Medicinal Plant: Eucaliptus
Scientific Name: Eucalyptus globulus Eucalyptus has more than 680 species, most native to Australia and others extending northward to Malaysia, Tanzania and the Philippines. Eucalyptus is among the tallest trees in the world some species top 450 feet in height. Eucalyptus has played a significant role in Australian Aboriginal culture for many thousands of years. Larger Eucalyptus trees store considerable quantities of water in their roots, and during droughts were a handy source of drinking water. Eucalyptus globulus is the best know and most widespread species, planted and naturalized in warm temperature, subtropical, and tropical climates throughout the world. The species name globulus, or globe shaped, refers to the juvenile leaves or alternatively the shape of the fruit. Aborigines made ointments and rubs containing eucalyptus oil taken from crushed leaves, and these were applied tot he skin to heal minor woun...