Eucalyptus globulus
Other names: Blue Gum, Stringy Bark
Family: Myrtaceae

Description
Eucalyptus is a tall, evergreen tree native to Australia and Tasmania. Among its various species, the blue gum is the one commonly grown in the U.S. The trunk, which grows to 300 feet high or more, is covered with peeling papery bark. The leaves on the young plant, up to 5 years old, are opposite, sessile, soft, oblong, pointed, and a hoary blue color. The mature leaves are alternate, petioled, leathery, and shaped like a scimitar. The flowers are solitary, axillary, and white, with no petals and a woody calyx. The fruit is a hard, four-celled, many-seeded capsule enclosed in the calyx cup.

Parts used
Leaves.

Usage
Antiseptic, valuable for infections of the respiratory system.  Soothes cough and bronchitis, flu, lung tuberculosis, asthma, sore throat. Anti rheumatic, good for neuralgias. Brings down fever and helps with headaches. Eucalyptus oil is a powerful antiseptic, and is used to treat pyorrhoea (gum disease), and is used on burns to prevent infections. The oil breathed in will help clear the sinuses, as will the steam from boiling the leaves. When mixed with water or vegetable oils, it makes a good insect repellent. A small drop on the tongue eases nausea.

Decoction: 3 leaves for each cup, boil for a minute then leave for 10 minutes. Drink 3 cups a day.

Infusion: 25 gram of leaves in a litre of hot water for 10 minutes, 3-4 cups a day.

External use: In cases of bronchitis and sinusitis, we can drop four parts of Eucalyptus, two parts of Thyme and one part of Lavender and inhale the steam 2-3 times daily. We can, also, throw leaves in boiling water and let cleanse the atmosphere (kills most staphylococcus germs, it’s good for treating flue, asthma and contagious diseases). Similarly, with 15 drop of essential oil. Boiling leaves in water and adding it to baths can have beneficial results for colds. Adding Rosemary, Thyme and Pine-needle to the mix not only soothes nervous excitement but also helps with insomnia and rheumatic pains.

* The information here should not be considered medical advice, and you should always consult a physician before beginning any herbal therapy.