Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus globulus (the usual oil; E. radiata is a softer alternative)

Top note Herbal Fresh & clean Essential oil

Piercing, camphor-cool and medicinal-clean, like a steam room. At high levels it smells like cough drops. E. radiata is softer and slightly fruitier.

Made from: Steam-distilled from the leaves of the Tasmanian blue gum (or the narrow-leaved peppermint gum for E. radiata).
Strength: ●●●●● a little goes a long way
Cost: Budget
Moods: Refreshing Clean Energizing
Seasons: Winter, Spring
Rooms: Bathroom, Laundry, Entryway

Blend with it

Cautions

Caution around pets (especially cats and birds) — don't diffuse in their space
Not for diffusing around young children
Fades quickly — weak in cold-process soap or at hot throw

Cineole-rich eucalyptus is commonly advised against diffusing near babies and young children, and it is toxic to cats and dogs. E. radiata is often chosen as the gentler option for adults.

How it behaves

CandlesGood

Strong cold throw and a decent hot throw. Pairs well with spearmint in 'spa' candles.

Wax meltsGreat

Reed diffuserGreat

Room & linen sprayGreat

Electric (water) diffuserGreat

Cold-process soapGood

Fades noticeably in cold process over cure. Use the upper part of your safe range, or anchor it with a base note (or a eucalyptus fragrance oil) so the bar still smells of it in six weeks.

Melt-and-pour soapGreat

Laundry & cleaningGreat

A classic cleaning-spray scent. Its sharp note reads as 'clean'.