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The Many Types of Eucalyptus Essential Oil & Their Best Uses

Eucalyptus leaves

Eucalyptus trees are nothing short of marvelous. With over 660 species of shrubs and tall trees belonging to the Eucalyptus genus, these trees are diverse and impressive. Some species of eucalyptus trees in Victoria and Tasmania even grow to be 300 feet tall with a circumference of 24.5 feet!

As a result of the diversity among eucalyptus, It’s no surprise that a common question we get is, “What is the difference between the different types of eucalyptus essential oil?” 

So, today, we’re sharing the difference between the four primary types of eucalyptus essential oil and their recommended uses. You may be surprised to learn about how many benefits of eucalyptus oil there are! 

The following recommended uses include different ideas for how you can incorporate these eucalyptus essential oils into your routine to promote better health and wellbeing. As with any of our articles, we always recommend that you speak with your doctor if you have any health concerns, medical conditions, or take pharmaceutical drugs.

Eucalyptus Radiata

Eucalyptus radiata essential oil is an excellent choice for those looking for a strong antiviral and expectorant and an essential oil that is great for supporting your respiratory system. 

Compared to other eucalyptus species, Eucalyptus radiata has more robust antiviral properties. Studies have discovered that eucalyptus essential oil has “enormous potential for preventing and treating infectious diseases caused by viruses.” Researchers believe this is due to the eucalyptus' primary molecular mechanisms and its anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and mucolytic effects. These effects support healing from common virus symptoms, such as inflammation, muscle spasms and aches, and mucus build-up. 

Key Points

  • Traditionally used for improving mental clarity, alertness, and energy
  • Woody and camphor scent with a light peppermint undertone
  • Cooling and stimulating
  • Traditionally used to treat sinus infections, acne, and vaginitis 
  • Known as a stronger antiviral and expectorant compared to other eucalyptus species

Notable Constituents

  • 1, 8-Cineole
  • alpha-Terpineol

Recommended Uses

  • Sprinkle one to two drops on your pillow before going to sleep to promote freer breathing
  • Inhale or diffuse to help open sinuses and breathing passages
  • May be applied to skin infections, lice, insect bites, cuts, blisters, and herpes 
  • Using a carrier oil, massage into areas with poor circulation, achiness, pain, or sprains to soothe the body

Lemon Eucalyptus

Lemon eucalyptus essential oil, also known as Eucalyptus citridora, has a pleasant, calming, yet energizing smell that many people love. We love recommending lemon eucalyptus for various uses, especially in natural insect bites and bug repellents

Studies have shown that lemon eucalyptus essential oil protects against tick bites. One study found that 65% of people experienced tick bites below the waist area with no bug repellent. Participants who used lemon eucalyptus in a natural bug repellent only experienced bug bites 31% of the time, a decrease of 34%

Key Points

  • Traditionally used to treat fevers, flu, and cold
  • Robust and lemony scent with a balsamic undertone
  • May promote faster recovery from athlete’s foot
  • Calming and revitalizing scent

Notable Constituents

  • Citriodiol
  • Citronellal
  • Citronellol
  • Neoisopulegol

Recommended Uses

  • Diffuse to relax and calm the body and mind
  • May encourage sleep in those fighting infection
  • Commonly used to treat fungal infections and cuts, herpes, scabs, and dandruff
  • Often used in all-natural bug repellents

Eucalyptus Dives

Eucalyptus Dives, otherwise known as the Broad-Leaved Peppermint, has a beautiful minty scent, making it one of the most soothing eucalyptus varieties. It may be used to support achy joints or areas of the body where you’re experiencing pain. 

One study found that eucalyptus and peppermint oils had a significant effect on participants experiencing headaches. Healthy participants in this study applied eucalyptus essential oil and peppermint essential oil to their forehead and temples. Participants experienced increased cognitive performance, reduced headaches, and lessened muscle tension and stress. 

Key Points

  • Known as the “minty” Eucalyptus variety
  • May relieve tension and achiness 
  • Calming and soothing
  • Strong, herbal scent with a slight tea tree undertone
  • Safer choice for use around children

Notable Constituents

  • Piperitone
  • alpha-Phellandrene 

Recommended Uses

  • Great for freshening up a space
  • Traditionally used to treat respiratory complaints, sinus infections, and acne-prone skin
  • May soothe arthritis and rheumatism - apply directly to tender areas in a carrier oil
  • Diffuse to promote reduced stress and help with headaches

Eucalyptus Globus 

Eucalyptus globus is considered the “standard” eucalyptus essential oil. It has many incredible benefits, including decongesting properties, promoting better breathing as a whole, and helping with skin infections. In one study, 48 participants diagnosed with allergic rhinitis experienced lessened coughing and itching in their oral cavity and throat after applying eucalyptus.

Traditionally, Eucalyptus globus is also used as a treatment for diabetes. Some studies have even shown that Eucalyptus globus may be a helpful antihyperglycemic dietary adjunct.  

Eucalyptus essential oil may also reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. In one study, knee replacement patients who inhaled eucalyptus for 30 minutes had lower blood pressure and a reported decrease in pain compared to the placebo group.

Key Points

  • Powerful, medicinal scent that is refreshing and woody
  • Known as the “Standard” Eucalyptus
  • Popular for its stimulating, cooling effect
  • Used in many over-the-counter decongestant and cough products
  • Appears in pain-relieving products and even mouthwash*

*Never ingest pure eucalyptus oil. Always consult with a doctor before using any essential oil internally. 

Notable Constituent

  • 1,8-Cineole

Recommended Uses

  • Using a carrier oil, massage into sore, achy areas of the body to soothe muscles
  • Apply to your pillow or diffuse in your bedroom to promote improved breathing
  • Inhale this essential oil to help open your breathing passages and sinuses
  • Apply to pulse points for a refreshing, energizing boost
  • Can be applied to skin infections, insect bites, and cuts to support better healing

We hope today’s piece on the different types of eucalyptus essential oils cleared up any confusion you may have had around them. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out! We’re happy to help you find what eucalyptus essential oil is best for you. 

Well Wishes, 

Natalie & Leilah