The Oily Life

Which Eucalyptus Should I Use?

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Eucalyptus is a mainstay in our oil arsenal, and for good reason! This crisp and fresh oil is wonderful for cleaning, relaxing and immune and respiratory support and is often in our diffusers and roller blends. Eucalyptus is also a great choice for soothing joints & muscles and is found in the OrthoEase and OrthoSport massage oils! It is a household staple for sure. And if you find yourself wondering which types of eucalyptus are best and what the differences are, you're in the right place!

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DIFFERENT TYPES OF EUCALYPTUS There are different Eucalyptus oils because there are many different varieties of the Eucalyptus plant – more than 700 species! There are three main varieties of oil available, and each variety is steam distilled individually, using the leaves of the plant. All eucalyptus varieties will have similar properties - cleansing, respiratory and immune support, soothing to muscles and joints - but each has its own unique scent and nuance!

  • Eucalyptus Blue Eucalyptus Blue is grown in Ecuador and is used by natives for repelling insects and covering wounds. It has a very balanced chemistry and is the only Eucalyptus variety that does not cause an allergic reaction in individuals who have a eucalyptol allergy. Eucalyptus blue has a very herbaceous and spicy aroma which is great for respiratory support and is a key ingredient in the Breathe Again roll-on.
  • Eucalyptus Globulus Eucalyptus Globulus is grown in China and is wonderful for respiratory support and soothing sore muscles. It has a bold and rich aroma and is found in the OrthoEase and OrthoSport massage oils, the Breathe Again roll-on, and the oil blend RC, which stands for Respiratory Congestion.
  • Eucalyptus Radiata Eucalyptus Radiata is grown in Australia and has a striking, citrusy scent. This species of Eucalyptus has been treasured in folk medicine for centuries and used by natives for many immune supporting purposes. Eucalyptus radiata is found in Thieves oil and Raven oil blends.

AT A GLANCE USAGE GUIDE

  • Want the cliff notes version of which eucalyptus oil to use? We've got you covered!
  • Wanting some respiratory TLC → Any of them!
  • Creating a spa-like atmosphere → Eucalyptus Blue
  • Soothing muscles and joints → Eucalyptus Globulus
  • Needing a little immune support → Eucalyptus Radiata
  • Little ones need some help → SniffleEase or Eucalyptus Blue
  • Cleaning and laundry needs → Any variety, though we like Eucalyptus Radiata for its crisp, clean aroma

USING EUCALYPTUS ESSENTIAL OIL Eucalyptus is wonderful to diffuse and pairs well with Lavender, Cedarwood, Copaiba, and Pine oils (it's great with Lavender to create an at-home spa!). You can also add Eucalyptus to your laundry, wool dryer balls, and linen sprays. Eucalyptus is wonderful for DIY chest rubs and epsom salts baths when your immune or respiratory systems need a little TLC.

EUCALYPTUS AND CHILDREN Eucalyptus in all its varieties, like Peppermint, can be a warming oil with a strong or "spicy" smell. So with little ones, we like to start using it on their feet diluted with your favorite carrier oil. The reflex point on the bottom of the feet to support the lungs is the large pad up under their toes. This is a great way to support their little respiratory systems!

If you want a great, ready-to-go Eucalyptus product for littles, check out the SniffleEase blend and roll-on. This pre-diluted blend of coconut oil, Eucalyptus Blue, and other beneficial oils is perfect for family members age 2 and up.