed oil.

 Can be used as a dietary supplement. 

Approved by the FDA as a Food Additive (FA) or Flavoring Agent (FL), however, not advised for children less than 6 years of age.

• Eucalyptus radiata:

This oil is commonly known as Black Peppermint Oil. 

It contains 60-75% 1, 8 cineol and is native to Australia. 

The constituent make up is similar to E. globulus, howere the difference is in the smell. 

Radiata is less intense and milder, making it sometimes chosen over E. globulus. 

Only two out of the six known chemotypes are harvested, CT 1, 8 cineol and CR peperitone.

Its properties are:

 anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-catarrhal, and expectorant.

Eucalyptus Radiata

The uses of eucalyptus radiata include: 

respiratory infections and viral infections (herpes simplex when combined with bergamot), acne, bronchitis, ear (inflammation), and inflammation of mucous membrane and sinusitis.

Has a sweet and fruity aroma. Dilute 50:50 in grapessed oil. 

Can not be used as a dietary supplement.

Eucalyptus Citriodora

•    Eucalyptus citriodora:

This oil is commonly known as Lemon Eucalyptus Oil. 

It contains 40-80% citronellal and has several chemotypes. 

Although originally from Australia, the trees grow in Guatemala, Colombia, Egypt South Africa, India and China. 

The trees of Madagascar are high in phenols and the

Brazilian trees contain a high percentage of aldehydes. 

Has an ORAC value of 83,000 µTE/100g. 

This is the highest value of all the Eucalyptus species.

Its properties are: 

analgesic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antiseptic, insecticidal and expectorant.

The uses of eucalyptus citriodora include: 

fungal infections (Candida, ringworm) respiratory infections and viral infections (herpes, shingles), insect repellent (cockroaches, silverfish) and clothes and air freshener (linen closet).

Its fresh and lemony aroma is uplifting. 

Dilute 50:50 in grapeseed oil.

 Can not be used as a dietary supplement. 

Repeated usage can possibly result in contact sensitization.

Eucalyptus Dives

•    Eucalyptus dives:

 This oil is commonly known as Peppermint Eucalyptus Oil. 

It contains 35-50% piperitone and 23-30% phellandrene. 

It has three chemotypes that have different uses: 

CT cineole, CT piperitone has a minty fragrance and CT phellandrene is used for insecticide.

Its properties are:

 anti-bacterial, mucolytic and diuretic.

 The uses of eucalyptus dives include: 

infections of the throat, lung and sinuses, hypertension and supports the respiratory system.

Its fresh aroma is invigorating and will help clear the sinuses. 

Dilute 50:50 in grapeseed oil.

Can not be used as a dietary supplement.

Eucalyptus Polybractea

•    Eucalyptus polybractea:

 This oil is commonly known as Blue Mallee Oil. 

This tree is grown in France, but native to Australia. 

It contains 85-95% 1, 8 cineol. 

The chemotype from the French Tree contains cryptone and smells similar to cumin.

Its properties are: 

anti-infectious, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, expectorant, mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, viral infections (herpes) and insecticidal. 

The uses of eucalyptus polybractea include: acne, cystitis and supports the respiratory system.

Its fresh and earthy aroma is uplifting. 

Dilute 50:50 in grapeseed oil.

 Can not be used as a dietary supplement.

Eucalyptus Bicostata

•    Eucalyptus bicostata:

 This oil is commonly known as Eucalyptus Blue. 

The plant is grown in Ecuador (Eucalyptus Blue) and Australia (Southern Blue Gum).

 It contains the highest amount of alpha-pinene of any eucalyptus making it extremely beneficial for the respiratory system. 

It also contains eucalyptol (1, 8 cineol). 

Some botanists consider this a subspecies of E. globulus; however, this does not have global support at this time.

Its properties are: 

anti-infectious, insecticidal and anti-inflammatory. 

Supports the respiratory system and promote breathing. 

It is an antispasmodic making it great for relaxing muscles after a hard workout or exercise.

Its fresh aroma is very calming to the mind. Dilute 50:50. 

Use in humidifier. 

Can not be used as a dietary supplement.

Eucalyptus Staigeriana

•    Eucalyptus staigeriana:

 This oil is commonly known as Lemon Ironbark (not to be confused with lemon myrtle). 

This oil contains a high amount of aldehydes (about 51%) making it extremely beneficial for the skin, respiratory system and, muscles and bones.

Its properties are: analgesic, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory anti-vital and anti-fungal.

 It is a powerful antispasmodic and is sedative like.

The uses of eucalyptus staigeriana include: 

bronchitis, colds, infections, dermatitis, inflammation, stress and lowering hypertension. You will see it in skin care products.

Which do I choose:
Choose chemistry over confusion. 

Choose dependability over deception. 

Depend on quality over quantity or price.

 Read your labels and don't be taken by a snake oil salesman's misinformation.