Eucalyptus oil

Product Specification

Product Description

Medicinal and antiseptic[edit] The cineole-based oil is used as component in pharmaceutical preparations to relieve the symptoms of influenza and colds, in products like cough sweets, lozenges, ointments and inhalants. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial effects on pathogenic bacteria in the respiratory tract.[5] Inhaled eucalyptus oil vapor is a decongestant and treatment for bronchitis.[6] Cineole controls airway mucus hypersecretion and asthma via anti-inflammatory cytokine inhibition.[7][8] Pre-clinical results also show that eucalyptus oil stimulates innate cell-mediated immune response by effects on the phagocytic ability of human monocyte derived macrophages.[9] Flavouring[edit] Eucalyptus oil is used in flavouring. Cineole-based eucalyptus oil is used as a flavouring at low levels (0.002%) in various products, including baked goods, confectionery, meat products and beverages.[15] Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial activity against a broad range of foodborne human pathogens and food spoilage microorganisms.[16] Non-cineole peppermint gum, strawberry gum and lemon ironbark are also used as flavouring. Fragrance[edit] Eucalyptus oil is also used as a fragrance component to impart a fresh and clean aroma in soaps, detergents, lotions and perfumes. It is known for its pungent, intoxicating scent. Industrial[edit] Research shows that cineole-based eucalyptus oil (5% of mixture) prevents the separation problem with ethanol and petrol fuel blends. Eucalyptus oil also has a respectable octane rating and can be used as a fuel in its own right. However, production costs are currently too high for the oil to be economically viable as a fuel.[17] Phellandrene- and piperitone-based eucalyptus oils have been used in mining to separate sulfide minerals via flotation.