Eucalyptus Oil Comparison Matrix
| Feature / Oil | Globulus (Blue Gum) | Radiata | Smithii | Dives (Peppermint Eucalyptus) | Citriodora (Lemon Eucalyptus) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Active Molecule(s) | 1,8-Cineole (>80%), α-pinene | 1,8-Cineole, mild cineole | 1,8-Cineole, mild cineole | 1,8-Cineole (>80%), α-pinene | Citronellal, lemony aldehydes |
| Aroma Profile | Typical sharp, camphoraceous, fresh | Softer, sweet, fresh, herbal | Crisp, gentle, fresh | Minty-camphorous, strong, penetrating | Fresh, sweet, lemon, slight spice |
| Best Uses | Short-term, strong respiratory support, air sanitizing, immunity, congestion, muscle pain | Respiratory, mild & long-term congestion, children, decongestant, immune-boost | Children, sensitive, elderly; mild congestion, relaxing, muscle/joint | Rapid respiratory relief for adults; decongestant, immunity, sinus | Insect repellent, joint/muscle pain, air freshening, deodorizing |
| Respiratory Support | +++ | +++ (ideal for kids, sensitive) | +++ (gentle, kids/elderly) | +++ (powerful for adults) | ++ (mild and indirect) |
| Muscle/Joint Pain | ++ | ++ | ++ | ++ | +++ (especially joints, insect bites) |
| Immune Boost | +++ | +++ | ++ | +++ | ++ |
| Insect Repellent Action | + | + | + | + | +++ (very effective) |
| Deodorizing / Air Purifying | +++ | +++ | +++ | ++ | +++ |
| Children (Topical/Direct) | ❌ Not recommended under 10 years | ✔ Safe for children (>3 mos in diffusion, not skin) | ✔ Safe for children (>3 mos in diffusion, not skin) | ❌ Not recommended for kids | ✔ Can diffuse after 3 months but not on skin |
| Pregnancy/Nursing | ❌ Avoid | ❌ Avoid first trimester | ❌ Avoid first trimester | ❌ Avoid | ❌ Avoid major topical use during pregnancy |
| Sensitive Skin/People | Can irritate – use caution & always dilute | Gentler, preferred | Very gentle, ideal | Strong, can irritate – dilute & blend with softer oils | Mild, generally well tolerated |
| Senior/Elderly Use | Use with caution | Preferred | Ideal | Avoid prolonged/strong use | Generally well tolerated |
| Asthma / Epilepsy / High BP | ❌ Avoid | Use with caution | Preferred | ❌ Avoid | More suitable, but always monitor |
| Special Cautions/Safety | Adults/teens only. Not for face or continuous diffusion. Blend with softer oils for safety | Safe for kids/elderly if properly diluted. Not for undiluted use. | Safe for babies/kids (diffusion, not skin), suitable for frequent use | Reserve for adult respiratory blends. Can be irritating topically or diffused. | Diffuse freely, dilute for topical. Watch allergy risk. |
| Shelf Life | ~5 years | ~5–6 years | ~5 years | ~5 years | ~5 years |
| Origin | Australia | South Africa | South Africa / Eswatini | Australia | Madagascar / Malawi |
Quick Reference Keys:
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+++ = Excellent or most powerful effect for this use
-
++ = Good or typical use
-
-
= Minor effect or secondary
-
-
❌ = Not recommended/Should be avoided
-
✔ = Generally safe with proper dilution/guidelines
Use Case Guidance
-
For children/sensitive/elderly:
Prefer Radiata and Smithii in diffusion; avoid direct/topical use of Globulus and Dives; Citriodora diffusion is OK but avoid on skin. -
For strong respiratory decongestion, immunity boost:
Globulus and Dives are best for adults, short-term use. -
For gentle, longer-term immune/respiratory support:
Radiata and Smithii. -
For insect repellent, joint/muscle pain, air deodorizing:
Citriodora (Lemon Eucalyptus) is superior. -
During pregnancy/nursing:
Avoid all for topical/direct use; diffusion of Radiata/Smithii/Citriodora may be permissible after first trimester at low doses, but always consult your healthcare provider.