By Aromatherapy Thymes for DivineCaroline.com

The tall, water-loving eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. Native to Australia, it is regarded as a �cure-all� by indigenous Aborigines and it is also used in malaria-infested areas to purify the soil and air.

Distilled, eucalyptus is one of the most universal and versatile of essential oils. Some of its many properties include analgesic, antiseptic, deodorant, expectorant, and vermifuge (anti-parasitic).

Blue gum eucalyptus, for example, also has a beautiful refreshing scent with rich cineole and slightly camphoraceous, with a typical eucalyptus smell. This blends well with other essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, melissa, pine, tea tree, and juniper.

Fight off flu and fever
With over 50 pounds of plant material needed for one pound of oil, eucalyptus was first distilled in 1788 by doctors John White and Dennis Cossiden to treat problems of the chest. It is now known as a “stimulating” expectorant due to its invigorating action on the mucus membranes and widely considered to be an effective remedy for respiratory ills.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, eucalyptus is an exceptional remedy for clearing lung-phlegm and wind-heat. It is classified as a tonic of the lung Qi and is used to enhance breathing, making it beneficial during the onset of flu or fever, sore throat, the common cold, sinusitis, and bronchitis. It is also commonly used to help with asthma and bronchitis.

Eucalyptus Immune System Boost
2 drops eucalyptus globulus
2 drops lavender
1/2 cup sea salt

• Blend thoroughly before using. A good use for this blend is in the bath where you could have a good hot soak for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Purify thyself
A very cleansing plant, eucalyptus is considered to be an herb of purification.

In the early 1850s, the German botanist and explorer, Baron Ferdinand Von Muller, suggested that the fragrance of the trees might prove antiseptic. Then in 1855, the French government sent seeds to Algeria to grow eucalyptus and consequently many disease-ridden areas were converted to healthy dry ones.

Tip: Want to purify the air you breathe? Eucalyptus oil purifies your environment. In a diffuser, it will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria.

The original oil introduced to Europe was extracted from eucalyptus peperita and soon became known as “Sydney peppermint.” During World War I, eucalyptus oil was in huge demand as it was used to help control a meningitis outbreak, and in 1919 it was used to help control influenza.

Beat depression and lethargy
Eucalyptus has a predominately stimulating effect on the nervous system and therefore should assist those suffering from depression, stress, and lethargy.

Tip: If you are strained, tense, or frazzled, try creating an aroma mist spray with balancing oils. Add fifteen to twenty drops of eucalyptus, geranium, or bergamot to one ounce of distilled water in a dark glass spray bottle. Mist yourself when feeling stressed. This should help immediately!

Associated with the moon and feminine energy, eucalyptus is both cool and moist by nature. The psychological properties of eucalyptus oils are closely related to the action of the lungs, which are associated with grief and depression. The aroma of eucalyptus helps to dispel melancholy while lifting the spirits and restoring vitality, harmony, and balance.

Eucalyptus may also be useful on a subtle level to cleanse any place where conflict or negative energies have collected.

Additionally, eucalyptus is used to relieve muscular aches and pains.

Massage in and inhale
Today, eucalyptus oil continues to be a familiar ingredient in chest rubs, general antiseptics, decongestants, and cough remedies. It is also commonly found in muscle and joint ointments, as the oil is particularly effective in treating aches and pains of a “cold” nature, such as rheumatic pains.

Various modes of application include topical, such as massage, compress, bath, and skin care, as well as direct inhalation, diffusers, and vaporizers.

When used externally, eucalyptus is both non-toxic and non-irritating and is a must for every natural first aid kit and home medicine chest. Although eucalyptus is considered generally safe for aromatherapy, it is prudent to avoid use with infants and during pregnancy.