Cut Eucalyptus Leaves

Description

• PLANT:

Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus globulus, is a tree in the botanical family Myrtaceae, native to Australia.

This evergreen tree can reach as much as 60 metres in height. It has a smooth greyish trunk and elongated light-green leaves. Its flowers are white and have no petals.

• COMPOSITION:

Eucalyptus contains gallic and ferulic acids. It also contains tannins, which have antioxidant properties, and flavonoids,
The composition of eucalyptus includes bitter principles and resins, as well as monoterpenes and aldehydes.
Its chemical composition is notable for its essential oil content, whose main constituent is cineole or eucalyptol (a terpene ether oxide). It also contains terpineol, terpene hydrocarbons (alpha-pinene), aliphatic and sesquiterpene alcohols (eudesmol), aldehydes (butyric, valeric and caproic) and ketones.
It also contains tannin (a detoxifying substance), flavonoid pigments (quercetol glycosides) and a complex phenolic glycoside, calyptoside, phenolic acids (gallic and caffeic), resin and a bitter principle.

• COSMETIC PROPERTIES AND USES:

These components give eucalyptus its expectorant, antimicrobial, analgesic, balsamic, antibacterial, diuretic, wound-healing, antirheumatic, vermifuge, antiviral, antiseptic, purifying, decongestant, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions. Thanks to these properties, eucalyptus leaves have many uses, including for arthritis, osteoarthritis and muscular pain in ointments and poultices. Gingivitis and bad breath can be prevented by gargling with an infusion or chewing the leaves. Another valuable use is for cuts, wounds, herpes, mouth ulcers and acne, thanks to its antiseptic properties and richness in gallic acid, which help disinfect and heal these various skin problems. As a highly aromatic ingredient, it can also be used in many formulations for anti-dandruff shampoos, soaps, gels, lotions and air fresheners.
For medicinal purposes, eucalyptus leaves are used in infusions, poultices, steam inhalations or baths.