In a blog we posted earlier this year, we defined Plant-Based Therapies and explained that it is not simply the use of the Cannabis plant, but in fact, the use of all plants. The plants you choose to incorporate into your health journey are what provide the natural resources that feed and drive the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The natural resource we are talking about this week is eucalyptus! As you might have guessed, Eucalyptus oil is derived from Eucalypts, which are often called gum trees. This flora is native to Australia and there are more than 800 species.1 The Australian Aborigines used eucalyptus leaves to administer to wounds and inhibit infections.
Benefits of Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has been used for several years to alleviate coughing. Even today, there are over-the-counter cough medications, such as Vicks VapoRub, that have eucalyptus oil as one of the active ingredients.2 Another popular use for eucalyptus oil is using it as an insect repellant, especially the oil of lemon eucalyptus. You can also recreate what the Aborigines did even today by using eucalyptus essential oils in a topical application to help fight inflammation and improve your wellness. Eucalyptus oil shows potential as a remedy for diabetes—while more research is still needed on the matter—experts consider that it may play a role in reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.2 We believe that eucalyptus oil has a role in easing joint pain as it helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with numerous conditions.
Terpenes in Eucalyptus
With so many different species of Eucalyptus, it is hard to pin down the exact terpene profile as there will be some variances between the plants. This study3 looked at two different species (Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus maculata) and the major identified terpenes between the two were Eucalyptol, p-cymene, a-pinene, β-myrcene, and y-terpinene. Eucalyptol is found not only in eucalyptus, but also in Cannabis, bay leaves, wormwood, tea tree, and basil. It exhibits anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as providing relief from asthma.4 p-Cymene can also be found in Cannabis, cumin, thyme, coriander, and oregano. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-biotic properties as well as preventing acute lung injury.4 a-Pinene is also found in Cannabis, pine, rosemary, and parsley. It has anti-inflammatory properties as well as providing relief from asthma. a-Pinene exhibits bronchodilator qualities as well as aiding memory.4 β-Myrcene can also be found in Cannabis, hops, mango, and lemongrass. It has antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. β-Myrcene can also be used as a sedative.4 Terpinene is also present in Cannabis, cardamom, marjoram, and juniper oils. It exhibits antioxidant properties but further research is needed to discover more properties as it is one of the lesser researched terpenes.5 While not discussed in that particular study, Beyond Buds states the terpene Phellandrene can also be found in Eucalyptus. Phellandrene is an expectorant and exhibits anti-depressant and anti-cancer properties.
Where to Find Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is used in our proprietary blend of essential oils for our very own Hawkeye Relief Pain Stick! It helps to provide rapid relief for inflammation, stiffness, muscle recovery, dry/cracked skin and so much more. Hawkeye Relief is a potent, fast-acting, and soothing formula specially designed for immediate and long-lasting relief. Click here to order a Hawkeye Relief Pain Stick or call (301) 778-4295 for any questions you may have!
Sources
Source 3 – Ismail Almas, Ester Innocent, Francis Machumi, William Kisinza. Chemical composition of essential oils from Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus maculata grown in Tanzania, Scientific African, Volume 12, 2021
Source 4 – Beyond Buds : Next Generation by: Ed Rosenthal with Greg Zeman