The leaves of the eucalyptus are most commonly used to obtain CO2 extract. In these extracts, cineole is considered the main active ingredient. It should be noted that, depending on the type of raw material, completely different CO2 extracts can be obtained from eucalyptus in terms of functional effect and organoleptic properties. For example, amygdalin is the main active ingredient in phellandrene and citral in eucalyptus leaf extract. In extracts from some other eucalyptus species, menthol or camphor may have an advantage.
As a substance for medicinal purposes, the CO2 extract of eucalyptus leaves with high concentrations of cineole is recommended for antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs. This CO2 extract has an analgesic, antispasmodic and antipyretic effect. It improves peripheral blood circulation, relaxes smooth muscles, accelerates expectoration and relieves cough. Reduces blood sugar, counteracts the development of rheumatism and stimulates the immune system.
It should be noted that CO2 extracts from eucalyptus leaves are not used in traditional cuisine, but it can be assumed that they can be used as biologically active substances in the formulation of functional foods and beverages. It should be noted that eucalyptus extracts have a very high level of activity and caution should be exercised when using them.
CO2 extract from eucalyptus leaves is a yellowish oily liquid with a very strong characteristic aroma and a strong burning taste.
Chart 1. Main components of eucalyptus CO2 extract
| NAME | CONTENT IN% OF THE AMOUNT OF VOLATILE COMPONENTS | EFFECT |
|---|---|---|
| Cineole | 45,0 | expectorant, disinfectant, analgesic, antiseptic. |
| Camphene | 14,0 | Used in the synthesis of camphor. Insecticide. Used to synthesize aromatic substances. |
| Phellandrenes | 6,0 | Antitumor, antimalarial, bactericidal. Raw materials for perfumery. |
| Alpha and beta pinenes | 4,3 | Antiseptic, local irritant, diuretic, expectorant. |
| Cuminaldehyde | 2,1 | It is used in perfumery to shape the aroma of lily of the valley and hyacinth. |
| Globulol | 1,4 | Calming, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect. Diuretic. |
| Vitamin E (tocopherol) | 1,2 | Antioxidant, natural preservative for fats. It has the ability to regulate oxygen uptake by cells in diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and oncological diseases. |
| Oleic acid | 8,0 | Belongs to the group of unsaturated omega-9 fatty acids. Reduces the risk of heart disease. Blocks the absorption of cholesterol. Improves blood vessel walls. Removes inflammation. Promotes the repair and regeneration of nerve cells. |
| Linoleic acid | 0,6 | It belongs to the group of omega-6 fatty acids. Reduces the risk of developing hypertension and also helps fight obesity. |
As a cosmetic ingredient, CO2 extract is recommended to combat herpes. Eucalyptus CO2 extract should most often be used as part of refreshing and firming masks for oily skin with large pores. The extract is very effective in fighting various types of acne on the skin. Using the extract to care for brittle and fungus-prone nails is very effective. CO2 extract can be recommended as the main active ingredient in the care of oily hair, as an ingredient in hair growth stimulating and anti-dandruff products.
The CO2 extract from eucalyptus combats sweaty feet and deodorizes them.
Almost all species of eucalyptus are endemic to Australia and Tasmania, although they are currently cultivated in many countries around the world.