Assessment of the usage in folk medicine and morphological characteristics of Eucalyptus gomphocephala and Eucalyptus camaldulensis in Northern Cyprus

Year 2024, Volume: 7 Issue: 3, 98 - 105, 30.12.2024

Gizem Kinel , Tugba Ercetin

https://doi.org/10.54994/emujpharmsci.1597475

Abstract

One of the most significant and extensively planted genera in the world is Eucalyptus, which consists of tall, evergreen trees with leathery leaves. They are indigenous to Australia and comprise more than 900 species and subspecies. About 62 species of Eucalyptus may be found in Cyprus; 47 of these are named, while the remaining 15 are hybrid or unclassified. Traditional medicine uses a variety of Eucalyptus species as an antiseptic and to treat upper respiratory tract illnesses. By inhaling the essential oil extracted from these plants, pulmonary infections can be treated therapeutically. The purpose of this study was to provide information on the physical characteristics of Eucalyptus gomphocephala DC. and Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh., as well as to investigate the traditional usage of Eucalyptus trees in North Cyprus.
It has been noted that there are numerous differences between the two species' flower buds, flowers, fruits, and barks. This study, conducted in Northern Cyprus, is to record and inform Eastern Mediterranean University Faculty of Pharmacy students and staff on the traditional uses of Eucalyptus species by various nations (Turkiye, Cyprus, Iran, Nigeria, Uganda).
One hundred informants whose ages ranging from 20 to 60 were interviewed in person for the study. Questions concerning the use of Eucalyptus plants, where they come from, which parts of the plant are used, and how they are used were asked to interviewees, who ranged in age from 20 to 60.
Observations have led to the widespread use of Eucalyptus by Iranian and Turkish Cypriots, Boiling the leaves and using the steam to enhance respiratory health was the most frequently used method in the local application of the plant in the treatment.

Keywords

Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Eucalyptus gomphocephala, folk medicine, North Cyprus

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