• The "cineole" level of eucalyptus oil determines price and value.eucalyptus image by lye from Fotolia.com
  
  Eucalyptus essential oil is distilled from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. This fresh-scented, colorless oil has many uses, from medicines to perfumes to cleaning solutions. Eucalyptus oil has many health benefits, as it is naturally anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongesting, deodorizing, antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial and stimulating. Eucalyptus originated in Australia and tree growth has spread throughout the world.
  
  

Medicinal

• Used for mental exhaustion, eucalyptus stimulates and rejuvenates the mind.male Monarch butterfliy in a eucalyptus tree in California image by Jeffrey Banke from Fotolia.com
  
  Eucalyptus essential oil aids in the treatment of many respiratory conditions including asthma, colds, coughs and bronchitis. This oil is found as a main ingredient in many throat sprays and lozenges, as well as inhalers, ointments and chest rubs that help ease breathing. Eucalyptus oil is found in compounds and rubs used for aches and pains. It is also used in mouthwashes and antiseptics for its germicidal properties. Eucalyptus oil helps clean and heal cuts and wounds, as well as burns and insect bites.
  
  

Perfumes

• Australia has over 600 species of Eucalpytus, also known as "gum trees."koala image by Gerd Reiber from Fotolia.com
  
  Many soaps, perfumes and lotions are derived from eucalyptus essential oil. The fragrant, fresh scent and naturally stimulating nature of the oil make it a top choice for scented products that are invigorating and refreshing. A small drop of oil dabbed on the neck serves as the purest form of perfume. Solid perfume is made from wax and infused with eucalyptus essential oil. Acqua di Parma and Creed Windsor are two perfumes that contain eucalyptus notes (varying degrees of the scent).
  
  

Household Use

• A few drops of oil around a candle wick provides refreshing aroma.candle image by Amjad Shihab from Fotolia.com
  
  Clean, disinfect and deodorize with a solution of water and eucalyptus essential oil. A spray bottle filled with water and 1 to 2 tsps. of the oil acts as a natural bacteria and germ killer. Spray in the air to freshen a hallway, or use the solution to sanitize your bathroom. Use in laundry detergents as well to invoke a clean scent. Make you own laundry freshener by adding 1 to 2 tsps. of the oil in a wash load. Candles are infused with eucalyptus oil as well for aromatherapy. Used in neat form (not diluted), eucalyptus easily removes residue such as decals or stickers from glass.