Eucalyptus is native to Australia, where it is the body and stomach food of koala bears. Worldwide cultivation takes place in warm climates such as the subtropical and Mediterranean zones. The drug material is imported mainly from Spain, Morocco and sometimes from Russia. Many eucalyptus species are also important suppliers of timber, but are also grown as ornamental plants.
Eucalyptus as a medicinal plant
In herbal medicine, the dried foliage (subsequent leaves) of older trees (Eucalypti folium) and the essential oil from them (Eucalypti aetheroleum) are used.
Eucalyptus: characteristics of the tree.
Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree, up to 60 m high, with a smooth trunk and typical exfoliating bark. The juvenile leaves are opposite, oval and slightly bluish, while the subsequent leaves are alternate, sickle-shaped and drooping. The tree bears large white flowers with a cap-like hood that pops off when it blooms.
The name “eucalyptus” comes from the Greek and means “well hidden”. This refers to the seeds that hide under the hood-like closed calyx.
Leaves as a medicine
Eucalyptus leaves used as a drug are up to 25 cm long, weakly crescent-shaped bent and stalked. The main vein of the leaves can be clearly seen, especially on the underside. The smooth leaf edge is somewhat thickened.
If you hold the leaves against the light, you can see many small dark dots, which are the excretory vessels.
Eucalyptus: smell and taste.
The leaves smell very aromatic, especially when crushed, the smell is reminiscent of camphor. The taste of eucalyptus leaves is slightly bitter and astringent (astringent).
