Eucalyptus globulus/Eucalyptus

pH 4.1–4.3

Aroma and Taste The smell is definitely eucalyptus but not as instantly camphoraceous as the oil. A bit unpleasant, particularly when applied neat to the skin, where it leaves a most disagreeable odor after it dries. Taste is strong, very bitter at first, with a powerful eucalyptus aftertaste; sweeten with honey for children.

Stability and Shelf Life Unknown, but appears stable; assumed to be eighteen months.

Properties and Applications Eucalyptus hydrosol is available for several of the different species, including E. globulus, E. radiata, E. polybractea and E. dives among others. Each has its own particular benefits and applications, just like the oils. I have not yet found hydrolate of E. citriodora.

Like the oil, eucalyptus hydrosol is the first line of defense against respiratory problems and infections, coughs, colds, chest infections, and hay fever–type allergies. It makes a good gargle, mouthwash, or cough syrup on its own or combined with essential oils at the rate of one drop of oil to one tablespoon of hydrosol per dose. At the onset of a cold or flu, take one teaspoon in a small amount of water every two hours on the first day that symptoms appear. It works even better if you combine it with “living embalming” two or three times a day, using palmarosa or ravensara essential oils.² If a respiratory infection takes hold, take the bihourly teaspoon dose in addition to drinking fifteen milliliters of eucalyptus and fifteen milliliters of Inula hydrosols dissolved in one liter of water per day. The hydrosol can be coupled with oils in inhalations, and oils may be applied topically to the entire thoracic area and the tops of the feet.

Very mildly diuretic, eucalyptus seems supportive to the hepatorenal system, enlivening both liver and kidney functions, improving excretion, and giving a general feeling of lightness. A Polish researcher is using it to tone and invigorate the pancreas.

Japanese research has shown eucalyptus to have reasonably strong antioxidant properties in both topical and internal use. An immune booster, it can be used in a prophylactic manner by practitioners who are in constant contact with clientele during flu season. Gently stimulating to both the mind and the body, E. globulus is useful when you’re feeling low or sick but must keep going.

AVOID undiluted topical or internal use for children under four years. Other species of Eucalyptus, such as E. radiata, are more appropriate for children.

Foeniculum vulgare/Fennel Seed

pH 4.0–4.1

Aroma and Taste Strong licorice odor with a sweet, almost sugary edge, although some are sweeter than others. Has been described as “anise and almonds.” Taste is very pungent; undiluted, the sweetness is almost undetectable, but it becomes more apparent the more it is diluted.

Stability and Shelf Life Moderately stable but variable. I have had some last for fourteen months or more and others that bloomed after only eight months—probably a result of distillation parameters and handling, as it is not that widely available.

Properties and Applications A powerful digestive, acting to relieve gas and bloating, stimulate peristalsis, reduce spasms and gripe in the intestines, and soothe nonspecific stomachaches. It has a general purifying effect on the entire digestive system but does not counteract all forms of heartburn and reflux, although this may be a function of the product variability.

Grosjean suggests drinking fennel hydrosol for cystitis, claiming relief can be achieved in just a few hours. Although fennel is not recommended during the first two trimesters of pregnancy, it is useful for new mothers after the birth, as it promotes lactation and can also help combat infant constipation. Spritz a little hydrosol on a tissue and place it near the baby, but do not spray it directly on the infant. The proximity of the aroma is usually enough to prompt a bowel movement.

Fennel has an interesting effect on the respiratory system. In some people it acts as a powerful decongestant and expectorant and may benefit allergy sufferers, smokers, and those prone to bronchitis and similar conditions. Perhaps combined with the known respiratory benefits of tarragon, with which it shares a licorice flavor, this may prove to be a useful allergy treatment and prophylactic.

Do not use it in cooking, as it is totally overpowering, although one drop can be interesting in strong-flavored dishes.

AVOID long-term use. For children under six years of age, do not give more than one drop at a time, and dilute it in water.