What are the uses of eucalyptus? The latest analysis is here
Eucalyptus is also known as white diesel tree, mang tree, youjiali, large-leaf eucalyptus, etc. It is the collective name for plants in the genus Eucalyptus of the family Myrtaceae. Its place of origin is mainly the Australian continent. It was introduced to various parts of the world in the 19th century. By 2012, 96 countries or regions had cultivated it. It has many values, including medicinal and economic value. Now let us take a look at what uses eucalyptus has!
The edible value of eucalyptus
The roots of eucalyptus can be eaten and can also be used to obtain water. In some places, eucalyptus is also used as fuel, and the leaves of many eucalyptus trees can be used as feed.
The medical value of eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is slightly pungent, slightly bitter, and neutral. It has the functions of dispelling wind and relieving heat, inhibiting bacteria and reducing inflammation, and preserving and relieving itching. It is mainly used to prevent and treat influenza, epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis, upper respiratory tract infections, pharyngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, acute and chronic pyelonephritis, nephritis, dysentery, and filariasis. For external use, it treats burns and scalds, cellulitis, mastitis, boils, erysipelas, paddy field dermatitis, skin dampness and itching, athlete's foot, etc.
The economic value of eucalyptus
1. Wood processing: China has successfully developed manufacturing technologies for high-performance eucalyptus reconstituted wood, eucalyptus veneer laminated lumber, bamboo-eucalyptus composite materials, thick-core eucalyptus solid wood composite panels, and formaldehyde-free eucalyptus plywood. The comprehensive utilization rate of eucalyptus can be increased to more than 90%. Eucalyptus not only brings value to industry, but also brings economic benefits to other industries.
2. Papermaking raw material: Eucalyptus papermaking began as early as the early 20th century. Its fibers have an average length of 0.75-1.30 mm, and its color, density, and extract ratio are all suitable for pulping. Many large paper mills also use eucalyptus to produce kraft paper and printing paper. The cellulose in eucalyptus wood can first be made into dissolving wood pulp and then processed into rayon, which has already achieved considerable success.
3. Essential oil extraction: Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus maidenii in the eucalyptus genus are the main varieties used to extract eucalyptus oil. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol and is a colorless or light yellow liquid with a stimulating, cooling fragrance. It is mainly used in toothpaste, mouthwash, food, medicine, and other aspects.
4. Gold exploration: Australian scientists used X-rays to discover trace amounts of gold in eucalyptus leaves. It is believed that this is the first time naturally occurring gold has been found in a living organism. However, researchers said that the amount of gold contained in the leaves is very small. The gold content in the leaves of 500 eucalyptus trees growing in a gold mining area might only be enough to make a wedding ring, so this discovery will not bring wealth to gold prospectors. However, scientists pointed out that this discovery can help people explore for gold in a more environmentally friendly and cheaper way.