Eucalyptus and its usage

Eucalyptus is a genus of plants containing over 500 unique species. It is a tall evergreen tree native to Australia and Tasmania. In Australia, eucalyptus is also known as "malee," and a specific widespread tree, Eucalyptus globulus, globe eucalyptus, is known as "blue gum."

Usage of Eucalyptus:

Aromatic oil extracted from the trees is used in perfumes, and also in complementary alternative medicine. The oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti inflammatory, expectorant, and deodorant properties.
Eucalyptus from Australia can be considered sustainable timber, because the trees are native to the region and they re grow quickly.
Eucalyptus is found in a variety of wood products exported from Australia including flooring, paper, and finished furniture.
Eucalyptus is used as medicine.

Medicinal benefits of Eucalyptus:

Eucalyptus has been used traditionally to treat diabetes
It is also commonly used in remedies to treat coughs and the common cold.
Herbalists recommend the use of fresh leaves in teas and gargles to soothe sore throats and treat bronchitis and sinusitis.
Ointments containing eucalyptus leaves are also applied to the nose and chest to relieve congestion.
Inhaling eucalyptus vapors help to treat bronchitis, coughs, and the flu.
On the skin, eucalyptus oil has been used to treat arthritis, boils, sores and wounds.
The oil is also used to rub on the skin as an insect repellent.
Smelling eucalyptus can help to revive someone who has fainted.
Diluted eucalyptus tinctures are used to treat bad breath.

Precaution: Along with benefits Eucalyptus has some side effects too. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a

health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.

People with asthma should use eucalyptus oil with caution due to the herbs potential to tigger an asthma attack.
Children should not ingest eucalyptus leaves or oil. Only children older than 6 years of age should take cough drops containing eucalyptus.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use eucalyptus.
When used externally, eucalyptus oil is nontoxic. When taken internally, however, eucalyptus oil is toxic and must be diluted.

(Sources: ezinearticles.com/?Eucalyptus---Uses-and-Side-Effects&id=1026178, umm.edu, wisegeek.com, evitamins.com)

(Image Source: pharmacy.arizona.edu)