Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is a member of the Myrtaceae family, native to Australia, and New Zealand. Traditionally, its leaves, resin, and bark have been used for infusions, decoctions, and oil infusions.

This herb is particularly valued for its expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Eucalyptus
Scientific Name	Eucalyptus globulus
Plant Family	Myrtaceae
Genus	Eucalyptus
Species	globulus
Native Range	Australia, New Zealand
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Resin, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Expectorant, Anti-Inflammatory, Antispasmodic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Oil Infusion

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Eucalyptus globulus
Common Name: Eucalyptus
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Blue Gum, Blue Gum, Australian Tea Tree
Plant Family: Myrtaceae
Genus: Eucalyptus

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 10 to 40 meters.
Leaves: Smooth upper surface with a silvery-white waxy coating, lower surface with a pale green to whitish coloration, and prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Inflorescences are umbellate clusters with actinomorphic flowers having white to pale blue petals, five sepals, and a prominent discoid staminode.
Stems: Elongated, erect growth habit, opposite branching pattern, smooth, glabrous surface, persistent leaf scars.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Oil Infusion
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Expectorant: In herbal texts, considered a soothing expectorant, for breathing-focused uses.
Anti-inflammatory: In herbal literature, noted as a cooling anti-inflammatory, in inflammation-focused discussions.
Antispasmodic: Traditionally described as a gentle antispasmodic, in spasm-related situations.
Diuretic: Commonly referenced as a mild diuretic, in cleansing-oriented uses.

Active Compounds

Essential Oil: A mixture of naturally occurring compounds responsible for plant aroma.
Terpenoid: A chemical class commonly associated with volatile plant constituents.
Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Phenolic Acid: A group of plant-derived compounds frequently identified in herbal material.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: Contraindications related to this herb have been noted in traditional use and available sources.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: This herb has been associated with interactions when used alongside certain pharmaceutical medications.
Toxicity: Toxicity related to this herb has been documented in available sources.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Information addressing pregnancy and breastfeeding-related safety for this herb is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: A preparation method involving steeping plant material in heated water for a short period.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Capsule: A preparation format using encapsulated plant powders.
Tincture: Plant material is macerated in alcohol to create a concentrated liquid extract.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in moderate fertility soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.