The benefits of Eucalyptus Oil have been well known throughout history. Since the onset of the Covid-19 virus, Eucalyptus Oil’s supply and demand numbers have sky-rocketed. While the benefits of Eucalyptus Oil are undeniable, it is imperative that the correct Eucalyptus Oil is being used. Utilising Eucalyptus Oils that are not up to standard could have detrimental health effects and serious legal ramifications.
The Importance of Eucalyptus Being BP spec. (British Pharmacopeia)
It is imperative that the Eucalyptus Oil is BP spec, meaning that it upholds the standards required for safety of use. For Eucalyptus Oil to be considered BP spec, the isovaleraldehyde found in Eucalyptus Oil must be removed. However, with the increased demand suppliers are unknowingly sourcing Eucalyptus Oil that has not undergone this process, selling potentially dangerous oil and products.
The Eucalyptus Oil as illustrated by British Pharmacopeia (BP) is a conventional specification that the Clive Teubes Group applies to its final Eucalyptus Oil product. Eucalyptus Oil is sourced locally in its crude form. This Oil then contains the volatile aldehyde known as isovaleraldehyde. This is a natural component that presents the crude product with a strong and off-putting top note. As a chemical, isovaleraldehyde is a skin and eye-irritant and thus exists as an unwanted component in the oOil. This subjective observation allowed for the aldehyde levels in Eucalyptus Oil to be defined and limited to a certain level within BP Specifications – so that isovaleraldehyde is suitably reduced or removed.
The crude Eucalyptus Oil available in South Africa, as Smithii, contains high levels isovaleraldehyde and fails on aldehyde level. The Teubes Eucalyptus Oil meets BP Specifications, having been processed to achieve international standards.
Why the Isovaleraldehyde Must Be Removed From Eucalyptus
- Isovaleraldehyde is a toxic substance
- It can cause digestive problems and burn the stomach
- If it is inhaled, it can cause irritations to the respiratory system
- If the skin is exposed to it, a rash and other skin irritations can occur
- If isovaleraldehyde gets into or close to a person’s eye, it can cause severe irritation and damage
Why Not All Eucalyptus Oils Are Created Equal
There are over 800 species of Eucalyptus trees, with only a fraction of these suitable for harvesting for essential oils. Of these species, only a handful of the varieties contain the relevant components that form part of the Oil’s natural anti-viral characteristics. International specifications guide producers to supply a standard, high-quality product and maintain purity. In South Africa, the Eucalyptus Smithii species is the variety used for medicinal purposes.
Imported Eucalyptus is not derived from this preferred species. Most imported Eucalyptus Oils would be of Eucalyptus Globulus, which is lower in cineol. Cineol is a colourless liquid found within Eucalyptus that increases the benefit of support to the respiratory system. Therefore, Eucalyptus Oils derived from species lower in cineol are less effective in offering respiratory support.
How to Know Which Eucalyptus Oil Meets These Standards
While the market is being flooded with a wide variety of Eucalyptus Oil providers, buying Eucalyptus Oil from ISO Certified manufacturers, such as the Clive Teubes Group, can provide some guarantee that the Oil will be both safe and effective.
Established in 1983, the Clive Teubes Group has been producing, distributing, and exporting superior quality products to both local and international markets for more than three decades. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, its offerings include: Esters, Essential Oils, Natural Extracts, Citrus Oils, Flavours & Fragrances, Indigenous Oils, Exotic Oils, Special Extracts, and Aromatics. For more information please request a product brochure from deliwe@teubes.com or visit www.teubes.com.