Eucalyptus Oil and Cineole: An Overview of the Industry

1. Introduction

Eucalyptus oil, also known as blue gum oil, is a volatile essential oil derived from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. Cineole (1,8 - cineole), also called eucalyptol, is its primary and most important component, usually accounting for 70% - 85% in commercial eucalyptus oil.

2. Production and Global Output

- Production Process: Eucalyptus oil is typically obtained through steam distillation of fresh eucalyptus leaves. After distillation, further purification processes may be carried out to increase the cineole content. For example, treating eucalyptus oil with phenol followed by reduced - pressure rectification and then normal - pressure rectification to obtain an azeotrope of 1,8 - eucalyptol and water, and finally removing water and drying to form the final cineole product.

- Global Output: In 2024, the global production of eucalyptus globulus oil exceeded 7,500 metric tons. China is the leading producer, with an annual output of over 3,200 metric tons. Other major producers include Portugal, India, and South Africa.

3. Applications

- Pharmaceutical Field: Eucalyptus oil and cineole are widely used in pharmaceuticals. Due to their antibacterial, anti - inflammatory, and decongestant properties, they are used in cough syrups, lozenges, topical ointments, and decongestant products. Clinical trials have shown that 1,8 - cineole, the main active compound in eucalyptus oil, can reduce bronchial inflammation by up to 22% after 7 days of continuous use. In 2023, over 850 million units of eucalyptus - based decongestant products were sold globally, especially in Asia and Europe.

- Personal Care and Cosmetics: They are used in various personal care products such as soaps, shampoos, body lotions, and essential oil diffusers, mainly for their pleasant aroma and potential therapeutic effects like relieving muscle tension. In 2024, there were over 1,200 skin care and personal hygiene products in North America and Europe that included eucalyptus