EUCALYPTUS
Eucalyptus radiata

Planet: Moon/ Mercury, air

History & Mythology
Eucalyptus is among the best known and most commonly used oils in aromatherapy. The trees are native to Australia, where it grows in forest communities. Eucalyptus trees grow very tall and to walk through such a forest with trees of over 100m towering above is a magical feeling. As the sun heats up the oils in the leaves are released and perfume the air with a fresh, sweet, aromatic scent. Unfortunately, it is impossible to capture this complex aroma in a bottle and the camphor-like scent of the essential oil is rather less sensuous. There are differences though, depending on which species of Eucalyptus the oil derives from. Our oil is distilled from Eucalyptus radiate, which is milder than the more commonly available, but rather harsh Eucalyptus globulus oil. Eucalyptus is powerfully anti-bacterial and very cleansing, which is why it is included in so many cold remedies, lozenges and chest rubs. Studies have shown that diffused in a room, Eucalyptus oil kills about 70% of airborne Staphylococci bacteria. The native people of Australia use Eucalyptus to treat wounds and to relieve fever. The European immigrants soon learned its value from the natives, and today Eucalyptus reputations as a panacea has spread far beyond Australia.

Magical use:
Eucalyptus is excellent for purification of ritual tools and ceremonial spaces. It can be used in healing rituals to banish the demons of disease and to purify the sick room. It is a cooling and calming oil, which clears all negative energies and cleanses the atmosphere. Good for clearing the air after an argument.

Scent:
A fresh, camphor-like, slightly balsamic scent. Blends well with Lemon, Melissa, Pine Lavender, Juniper and Immortelle (Helichrysum).

Aromatherapy:
Eucalyptus is best known for its excellent effect on conditions of the upper respiratory tract, for nasal or bronchial congestion, sinusitis, sinus headaches and practically all symptoms associated with colds and flu. Because E. radiata is less pungent, it is better suited for long-term use to treat persistent cough. It is an excellent room aroma for clearing the air in sick rooms as it will kill most of the bacteria in the air. It also lowers fever and in combination with Lavender can be very effective in the treatment of chickenpox. It is very cooling and can be used to draw the heat from inflammations. It is also a powerful insect repellent and soothes the itch of insect bites. Eucalyptus is also very useful for treating muscle aches and pains, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, neuralgia and weakness. Emotionally, it clears and cools the head and is useful when emotions are 'boiling over'. Do not take internally.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON AROMATHERAPY SEE OUR SEPERATE PAGE TITLED 'AROMATHERAPY USAGE'

QUALITY AND PURITY
We only supply the finest quality essential oils certified for Aromatherapy use. This assures that during the process of extraction, handling and bottling our oils receive all possible care and attention, and that the highest quality and purity is maintained throughout the preparation process.

SAFETY **
** Pure essential oils are highly concentrated substances that should always be treated with due respect. Organic oils naturally are the purest oils available.

** Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the properties and uses of each individual oil you intend to use and take note of all cautions.

** Never take essential oils internally! *

** Do not apply essential oils neat (undiluted) to the skin. The recommended Aromatherapy standard dilution is 1 - 3%, though certain oils may be used in higher or lower dilutions. Consider each case individually.

** Always adhere to recommended safety standards and recommended dilution ratios.

** If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies test oil blends on a small area of the inner arm prior to general use.

** Keep oils out of reach of children and pets.

** Never allow essential oils to enter the eyes.

** If you are pregnant, consult a qualified aromatherapist for suitability and safety of specific oils. Many oils should not be used during pregnancy, some only need to be avoided for the first 3 - 4 months, others may be helpful during labour, but may pose a risk during the months before.

** If you suffer from serious medical conditions such as (but not exclusively) high blood pressure, cancer, thrombosis, varicose veins or epilepsy, consult a qualified aromatherapist for professional advice on recommended oils and dosages.

** We support the notion of people taking responsibility for their own well being. However, if symptoms persist or re-occur or you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to work with you in exploring natural health alternatives.
*...unless you know better.