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Benefits of Eucalyptus Dives Essential Oil and Uses in Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus dives essential oil has three chemotypes:

  • Eucalyptus dives var. Type, which is high in piperitone
  • Eucalyptus dives var. C., which is high in 1,8-cineole
  • Eucalyptus dives var. 'A', which is high in alpha-pellandrene

The first chemotype listed, also written as Eucalyptus dives ct. piperitone, is the most commonly used in aromatherapy and is the subject of this profile. Piperitone is a ketone that reduces mucus and offers respiratory support but is gentler than the 1,8-cineole in other respiratory-supporting eucalyptus essential oils.

Basic Eucalyptus Dives Facts

This essential oil is also called peppermint eucalyptus, eucalyptus peppermint, blue peppermint, peppermint gum, or broad-leaved or broad-leaf peppermint. (Note: Peppermint eucalyptus can also refer to a different oil: Eucalyptus piperita. It's not commonly used in aromatherapy. Always check the Latin names on the essential oils you buy.)

Plant family: Myrtaceae.

Production: Steam distilled from fresh leaves and twigs.

Aroma: Fresh, minty, herbaceous.

Perfume/Aromatic note: Top.

Is eucalyptus dives safe to use during pregnancy? No, according to Aromatica: A Clinical Guide to Essential Oil Therapeutics, Vol. I, and other sources (due to the piperitone).

Is eucalyptus dives safe for children? Do not use with babies, according to Aromatica. (Some sources say not to use with children under age 3.)

Main components: Pipertone at about 54% and alpha-phellandrene at about 17%, according to Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Ed.

Eucalyptus Dives Essential Oil Benefits and Uses

The benefits of eucalyptus peppermint oil are similar to other eucalyptus oils, but this oil has a gentler aroma and action.

This list of uses is compiled from The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy and The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (updated edition):

  • Abdominal cramps, leg cramps, menstrual cramps
  • Acne and pimples
  • Arthritis and rheumatism
  • Candida
  • Cellulite
  • Colds, flu, coughs, catarrh, fever, and throat and mouth infections
  • Exhaustion and fatigue
  • Head lice
  • Headaches, including sinus headaches, and migraines
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Minor skin wounds, including cuts, sores, ulcers
  • Muscle aches and pains, sports injuries, sprains
  • Neuralgia
  • Respiratory conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis

Respiratory and Immune Care

Eucalyptus dives loosens mucus and decongests in both acute and chronic respiratory conditions, according to Aromatica. The oil also has a diuretic, detoxifying effect on liver and kidney functions.

The best use is in chest or back rubs or for direct inhalation.

To relieve the symptoms of colds and flu associated with bronchial congestion, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Third Edition, Vol. 1, suggests blending eucalyptus dives with 1,8-cineole eucalyptus oils, cajeput, fragonia, ginger, lemon, lemon eucalyptus, lemon myrtle, neroli, pine, rosalina, or tea tree.

Easy Breathing Inhaler for Adults

Blend oils. Drop onto the cotton wick of an aromatherapy inhaler. Use several times daily.

Kid Friendly Breathe Freely Chest Rub

  • 1 drop eucalyptus dives
  • 1 drop cedarwood essential oil
  • 2 drops frankincense essential oil
  • 2 drops juniper berry essential oil
  • 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
  • 1-ounce lotion pump bottle

Drop oils into bottle. Close bottle and shake to blend. To use, rub on chest.

Source: Loving Essential Oils

Skin and Hair Care

The Essential Guide to Natural Skin Care suggests using eucalyptus dives essential oil for oily and acne-prone skin and for oily hair, while Original Swiss Aromatics states the oil is effective in blends for congested, impure skin and acne.

Overactive Skin Blend

Use this blend for overactive skin and acne caused by overactive oil glands.

  • 10 drops eucalyptus dives
  • 10 drops either inula graveolens or green myrtle essential oil
  • 10 drops spike lavender essential oil
  • 10 drops rosemary ct. verbenone essential oil
  • 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon hazelnut oil

Adapted from Advanced Aromatherapy

Keratosis, Corns, or Callus Relief

  • 20 drops eucalyptus dives
  • 20 drops rosemary ct. camphor essential oil
  • 10 drops wintergreen essential oil
  • 10 drops Scots pine essential oil
  • 40 drops rosehip oil

Apply a few drops locally two times a day until you see improvement.

Adapted from Contemporary French Aromatherapy

Muscle Care

To relieve muscle tightness, Aromatics suggests combining eucalyptus dives and frankincense essential oil in a roll-on blend.

Sore Muscle Rub

  • 2 tablespoons carrier oil
  • 11 drops eucalyptus dives
  • 7 drops juniper berry essential oil
  • 5 drops sweet marjoram essential oil
  • 5 drops roman chamomile essential oil

Blend oils. Use as needed on sosre muscles. Source: Plant Therapy

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Use this oil for mental clarity to help lift the fog when your thoughts feel sluggish or your mood feels heavy, according to the Aromahead Newsletter. The oil also helps relieve nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue, and apathy, while increasing clarity of thought and supporting concentration, according to Base Formula.

The stimulating and uplifting scent of eucalyptus dives helps revitalize the senses and freshen your space. Suggested diffuser blend for a mental boost:

  • 2 drops eucalyptus dives
  • 2 drops rosemary essential oil
  • 1 drop lemon myrtle essential oil

Use according to your aromatherapy diffuser's instructions. Source: Plant Therapy

Peppermint Eucalyptus FAQ

Can I use eucalyptus dives with dogs and cats?

This essential oil is not commonly used in animal aromatherapy because gentler alternatives are available, according to aromatherapist Amy Williams DeLong.

Can I use eucalyptus dives for cleaning?

Yes, the fresh, clean scent works well in cleaning products. To make a multipurpose cleaner, mix 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, and 10 drops eucalyptus dives in a reusable spray bottle. Shake well before use. For greater cleaning power, also add 1 tablespoon liquid castile soap.

Can I use eucalyptus dives to support the chakras?

Use the oil for the fourth (heart) chakra to support unconditional love and the sixth (third eye) chakra for perspective and clarity and to purify and uplift, according to Stillpoint Aromatics.


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