Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil

Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil is a volatile essential oil extracted (or distilled) from the leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as the southern blue gum.

It is a tall, evergreen, Australian tree with waxy leaves. The name ‘globulus’ describes its fruits: small and sphere-shaped. The trees can grow very tall - the tallest eucalyptus tree measuring almost 100m high.

The leaves are elliptical in shape in their first year of growth and in the years following they grow into 10cm long, lance-shaped, mature leaves. These are the leaves with the highest content of the essential oil.

The leaves are harvested from the cultivated trees and are steam-distilled to obtain the essential oil. The eucalyptus leaf extract has been used by the Australian Aboriginal people for centuries to relieve fevers, colds, and congestion.

To be considered high-quality, the eucalyptus leaf oil must contain at least 70% of cineole (or eucalyptol) according to the pharmacopeia standards. Cineole has potent antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory activity. It is used in medicine in cough lozenges, syrups, and inhalers to relieve congestion and a cough.

It is used as a fragrance or for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties in skincare products. It is also a good insect repellent.

Like all essential oils, however, it should never be used undiluted directly on the skin, nor ingested.