Eucalyptus Radiata from New South Wales: What Makes It Different
Eucalyptus radiata from the Victorian Highlands has a specific compound profile that distinguishes it from other eucalyptus species and growing regions.
Eucalyptus radiata (narrow-leaved peppermint) is one of approximately 700 eucalyptus species and one of three that are commonly used in essential oil production. It grows naturally across southeastern Australia, from the tablelands of New South Wales to the ranges of Victoria and South Australia.
What makes radiata distinctive
Eucalyptus radiata has a softer, more rounded scent than Eucalyptus globulus, which is the species most people associate with eucalyptus. The difference is in the compound profile. Radiata typically shows 1,8-cineole at 60-75%, with significant alpha-terpineol (5-10%) and limonene (3-6%). Globulus shows 1,8-cineole at 80-90% with a sharper, more medicinal character.
The growing region
The Victorian Highlands, at altitudes of 600-1,200 metres, produce eucalyptus with a consistent compound profile. The cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to coastal regions result in a slower-growing plant with a higher concentration of aromatic compounds in the leaves. Distilleries in this region typically harvest in late summer when the leaf oil content is at its peak.
Our current batch
Our Eucalyptus Radiata is sourced from a distillery in the Victorian Highlands. The current batch shows 1,8-cineole at 68.4%, alpha-terpineol at 9.2%, and limonene at 4.8%. The full GC/MS report is available on the product page. We specify the species on every label because the distinction between radiata and globulus is meaningful for anyone using the oil in a formulation.