Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is a plant used in Ayurveda. Do not ingest undiluted essential oil. Bioavailability: Eucalyptus globulus essential oil is dominated by 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol, 60-85%). Cineole has excellent oral bioavailability (>70%) when given in enteric-coated form, with rapid absorption and distribution to respiratory tissues.
| Botanical name | Eucalyptus globulus |
|---|---|
| Identity source | Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. V: TAILAPARNAH (Leaf) |
| Also called | Eucalyptus polybractea / Eucalyptus smithii (and other cineole-rich species) (attribution recorded without a cited source) Corymbia citriodora (syn. Eucalyptus citriodora Hook.) (attribution recorded without a cited source) |
| Family | Myrtaceae · other entries in this family |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Taxon identifiers | GBIF 3176787 · Wikidata Q159528 · NCBI Taxonomy 34317 |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Eucalyptus |
What is it made of?
Key Active Markers
- Derived from constituent herbs (see individual herb profiles)
- Standardized on primary bioactive markers
Analytical Methods: HPLC fingerprinting, TLC (identity), LC-MS/MS (marker quantification)
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Essential oil (primary), Inhalation (steam/vaporizer), Capsule (enteric-coated oil), Lozenge, Ointment/balm, Chest rub, Tincture
Standard Dosage: Essential oil: 2-4 drops for steam inhalation; 200-600mg cineole in enteric-coated capsules daily (divided doses); topical: 1-3% in carrier; lozenges: as directed. Do not ingest undiluted essential oil.
Bioavailability: Eucalyptus globulus essential oil is dominated by 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol, 60-85%). Cineole has excellent oral bioavailability (>70%) when given in enteric-coated form, with rapid absorption and distribution to respiratory tissues. Inhalation provides direct delivery to respiratory epithelium with systemic absorption via pulmonary circulation. Dermal absorption of cineole from topical preparations is moderate (5-10%) but sufficient for local anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. First-pass metabolism is significant - enteric coating bypasses gastric degradation. Cineole is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4.
Optimal Timing: Steam inhalation: as needed for congestion, 2-3 times daily; oral capsules: after meals to reduce GI discomfort; topical: as needed, up to 3-4 times daily; chest rub: at bedtime
Standardized Extract: Essential oil: Ph. Eur. grade standardized to NLT 70% 1,8-cineole by GC-FID. Pharmaceutical isolate: 99%+ cineole (eucalyptol). Leaf dry extract: NLT 2% total polyphenols.
Shelf Life: 3-5 years (essential oil in sealed amber glass); 2 years (capsules); 2 years (ointment/balm); 3 years (lozenges)
Storage: Essential oil: tightly sealed amber glass bottles, cool dark place (15-25 deg C). Keep away from heat sources and open flame. Capsules: below 25 deg C in blister packs. Child-resistant closure mandatory.
Marker Compounds: 1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol), Alpha-pinene, Limonene, Alpha-terpineol, Globulol, Aromadendrene, p-Cymene
Extraction Methods
- Steam distillation of fresh leaves (industrial standard)
- Hydrodistillation
- Supercritical CO2 extraction (premium quality)
- Solvent extraction for oleoresin
- Molecular distillation for pharmaceutical-grade cineole isolation
Synergistic Combinations
- With Menthol (Pudina) for enhanced decongestant effect
- With Camphor for chest rub formulations
- With Tea tree oil for antimicrobial synergy
- With Nilgiri Taila in traditional respiratory formulations
- With Tulsi for immune-respiratory support
Available from Age Ayurveda
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Nitya Naturals BalmAn external balm, traditionally used to support muscle and joint comfort.
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