Eucalyptus is native to Australia. It is an evergreen tree with leathery, bluegreen leaves. It is fast growing and can reach heights of up to 300ft! Eucalyptus is aromatic with a scent profile of mint, camphor, honey, and citrus. It is considered a gum tree due to the sap excreted when the bark is broken. Eucalyptus thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8–11. It prefers bright sunny areas with well draining soil. In the 1800s Baron Ferdinand von Müller who was an explorer and botanist, was credited for gaining worldwide notoriety for the properties of this tree. Eucalyptus, second to only Tea Tree, is one of the top ten Aboriginal bush medicines. Its bark has been made into bowls, dishes and canoes.
Botanical Name: Eucalyptus spp. globulus
Chakras: Heart, Root
Elements: Air, Water
Energy: Feminine
Folk Names: Blue Gum Trees
Planets: Moon, Mercury, Venus
Zodiac Correspondences: Pisces, Cancer
Magical Properties
Magickal Keywords: Banishing, Energy, Healing, Protection, Reconciliation, Spiritual Growth, Warding off Evil
Eucalyptus is an excellent healing herb both physically and spiritually. A ring of Eucalyptus leaves around a white or blue candle is thought to draw in powerful healing energy. It can be burned as an incense to cleanse and purify any space and in healing rituals. In this way it can be burned after an argument or after a sick person leaves a room. Eucalyptus is often hung over doors and windows for protection, and over the bed of a sick person to heal them. The leaves can be carried in a sachet for protection or stuffed into a poppet to maintain good health.
In Hoodoo Eucalyptus is placed in one's shoe to protect from jinxes. It is also used in ritual baths for cleansing and casting off evil.
Holistic Properties
Holistic Keywords: Antimicrobial, Astringent, Deodorizing, Expectorant, Hypotensive, Mucolytic, Muscle Relaxant
The main component of Eucalyptus is 1,8-cineole, it is this phytochemical that gives it its respiratory health benefits. Burning Eucalyptus essential oil in an oil burner will help to kill airborne germs. Its mucolytic properties are known to help thin excess mucus, making it easier to cough up. To maintain a strong immune system Eucalyptus tea or tincture can be used. It has been found to be effective against E. coli and Candida albicans.
Eucalyptus is a powerful antiseptic which makes it great for treating abscesses, cold sores, insect bites and more. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory which makes it an excellent ingredient in massage oils for sore, arthritic joints and sports injuries. The essential oil can be burned, inhaled directly, diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the body, or added to baths to get the healing effects from it.
Constituents
Eucalyptus contains; α-Terpineol, 1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol), α-pinene, β-pinene, Sabinene, Camphene, Limonene, p-Cymene, Camphor, Globulol, Citronellal, α-phellandrene, Aromadendrene, and Piperitone.
Precautions
Eucalyptus should not be applied directly to skin. As for all herbs, only use Eucalyptus from a trusted, pesticide-free source. Please consult with your healthcare practitioner before using herbal products internally, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational and entertainment purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA or CFIA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. No outcome is guaranteed. Please use herbs responsibly.