Type of plant: Tree growing to 100 feet with black bark at the lower level and smooth bark at the top, with thin, lance-shaped leaves and numerous flowers

Part used: Leaves and twigs

Method of extraction: Steam distillation

Data: The natural habitat of this tree is along banks of creeks or rivers and coastal mountain ranges in New South Wales, Australia. The tree is known as river white gum and has more oil glands in its leaves than other eucalyptus species. The first known record of Eucalyptus radiata distillation dates to 1898, although a Melbourne pharmacist was apparently using it decades before this. Today Eucalyptus radiata is considered the most appropriate eucalyptus oil for general aromatherapy use.

Principal places of production: Australia, Tasmania, South Africa, Russia

When buying look for: A thin, colorless to yellow-tinged liquid with a softer eucalyptus aroma and a slightly woody note. Also known as Eucalyptus australiana.

Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitussive, antiviral, expectorant, febrifuge, immunostimulant, pectoral, tonic, vulnerary

Therapeutic uses: Respiratory tract infection, bronchitis, catarrh, sinusitis, rhinitis, colds, influenza, fever, asthma, rheumatism, muscular aches and pains, neuralgia, abdominal cramp, menstrual cramp, headaches, mental exhaustion, fatigue, insect stings and bites; general stimulant and tonic

Blends well with: Basil linalol, black pepper, cedarwood, chamomile german, chamomile roman, elemi, eucalyptus peppermint, eucalyptus radiata, fragonia, geranium, grapefruit, immortelle, juniper berry, lavandin, lavender, lemon, manuka, niaouli, pine, ravensara, ravintsara, rosemary, tangerine, tea tree, thyme linalol

Precautionary advice: No contraindications known