Anyone who has visited Australia would have seen eucalyptus trees, they are hard to miss. Almost all of the 700+ species of eucalyptus are native to Australia and, known commonly as gum trees, they make up nearly 80% of Australian forests. The trees are fast growing evergreens, and over the last few centuries they have been introduced all over the world, making them one of the most widely cultivated trees around. In addition to being attractive year-round tree, eucalyptus trees have many, many various uses. The wood itself is often used as fuel and as an affordable, sustainable alternative to hardwood in building since it grows so quickly and is extremely durable, and the bark of many eucalyptus species is used for making paper products. The leaves are even the main source of food and water for those adorable (but slightly grumpy) native Australian fur balls, koalas. Despite the leaves being toxic to humans and most animals, koalas have developed a digestive system capable of processing the leaves.

Eucalyptus essential oil is said to have dozens of benefits and has long been used by indigenous Australians to treat fungal infections and heal wounds. Used for centuries in traditional Indian, Chinese, Greek & European medicine, it is also quite common in modern medicine - you might be surprised to know that many chest rubs and decongestants for coughs, colds, chest infections and sinusitis contain eucalyptus oil. You don’t just have to take our word for it as recent scientific studies have shown that eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial properties and that is is a potent insect repellent. Other popular uses include headache relief, inflammation reduction, easing seasonal allergy symptoms and even sterilizing equipment.

At Lima Eco we love the fresh, invigorating fragrance of eucalyptus oil, and its many wonderful properties, especially when using our shower bombs to clear your airways and wake you up in the morning. Our Eucalyptus and Lemon soy candles, inspired by the clean, fresh air of Reykjavik, can help to gently cleanse your surroundings and should even keep insects away. Just remember not to ingest eucalyptus oil products, unless you’re a koala!