Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus globulus
⚠ Use with Caution
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Australia, Tasmania
Also known as: Blue Gum Eucalyptus, Tasmanian Blue Gum, Southern Blue Gum
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Leaf
Therapeutic Uses
Respiratory infections, bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma (expectorant and bronchodilator), influenza, skin infections (topical), cough (topical chest rub).
Herbal Actions
Expectorant, decongestant, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, hypoglycemic
Active Constituents
Volatile oil (1,8-cineole/eucalyptol 70–80% — primary, alpha-pinene, limonene, globulol), flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea⚗️ Essential Oil🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried leaf per 500ml, steep 10 min covered, inhale steam, drink 3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Steam inhalation most effective for respiratory: pour hot water over leaves, inhale steam. Essential oil chest rub: 5% in carrier oil. NEVER apply essential oil undiluted or near infants' face (fatal respiratory depression). |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Essential oil: NEVER near infants and young children (respiratory arrest). Never ingest essential oil undiluted. Avoid in epilepsy. Avoid near face in young children.
Side Effects: Essential oil ingestion: vomiting, dizziness, seizures, respiratory arrest (especially children). Topical: skin irritation. Herb tea: safe. Allergic reactions.