The growth rate of eucalyptus is 1 meter per year
Eucalyptus is a concept that comes from the scientific Latin eucalyptus , in turn derived from the Greek language: eû (which can be translated as "well" ) and kalyptós (which means "covered" ). A eucalyptus is a tree that is part of the Myrtaceae family group.
General characteristics
Native to Australian territory, the eucalyptus can reach a height of about one hundred meters. It has a straight trunk with a conical crown, lanceolate leaves, yellowish flowers and fruit with multiple seeds.
The wood and leaves of the eucalyptus are used in different ways. It is common for eucalyptus trees to be planted by the logging and paper industries as they grow quickly. We are talking about an average of 1 meter per year, something that places it among the plants with the highest development rate per unit of time on the entire planet.
Reforestation and risks
This growth also invites the use of eucalyptus in reforestation plans . However, attention must be paid to ecological balance and not affect biodiversity .
The variety of species in the same ecosystem is not something that we should take lightly, since the planet develops and is sustained based on balance, on the joint work of many organisms and phenomena designed perfectly to complement each other. Removing or altering just one of them, something that human beings have been doing for thousands of years, brings consequences of varying severity .
Eucalyptus is a tree that, according to different studies, depletes the soil , taking away all its nutrients. This can be understood if we pay attention to its already mentioned growth rate. For this reason, it is not advisable to plant it in small spaces, such as gardens. Furthermore, the intrusion caused by its roots is not ideal for urban areas, where there are pipes and other underground installations that cannot withstand the force with which they advance.
Different species
It should be noted that there are different species of eucalyptus. Red eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus camaldulensis ), for example, is used to obtain firewood and to promote pollination with bees. The blue eucalyptus or white eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus globulus ), meanwhile, has multiple uses.
Your consumption
The essential oil obtained from eucalyptus leaves is a disinfectant and is used to treat respiratory conditions. With this substance, candies , syrups , infusions and ointments are prepared that are also used to relieve joint and muscle pain.
Most people use eucalyptus leaves to prepare balms with expectorant effects, ideal for treating nasal congestion and calming various temporary respiratory problems. For this purpose, you can put a few leaves in a container of boiling water and then inhale the steam for several minutes .
It can also be used to keep skin healthy and clean, thanks to its antiseptic properties and rich aroma . This extends to hair, as eucalyptus can restore shine and eliminate fungus. By drinking it, we not only receive the aforementioned purification benefits, but we also regulate blood sugar levels.
Eucalyptus leaves are ideal for treating respiratory problems
Contraindications
It is important to indicate that the consumption of eucalyptus has contraindications . Among the possible adverse reactions are digestive disorders and respiratory problems. Its essential oil, on the other hand, is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women .
Above we mentioned that eucalyptus serves to reduce blood sugar levels; Although this is positive, an excess of this plant can cause a drop below normal. It is also known to cause drowsiness, so it is not recommended before activities that require energy and attention.