Eucalyptus Dives
Other names: Blue peppermint, blue mint, broadleaf mint
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Eucalyptus Dives, also known as Blue Peppermint, Blue Mint or Broadleaf Mint, is a tree native to Australia. It is one of the many varieties of eucalyptus found naturally in the southern hemisphere. The tree grows to a height of 25 to 30 metres and is characterised by its broad, glossy leaves that give off a strong, spicy scent. The bark is smooth and silver in younger trees, but turns rough and grey with age. The tree flowers from September to January and produces small white flowers.
Eucalyptus Dives has a wide range of uses, mainly due to its high content of essential oils, which are obtained by distilling its leaves. This oil is characterized by its high content of p-cymene and 1,8-cineole, making it popular in aromatherapy and the production of scented candles and soaps. While p-cymene has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, 1,8-cineole is expectorant and helps to relax the airways. Because of these properties, eucalyptus dives oil is also used in massage oils and balms for relief from muscle and joint pain. In addition, its strong scent has repellent properties and is often used to deter insects, including mosquitoes. Eucalyptus dives is also used in industry as a natural solvent.