Which Eucalyptus Is Good for Tea?: A Guide to Safe Varieties, Benefits, and Preparation

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

Aboriginal Australians have used eucalyptus leaves for their medicinal properties for centuries. Before you brew, knowing which eucalyptus is good for tea? is critical, as not all species are safe for consumption and can pose health risks if prepared incorrectly. This guide will help you navigate the safe and beneficial options for your next herbal brew.

Quick Summary

Specific types of eucalyptus leaves, such as Eucalyptus globulus and radiata, are safe and beneficial for tea, but it is vital to distinguish them from other species and never consume the highly toxic essential oil. The dried leaves contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that offer respiratory relief, among other health benefits, when prepared correctly.

Key Points

Safe Species Are Crucial: Stick to known safe species for tea like Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus radiata to avoid consuming toxic varieties.
Never Ingest Essential Oil: Eucalyptus essential oil is toxic and potentially fatal if ingested; always use only properly dried leaves for tea.
Respiratory Health Booster: The eucalyptol in eucalyptus tea acts as a natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory, helping to relieve cold and flu symptoms.
High in Antioxidants: Eucalyptus leaves are a great source of flavonoids, which protect the body from oxidative stress and may lower disease risk.
Practice Caution: Avoid eucalyptus tea if pregnant, breastfeeding, or giving it to children. Always monitor for potential side effects and drug interactions.
Mindful Preparation: Steep dried leaves in hot (not boiling) water for 5-10 minutes and strain before drinking to ensure safety and proper extraction.
Globulus vs. Radiata: Choose E. globulus for a stronger, more medicinal flavor, or E. radiata for a milder, sweeter, and gentler experience.

Identifying Safe Eucalyptus Species for Your Tea

With over 700 species of eucalyptus worldwide, it is crucial to know which ones are safe for making tea and which are not. The vast majority of eucalyptus varieties are not suitable for internal consumption. The focus for herbal tea should be on two specific types widely recognized for their traditional and documented use: Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus radiata. Both species are known for their high eucalyptol content, the compound responsible for their signature aroma and therapeutic properties. It is also vital to distinguish between using the dried leaves for tea and the essential oil; the latter is highly toxic if ingested and must be avoided.

Eucalyptus globulus: The Blue Gum Tree

This species, also known as the Blue Gum tree or Australian fever tree, is perhaps the most famous and widely cultivated eucalyptus. It is a fast-growing tree with long, grey-greenish leaves.

E. globulus is known for its strong, bold, and invigorating aroma due to a higher concentration of the active compound 1,8-cineole.
Traditionally used for respiratory tract infections and clearing phlegm from the chest.

Eucalyptus radiata: The Narrow-Leaved Peppermint

Often called Narrow-Leaved Peppermint, E. radiata is a gentler alternative to E. globulus. Its essential oil has a softer, sweeter, and more pleasant aroma, making it a favorite for those sensitive to stronger scents.

It is considered a good choice for use around children (with caution) or for daily aromatherapy sessions.
Like globulus, it is effective for respiratory issues and provides immune support.

Health Benefits of Drinking Eucalyptus Tea

When prepared and consumed correctly, eucalyptus leaf tea offers several health benefits attributed to its high antioxidant content and the presence of eucalyptol.

Relieves Cold and Flu Symptoms: Eucalyptus is a natural decongestant and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat, clear nasal congestion, and break down mucus. Inhaling the steam from the tea as it steeps provides a dual benefit, opening up airways.
Boosts Antioxidant Intake: Eucalyptus leaves are rich in flavonoids like catechins, quercetin, and luteolin. These powerful antioxidants protect the body from oxidative stress and may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Promotes Oral Health: Eucalyptus contains compounds with antibacterial properties that can help fight bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gum disease. It is often an ingredient in mouthwashes and toothpastes.
Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation: The aroma of eucalyptus is known for its calming and stress-relieving effects. Inhaling the vapor from a warm cup of tea can help promote a sense of relaxation.

Eucalyptus Tea: Preparation and Safety Precautions

Proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable eucalyptus tea experience. The most important rule is to use only dried leaves, not the essential oil, for consumption.

How to Prepare Eucalyptus Tea Safely

Use Dried Leaves: Start with 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried, crushed eucalyptus leaves. These are available commercially and are a safer option than wild harvesting unless you are an expert botanist.
Boil Water and Cool: Heat water until it reaches just below boiling, around 200°F (95°C). Allowing the water to cool slightly prevents scalding the delicate leaves, which can affect the flavor.
Steep: Pour about 6-8 ounces of the hot water over the leaves. Cover the cup and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor will be.
Strain and Drink: Strain the leaves thoroughly before drinking. Add honey or lemon to taste, which can also provide additional soothing benefits, especially for sore throats.
Enjoy in Moderation: Limit consumption to 2–3 cups per day. Excessive intake can increase the risk of side effects.

Risks and Precautions

While eucalyptus tea from dried leaves is generally safe for most adults in moderation, it is not without potential risks. Some groups should be particularly cautious or avoid it altogether.

Avoid Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Never ingest eucalyptus essential oil. It is highly concentrated and toxic, with fatal doses reported from as little as 3.5 mL in adults.
Be Cautious with Children: Children, especially infants, are more vulnerable to eucalyptus toxicity. Do not give eucalyptus oil or tea to children without medical supervision.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid eucalyptus tea, as not enough is known about its safety during these periods.
Potential Drug Interactions: Eucalyptus may interact with certain medications, including those processed by the liver and diabetes medications, as it can affect blood sugar levels. Always consult a healthcare provider if you are taking any medications.

Eucalyptus Tea Comparison: Globulus vs. Radiata


Feature	Eucalyptus globulus	Eucalyptus radiata
Botanical Name	Eucalyptus globulus	Eucalyptus radiata
Common Name	Blue Gum	Narrow-Leaved Peppermint
Aroma	Strong, bold, medicinal, camphoraceous	Fresh, slightly sweet, mild, gentle
1,8-Cineole Content	Higher (up to 85%)	Moderate (60-70%)
Ideal Use	Potent respiratory relief, stronger flavor	Milder flavor, gentle for sensitive individuals
Best For	Lower respiratory infections, clearing chest congestion	Upper respiratory issues, gentler immune support

Conclusion

Choosing which eucalyptus is good for tea? comes down to selecting a specific, safe species like Eucalyptus globulus or Eucalyptus radiata and always using properly dried leaves, never the essential oil. When prepared with care, these herbal infusions can provide significant health benefits, particularly for respiratory health and antioxidant intake. Always adhere to safe consumption practices, exercise moderation, and consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are in a vulnerable group or have underlying health conditions. The natural power of eucalyptus can be a soothing and therapeutic addition to your wellness routine, but knowledge is paramount to ensuring your safety. For more information on identifying plants, you can visit the Woodland Trust website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all eucalyptus is safe for tea. It is crucial to use only specific varieties like Eucalyptus globulus or Eucalyptus radiata and to use only dried leaves, as other species can be toxic.

It is generally safer to use properly dried eucalyptus leaves for tea. Fresh leaves contain a higher concentration of active compounds, which can be too potent and potentially unsafe.

The main benefits include relieving cold and respiratory symptoms, providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and promoting oral hygiene.

Ingesting eucalyptus essential oil is highly toxic and can be fatal, even in small amounts. You should only use dried eucalyptus leaves for tea and never add essential oil to your drink.

To prepare safely, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried, crushed leaves in hot (not boiling) water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the leaves thoroughly before drinking and add honey or lemon if desired.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and individuals taking certain medications, particularly for diabetes, should consult a healthcare provider before consuming eucalyptus tea.

Eucalyptus globulus offers a stronger, more medicinal flavor and is ideal for potent respiratory relief. Eucalyptus radiata has a milder, sweeter flavor and is often preferred for a gentler, everyday tea.

It is recommended to drink eucalyptus tea in moderation, typically limiting consumption to 2 to 3 cups per day, to avoid potential side effects from excessive intake.