As eucalyptus trees mature, their young, round, silvery blue-green leaves turn into long, swordlike, deep green leaves that emit the characteristic camphoraceous odor of eucalyptus. Woody seed pods dangling down from the creamy-colored branches almost completely cover the budding blossoms; hence the tree's name, which comes from the Greek word eukalyptos, meaning "covered" or "wrapped." Eucalyptus oil has a refreshing, penetrating and stimulating aroma that smells somewhat medicinal. About fifty pounds of eucalyptus leaves yield one pound of clear or pale yellow eucalyptus oil.
Eucalyptus globulus is the most common species employed in aromatherapy, although over a dozen others-including Eucalyptus australiana, Eucalyptus polybrachtea, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus smithii-also yield essential oils. The oil of Eucalyptus citriodora has a citruslike aroma; Eucalyptus dives yields an oil with a smell reminiscent of peppermint. All of these trees are members of the Myrtaceae family.
Beauty Benefits
Eucalyptus oil clears acne and skin blemishes by reducing excessive oiliness. It promotes the regeneration of skin tissue and can also soothe the pain of sunburn.
Emotional Effects
Eucalyptus oil's stimulating and refreshing nature helps overcome sluggishness. During times of emotional overload, it can restore balance, improve concentration and increase intellectual capacity. Eucalyptus oil can cool the heat of anger. After a fight or conflict, diffusing eucalyptus oil through the room will cleanse the environment.
Reprinted from Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson with permission of Avery Books, a member of Penguin Putnam Inc. Copyright © 1995 by Roberta Wilson.
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