What are the benefits of eucalyptus globulus essential oil for the skin?

Originally from Australia, the common eucalyptus now grows in several regions of the world, including Portugal, California, Chile, South Africa, and India. The Latin name "globulus" refers to the shape of the fruit's operculum. This species of eucalyptus was nicknamed the "fever tree" as it was used in traditional medicine to treat malaria.

The steam distillation of common eucalyptus stems and leaves allows for the extraction of essential oil. To recap, this method involves mixing and heating the branches with water in a still, then cooling the steam in a condenser to recover it in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, then floats on the surface. This water is none other than the hydrosol.

The essential oil thus obtained predominantly containseucalyptol (1,8-cineole) and, to a lesser extent,alpha-pinene. It also has a significant amount of limonene (between 1 and 15%), which varies depending on the environment. These active substances give this oil its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

When applied topically, this essential oil is particularly recommended for combination to oily skin types due to the properties described below:

• It regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands.

  As a reminder, the sebaceous glands secrete sebum, a lipid film that protects the skin from pathogenic microorganisms and dehydration. However, usually under the influence of hormonal fluctuations, sebum can be produced in excess: this is referred to as'hyperseborrhea'. The skin appears oily or even shiny and the pores are clogged, leading to the appearance of imperfections. Through its reducing action on the size of the sebaceous glands, the eucalyptus globulus essential oil regulates sebum production and rebalances combination to oily skin.

• As an anti-inflammatory, it reduces redness and soothes any potential discomfort associated with blemishes.

  Eucalyptol, also known as 1,8-cineole, is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that modulates the body's response to infection and soothes sensations of heat, and the resulting redness.

• With its antibacterial properties, it purifies the skin.

  Eucalyptol, a component of the essential oil from the globulus eucalyptus, can also act against the bacteria that cause acne, helping to regulate their population. By disrupting the bacterial cell wall, this active ingredient makes it more permeable, leading to the release of proteins and nucleic acids essential for bacterial growth.

Note : The essential oil of Eucalyptus globulus is also recommended for oily hair. It combats excess sebum and the appearance of oily dandruff.