Eucalyptus is a highly popular scent that has been used for centuries. Its many positive aspects and applications help make it one of our most-loved essential oils. Read on to learn more about this invigorating—yet soothing—multitasker!
Eucalyptus Radiata
There are many types of eucalyptus, each of which has a different essential oil. The eucalyptus used by Nature’s Fusions comes from a species known as eucalyptus radiata. Most people are familiar with a closely related species called eucalyptus globulus, which is very popular.
Nature’s Fusions carries eucalyptus radiata because it has been found to be safe for use on children, as well as effective in various applications.
History
The first botanical documentation of eucalyptus occurred in 1770 when two British naturalists, David Solander and Joseph Banks, collected samples from an area near the Endeavor River (in Far North Queensland, Australia) while on an expedition with Captain James Cook.
The plant was named by Charles Louis L’Héritier de Brutelle, who combined the Greek words “eu” (well) and “calyptos” (covered) to create the word “eucalyptus”. This term referred to the protective flower bud that shields other parts of the eucalyptus flower. His name was doubly fitting, as time showed that eucalyptus oil can blanket the air with it’s aroma.
How It Grows
Though most eucalyptus plants are native to Australia, a few species live in other locations, such as the Mediterranean and China. Eucalyptus thrives in warmer, temperate climates and requires large amounts of water to thrive. It tends to cover extensive expanses of land because of its allelopathic effect. This means eucalyptus emits a natural chemical compound that prevents other plants from growing nearby.
How It's Harvested
Our oil comes from towering eucalyptus trees in Australia. The oil is harvested using a steam-distillation process, where hot steam collects the volatile vapors of the leaves, which is then condensed down to the essential oil.
Uses
Just as there are many species of eucalyptus plants, there are also many ways to utilize eucalyptus oil.
When applied topically, eucalyptus essential oil can improve the appearance of aged or damaged skin. Our oil contains a high concentration of eucalyptol. We recommend using eucalyptus oil by diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil or mixing it with your favorite scents in a diffuser.
Eucalyptus oil is incredibly soothing. Simply smell it straight from the bottle for instant feelings of relief and peace, or diffuse it to create a relaxing, calming environment.
Controversies
Remember the allelopathic effect that we mentioned earlier? Some view this aspect of eucalyptus trees negatively, because it prevents biodiversity. Eucalyptus trees and oil is also extremely flammable, which presents a problem for dry, forest fire-prone areas like Australia. Additionally, eucalyptus plants also require a lot of water, which can quickly exhaust an already limited water supply in dry areas.
Despite the controversies, eucalyptus oil remains a bestseller throughout the world. Its ability to simultaneously relax and energize the user make it a versatile oil that belongs in all essential oil collections. Grab yourself a bottle of Nature’s Fusions Eucalyptus Radiata today.
