The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Growing => Herbs => Topic started by: katog on June 22, 2012, 08:56:08 pm
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we just cut some big branches off our Eucalyptus - no idea which particular brand - and wondered what to do with all the leaves other than flower arrangements.
How do you use it?
How do you extract the oil?
Is it good against midges (west of scotland devils)?
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yo u could try steeping the leaves in alcohol or other solvent, acetone would be best i should think
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I used to have a lovely Eucalyptus in Birmingham, but I think its a bit harsh here over the winter. I used to use the leaves as they were in linen, under my pillow or bashed up in hot water as a steam inhalation for colds etc - but you can also try making an oil infussion by bashing the leaves up a bit, covering with some bland oil (almond etc) and leaving in the sun for a few weeks. Just found this method but never tried it..http://www.gardenguides.com/86912-make-own-eucalyptus-oil.html (http://www.gardenguides.com/86912-make-own-eucalyptus-oil.html) . Have fun, Fi x
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I am trying to preserve some with glycerine - it seems to be working - all the leaves are changing colour and oozing brown liquid.
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Katog, I can't answer the questions about eucalyptus :-\ but I can tell you that a great deterrent for those West coast midgies is Avons 'Skin So Soft' spray on oil ;) Tested by fishermen :thumbsup: ;D
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I dont know if it would work for eucalyptus , but years ago my ex used to add glycerine to warm water and stand copper beach branch trimmings in it for a couple of weeks to soak it up, then they kept forever as flower arangement stuff , really kept them nice and glossy.