Eucalyptus is a tree that is a member of the Myrtaceae family, with over 600 varieties. It is native to Australia, where they are known as gums, but they now grow throughout warmer climates. Some eucalypts grow to over 90m. They are evergreen, aromatic with deciduous bark, the leaves tend to be blue-grey or blue-green in colour, with feathery pink or white flowers which become small top shaped seeds. The leaves of the young trees are oval and become lanceolet on maturing.
The Australian aborigines used the leaves as an anti-septic and would make tinctures to treat chest infections and they would burn the leaves to drive away airborne diseases.
All eucalypts contain oil, which was first distilled by Joseph Bosito, an early immigrant, who sold it as a cure for winter illnesses.
The most popular species are E. globulus; E. citriodora; E. dives; E. radiata and E. polybractea. The main constituents are cineol, pinene, limonene, turpinene. It is analgesic, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, depurative, diuretic, parasiticide, vermifuge, as well as hypoglycemic, stimulant and vulnerary. This makes eucalyptus one of the most commonly used and valuable essential oils. It is used for a wide range of ailments including infections of the respiratory system, such as asthma, bronchitis and catarrh. It will stimulate the immune system, overcome genito-urinary infections and is particularly effective in the treatment of rheumatic conditions and skin infections. Oils from the eucalyptus feature in many commercial products such as soaps, detergents, perfumes, room and insect sprays, solvents and cough syrups and toothpastes.
Unfortunately the eucalypts have an enormous appetite for water. They were originally introduced in Cyprus by the British to clear our malarial swamps but they now pose an ecological problem. The tree dominates all surrounding vegetation by not only extracting all available water by way of its very deep tap roots, but also by exuding chemical inhibitors from it root system which overcome any competitor and therefore prevents the growth of our endemic plants within its field of influence. However, one must admit they make for a magnificent stand of timber.
Two things worth trying in winter: cut fresh leaves and stems, place them in a hot bath and discover how reviving and efficacious the experience will be. At Christmas cut leaf, stem and seeds and cover with gold or silver spray and use them for household decoration.
Never take eucalyptus oil internally. It can be fatal.
Next week: cranberry
