The incredible Eucalyptus tree has a mixed reputation. A member of the Myrtle family and native to Australia, Eucalyptus comes in approximately seven hundred species, and each has its own personality and character. Its also known as a type of "gum tree" because it secretes a gooey, resinous liquid when the tree is cut.
Eucalyptus trees are used around the world to supply lumber, paper products and firewood. When the wood is used for flooring, it is valued for its protective qualities against mold because of the high content of essential oils in the wood.
Background
The Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree. When cut down, they sprout right back up again! This miracle tree has been a financial boom to many businesses in various countries. It is second after the pine tree as the top cultivated tree in the world.
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When the Eucalyptus tree's leaves drop to the ground, the antibacterial, antifungal qualities of the oils in the leaves prevent plant life from growing around the trees. The leaves also take a very long time to be degraded by bacteria and fungus.
Are Eucalyptus Trees a Threat?
The Eucalyptus tree has been in the news due to the University of California-Berkeley's plan to remove thousands of Eucalyptus trees from their campus. With so many benefits, why is the University of California so unhappy with the tree? What are the pros and cons? The University has analyzed the ecological effects of Eucalyptus trees for over thirty years.
The Eucalyptus tree consumes far more water than other non-native trees. In some countries, Eucalyptus is planted to dry up swamps and wet areas. Sometimes these wet areas are believed to be a source of malaria. The roots from the tree extend deep into the water table. On the downside, Eucalyptus trees may dry up local water sources and wells.
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Another argument presented by the University of California-Berkeley is that the uptake of nutrients depletes the soil. An Ecological Audit done in 1987 found that the Eucalyptus tree undermined land for biological productivity and presented a threat.
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California has suffered repeatedly from drought conditions, so the impact on soil moisture and ground water and on soil fertility and other plant life is a concern. Despite its beauty and its diversity, the University wants to begin the process of removing these trees and introducing native trees.
Young Living Eucalyptus Essential Oils
For many years, Young Living has partnered with a Eucalyptus farm in Australia. Through this relationship, Young Living has access to therapeutic quality Eucalyptus oil and the essential oil of Melaleuca which also belongs to the Myrtle family. Young Living has a very active office and warehouse in Australia to support Young Living members in the Australian and New Zealand area.
Here are a few of the Eucalyptus oils that Young Living carries along with some historical information about their qualities:
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Eucalyptus Radiata consists of six different cultivars. This Eucalyptus oil has the most medicinal qualities and is effective for supporting the health of the respiratory system. This essential oil is commonly used in humidifiers.
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Eucalyptus Globulus or blue gum was used by the Australian Aborigines to protect and heal wounds.
Jean Valnet, a medical doctor in France, found that a 2% solution of Eucalyptus Globulus sprayed in the air will kill 70% of airborne staph bacteria. This essential oil is often used for respiratory congestion.
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Eucalyptus Blue is one of the newer oils at Young Living Essential Oils. Gary Young came across it quite by accident. He was travelling along a highway in Ecuador and noticed that that eucalyptus trees were being cut down in a nearby forest. He stopped and asked what they were going to do with all the branches and how much did they want for them? They said "Nothing.” He sent a truck to pick up the branches and then tested the oil. It turned out that the species in this forest was a cross between Australian and Ecuadorian Eucalyptus.
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It is a beautiful blue oil and is particularly enjoyed by children. Eucalyptus Blue is steam distilled in small batches at the Quayagil farm in Ecuador. This oil is known for its anti-inflammation and anti-viral properties. Eucalyptus supports the health of the body's overall metabolism, the immune system and the respiratory system.
