Eucalyptus Essentials

 Eucalyptus Essentials: Main differences between Eucalyptus Radiata and Eucalyptus Blue Gum Essential Oils & How to Use with Your Family

These perennial favorite essential oils best-sellers have similar properties, but the main differences are that the softer (but still potent) Euc. Radiata is best for treating upper respiratory and sinus issues, and can be used with children more safely, while the Euc. Blue Gum has stronger expectorant characteristics for treating adult respiratory issues, and has more robust antibacterial effects, as per studies. All Eucalyptus oils are only to be used for inhalant or topical (external) therapeutic uses. The Radiata (Eucalyptus Radiata) is effective for treating flu, and upper respiratory tract infections, including to relieve symptoms of rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis. It is also the best choice for use with children, because it is softer and safer in character. In addition, it features expectorant and antiseptic properties. Eucalyptus Radiata effects are boosted when combined with terpene-rich essential oils, such as Cinnamon, Lemon (safest for children), or Rosemary (Cineole). Both the Eucalyptus Radiata and Blue Gum oils can be applied topically in a carrier oil, as is usual practice with essential oils, and used with caution around sensitive mucous membrane areas. Carrier oils can be Almond, Jojoba, Grapeseed, or in fact, anything you may have at home if needed in a pinch, such as coconut, olive or sesame oil. Or, they can be slowly, deeply inhaled over 5-10 minutes, from a bowl of boiling water (or facial steamer) with 4-12 drops added into the water. Either Eucalyptus oil can also be diffused throughout a room with a nebulizer, or they are excellent for use in a sauna, where an oil can be mixed at 4 drops per litre into a water spray bottle, and misted frequently onto the rocks or benches. This will also disinfect the sauna. Besides the Eucalyptus, a nice sauna combination can include Birch (Sweet), Orange (Sweet), Peppermint, and Pine (White) oils. Unless your sauna is already rich enough in cedar aroma, you could also add Cedarwood (Western Red) or Cedarwood (Atlas) for a more classic, pungent Cedar effect. The Blue Gum (Eucalyptus Globulus) is stronger, more intense, and is the classic cough drops or Vick's-type pungent Eucalyptus for treating congested lung issues and dissolving phlegm (expectorant, anti-catarrhal). It soothes respiratory discomfort, and is also antibacterial, a mosquito and flea repellent, and can kill dust mites when used in wash cycles. It is contraindicated for use with very young children. All Eucalyptus oils will assist with anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relieving) treatments, alone or in making your own joint or muscle pain/stiffness treatment blends. Other essential oils effective for this blend include Basil (either Holy or Tropical versions), Bay (St. Thomas), Birch (Sweet), Cajeput, Chamomile (German), Frankincense, Juniper Berry, Manuka, Peppermint, and Wintergreen oils. Again, mix your selections within a base of one or more carrier oils, but begin by mixing just the essential oils together, shake up, and then mix in the carrier oil(s) last, and shake again. As a general ratio suggestion, mix 5 to 10 drops of each essential oil per each 10 ml (2 generous teaspoons) of carrier oil. Experiment with the strength and potency that you prefer, and ask your favorite retail store consultant for ideas. Some health products retailers also sell empty glass bottles and caps or spray-tops, to use for making your own custom blends. Note that with Manuka, as with many essential oils, actual quality and genuine authenticity and purity are highly variable among suppliers, because the plants themselves often inter-breed and can be difficult to verify. So, look for brands that list the main identifying chemotypes on the bottle (therapeutic plant chemicals which prove a specific plant and essential oil effectiveness). These brands have tested the oil batches to prove identification and 100% genuine purity. Also look for parts of the plant used and country of origin, because these factors cause large variations, as well. Divine Essence sources all its genuine, natural essential oils directly from artisan producers around the globe, without added brokers in between, in fairly traded, supportive transactions. Most are Certified Organic where possible, or sustainably wild-crafted, and Divine Essence is the first essential oils line to achieve Health Canada NPNs (Natural Product Numbers). Each batch is extensively tested for absolute therapeutic quality, identity and purity, free of microbial or chemical contaminants. Ultimately, though: You can Smell the Difference! Thank You, have Happy Holidays, and enjoy using and sharing these fine Eucalyptus Oils!