Eucalyptus: Uses in Traditional Medicine

Eucalyptus is a type of tree native to Australia. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine for their potential decongestant and respiratory benefits.

Eucalyptus FAQ

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What is eucalyptus oil used for?

Eucalyptus oil is readily steam distilled 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.

Where do eucalyptus trees grow?

Today, Eucalyptus is the most widely planted type of tree in plantations around the world, in South America (mainly in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay ), South Africa, Australia, India, Galicia, Portugal and many more. In the 1850s, Eucalyptus trees were introduced to California by Australians during the California Gold Rush.

What is Eucalyptus globulus?

Eucalyptus globulus ( E. globulus ), also known as southern blue gum, is a common eucalyptus tree. E. globulus has several plant chemicals; its leaves make eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil also has many substances—but mostly eucalyptol. These plant chemicals make E. globulus effective.

How many species of eucalyptus are there?

At that time, flowering trees were starting to take off and dinosaurs roamed the land. Today, botanists have identified around 900 species of eucalypts divided into three different groups: Eucalyptus, which make up the bulk of the species; Corymbia, the bloodwood eucalypts mainly found in the north; and Angophora.

Are eucalyptus trees?

Eucalyptus ( / ˌjuːkəˈlɪptəs /) is a genus of more than 700 species of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. Most species of Eucalyptus are trees, often mallees, and a few are shrubs. Along with several other genera in the tribe Eucalypteae, including Corymbia and Angophora, they are commonly known as eucalypts or "gum trees".

What eucalyptus grows in Australia?

A key to all the eucalypts in Australia, including the genera Angophora, Corymbia and Eucalyptus. A guide to some eucalypts that can be grown outside Australia in the northern hemisphere. Eucalypts are one group of plants covered in this account of Australian natives grown in the USA.

Why are eucalyptus trees important?

It relies heavily on taxonomic research. Close monitoring and research of eucalypts is crucial for conservation. And as one of the world’s most widely planted hardwoods, eucalypts have high economic value. With 934 native species, eucalypts are often referred to as 'gum trees' (which are a small group of eucalypts with smooth white bark).

What is eucalypts of Australia?

EUCLID, Eucalypts of Australia, is an app and website for easy identification of Australian eucalypts. EUCLID enables people to identify different eucalypt species. Eucalypts are a diverse group of plants that form an iconic and essential part of Australia's natural environment.