EUCALYPTUS CITRIODORA
Eucalyptus citriodora, also known as lemon eucalyptus or Corymbia citriodora, is a species of eucalyptus valued for its refreshing, lemon-like scent and a broad range of therapeutic properties. Unlike the more camphoraceous varieties of eucalyptus, lemon eucalyptus contains high levels of citronellal, which gives it distinct actions especially useful for respiratory health, anti-inflammatory support, and natural insect repellent. Energetically it has a strong impact on the health rays and can be purifying, especially for elementals.
Applications: Topical, Body Tonic, Ointment, Massage Oil, Salt Bath, Foot Bath, Neat, Sustained Inhalation, Diffuser, Thera-lotion, Thera-soap, Gargle
*do not take internally
Therapeutic Properties
1. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic
- Lemon eucalyptus has powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it highly effective in relieving:
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Arthritis
- Tendinitis
- Muscle Tension
- Deposits in Joints
- Trigger Finger
- Arthritis
- It helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow when used in massage oils or liniments.
2. Respiratory Support
- While not as expectorant as traditional eucalyptus (E. globulus), it still offers mild respiratory support by:
- Clearing nasal passages
- Soothing coughs
- Opening airways
- Asthma
- Laryngitis
- Sore Throat
- Painful Respiratory Conditions
- Its gentle action makes it suitable for children and those who are sensitive to stronger eucalyptus types.
3. Antimicrobial and Anti fungal
- Rich in citronellal and citronellol, this essential oil exhibits strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
- Useful for:
- Topical infections
- Fungal skin conditions like athlete’s foot
- Cleaning surfaces or diffusing to purify the air
4. Insect Repellent
- Eucalyptus citriodora is best known for its role as a natural insect repellent.
- It is the primary source of PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol), an EPA-approved repellent effective against:
- It’s a popular alternative to synthetic repellents like DEET, especially in natural formulations.
5. Skin Healing and Cooling
- It has a cooling, astringent effect on the skin, which is useful for:
- Insect bites
- Minor burns or irritations
- Inflamed skin conditions
- Athlete’s Foot
- Dandruff
- Herpes, Cold Sores
- Scabs, Sores
- Often used in balms or sprays for soothing the skin and reducing redness.
6. Mental Clarity and Uplifting
- The fresh, lemony scent has mood-lifting and mentally clarifying effects.
- Used in aromatherapy to:
- Enhance focus and alertness
- Reduce mental fatigue
- Alleviate feelings of heaviness or emotional stagnation
- Anxiety, Fear
- Elevating
7. Immune Support
- Its antimicrobial and slightly stimulating properties make it useful in boosting the body’s natural defenses, especially during cold or flu season.
- It can be diffused, inhaled, or used in chest rubs for immune reinforcement.
- Colds, Fevers, Infections (especially Staphylococcus Aureus)
- Chickenpox
- Contagious Conditions