Eucalyptus tereticornis Smith

യൂക്കാലി

Family : MYRTACEAE

Synonym : Eucalyptus insignis Naudin

Common Names : Yukali, Forest red gum

Flowering Period : March-September

Distribution : Native of Australia

Habitat : Raised in plantations, also planted as avenue tree

Uses : The tree is said to produce a nutritious, sweet substance that falls from the leaves like manna. The roots can be used by travelers in the desert to provide good drinking water. Resin is taken internally as an effective treatment for dysentery. A decoction of the leaf serves to reduce fever and alleviates pulmonary problems. The essential oil (from the leaves) has shown antibacterial and antifungal activities, and in-vivo analgesic, muscle-relaxant and anti inflammatory effects. The trees are also used in the restoration and immobilization of dunes, to control erosion by wind, and as hedges. The leaves are one of the sources of the essential oil ‘eucalypt oil’. Kino (a red substance resembling resin) is obtained from the tree. Plant is timber yielding and is also used as a source of firewood.

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