People sometimes have trouble making a distinction between Malagueta and Eucalyptus, but it is not their fault. This confusion actually comes from Puerto Rico where Malagueta is mistaken for Eucalyptus. On the other hand, Eucalyptus can very rarely be seen in these areas. However, learn more about the individual characteristics of these ingredients.
This way you will best see their difference and you will never get into a situation to mix them up. It is certainly not out of place to learn a little more about Malagueta and Eucalyptus to help you recognize them when you see them. If you are interested in this topic, keep reading and find out all the differences between these two ingredients.
Malagueta
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Unlike Eucalyptus, this tree can be seen very often in Puerto Rico. Due to its beautiful appearance, it is mainly used for decorative purposes. However, the leaves of this tree have aromatic properties and they are even better if approached properly. This refers to the distillation of dried leaves or if used with water in the form of perfume. You can find it among cinnamon, citrus and other herbs. There are other situations for which this plant is intended, and that of course refers to making alcohol.
However, the tree is native to the Antilles and dormant until winter and spring. These are the seasons in which this plant wakes up or blooms, and then you have the opportunity to get acquainted with its fantastic leaves. When it comes to fruit, ripening usually occurs during the summer and autumn. We must not forget the speed of tree growth. It is relatively slow growing, but it also has its advantages. During this process, the wood is placed deep in the ground and the plant is able to live for a really long time.
Eucalyptus
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This plant is very popular because you can find it as the main ingredient in many products on the market. The reason for its wide use are the great healing properties, which we will talk more about below. So, it originates from Australia and is found all over the world. It successfully adapts to different parts of the world and manages to form in different climatic conditions if it is not an extreme situation.
However, it is very rare in Puerto Rico. As you know, the tree is also known for being the main food of the adorable animals that we all adore – Koalas. When it comes to the appearance of the tree, we can say that it is very easily recognized as the previous plant or Malagueta. After you take the leaves of this plant in your hands, you will feel a strong and well-known smell. Trees generally grow more than 120 feet.
Characteristics of the Malagueta tree
This tree grows a few tens of feet, usually less than 50. Its tree has a very smooth appearance and resembles the Guava Tree. Like Eucalyptus, it is recognizable by its characteristic scent that will immediately remind you of the well-known alcohol. The more you grind it in your hand, the stronger the smell will be. When it comes to the appearance of the leaves, it is dark green, with lighter tones.
The trunk is 1 foot thick, and can be more. The leaves are a little less than 5 cm long, and the fruit of this tree is almost 1 centimeter long. The flowering period is winter and spring, and ripening occurs during summer and autumn.
Characteristics of eucalyptus trees
We must say that there are even several variations of this type of tree. That is why we can find it as a short bush or tall evergreen trees. Its bark is an undefined color that contains a combination of gray and blue tones. Beneath the trunk that can be peeled off like bark, there are yellow spots. Young leaves are rounded and mostly without stems while adults are long and looped.
There is one interesting thing about this tree. It is mentioned in some mythological beliefs. Thus, it was used as a plant for the purpose of spiritual cleansing. However, today it is no less known for its healing properties, which means that they have been used for a long time.
What can Malagueta be used for?
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When we mention the use of these herbs, we must list a few popular ways in which Malagueta is used. Apart from being the main composition of alcohol, it is used for many similar purposes. It goes well with various traditional mixtures with other plants such as menthol and eucalyptus. Its application is really wide, and it has proven to be a very successful ingredient when it comes to temperature, headaches and pain in various parts of the body. It is also used as a remedy for the symptoms of insect bites, but also for many other things.
Like eucalyptus, some people believe that it is equally good for spiritual protection. You can find it in the form of an essential oil that you can use for a long time, but it also exists as a soap, perfume or shaving agent. If you want to see the types of soaps made from this plant, you can do so at www.caribbeansoaps.com
We must not forget to consume it as a beverage, and women often use it as a means of relieving pain as a consequence of menstruation. However, it has an equally successful effect when it comes to diarrhea and other digestive disorders. It is also used for hair loss and repairing various problems with the scalp, such as dandruff, irritation, etc. In addition to skin ailments on the head, it is also effective for fungal diseases of the feet and similar conditions.
What are the benefits of using Eucalyptus?
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Its scent is so aromatic that many would immediately eat its leaves, but it is better to make tea instead. Of course, do not add essential oil to the tea, but only the leaves. However, these leaves are an excellent choice of antioxidants that help our body get rid of oxidative stress on a daily basis. The rich properties of eucalyptus act as a prevention of various diseases such as cancer, heart disease and dementia. It is great for people who suffer from asthma symptoms, and users can inhale the oil through the nose and thus fix colds.
It can also be used as a treatment for dry skin and other skin disorders. This applies to psoriasis, dermatitis, etc. This is a great way for your skin to retain the water it needs and thus protect the skin barrier. We must not forget the effect of eucalyptus on pain thanks to anti-inflammatory compounds.
Conclusion:
No matter how fantastic Malagueta and Eucalyptus are in their appearance, good action and aromatic smell, they are different. We hope we’ve helped you spot these differences better.
