Aarya Aroma-Eucalyptus Oil

Traditional Uses:

Native to Australia and Tasmania, eucalyptus is now cultivated in Nepal and growing quickly in many terrai regions. Introduced some 50-60 years ago in the Terai and at lower altitudes of Nepal; there are some quite promising Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) plantations in the lower plains of the Himalayas.

Traditionally, it was used for colds, as a decongestant, to relieve asthma and fevers, for its bactericidal and anti-viral actions, to ease aching joints. Eucalyptus is a traditional household remedy in Australia and Asia. The leaves and oil are especially used in inhalation preparations. Additionally, eucalyptus is an effective natural insect repellant and antiseptic.

As an Aromatherapy Use it acts as clearing agent and aids in concentration. Cools down the emotions and stimulates the senses.

Eucalyptus oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of Eucalyptus camaldulensis.

1. Organoleptic Properties:

Appearance: Slightly viscous liquid

Color: Yellow to yellowish brown

Aroma: Warm woody-spicy

2. Physico - Chemical Properties:

Specific Gravity: 1.0695 to 1.0795 at 23° C

Optical Rotation: (-) 0.2 to (-) 0.5 at 23° C

Refractive Index: 1.5335 to 1.5589 at 23° C

Acid No: 0.6 to 2.5

Ester No: 2 to 12

Ester No: after Acetylation: 8.5 to 12

Solubility: Soluble in 0.4 to 1.5 volumes of 80% alcohol

3. Packing:

Aluminum containers and epoxy-lined metallic barrels

500g, 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 50 kg, 100 kg, capacities

4. Uses:

In perfumes of the woody oriental type; in spice blends and flavors for alcoholic

beverages and Medicinal & Aromatherapy use

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References:

Adams R. (2001), Identification of essential oil components by gas chromatophy/ quadrupole mass spectroscopy, Allured Publishing Co, Carol Stream, USA.

Lewis W. (1977), Medical Botany. Plants AffectingMan’s Health. John Wiley & Sons, New York

Lawless, J. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils . Element Books, Inc. Rockport, MA 1995;132.

Guenther, E. 1948: The essential oils, Vol. 1-5. Van Norstrand. (ISB 0-88275-073-9)

Lawless, J. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils - The Complete Guide to the Use of Oils in Aromatherapy and Herbalism, Element, Shaftesbury, 1995

Newall, C.A., L.A. Anderson and J.D. Phillipson. 1996. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press.

Medicinal Plants of Nepal, His Majesty's Government of Nepal, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Department of Plant Resources, 6th Edition, Kathmandu, 2001