Fragrant plant oil whose active constituents are found in the leaves and the oil obtained from them. The oil has antimicrobial and antifungal activity, but is also a potent skin irritant due to its chemical components, some of which are toxic and can be fatal when ingested. Truly a mixed bag, because this oil, like rosemary oil, is one that has benefits and risks. Because the risks are primarily with topical application to skin, eucalyptus oil is an ingredient to avoid (Sources:
www.naturaldatabase.com;
Basic Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, June 2006, pages 575-581).
See
eucalyptus extract
