The Eucalyptus tree is another unique native of Australia like the kangaroo, koala bear, platypus, and wombat. The Eucalyptus can vary in size from a shrub to a towering tall tree. Every part of the tree is useful to Australian life. The short uniform fibers and low coarseness of the wood make especially fine paper. The tree trunks, hollowed out by termites, are carefully selected for their sound to make the Australian Aboriginal musical instrument, the didgeridoo.

However, it’s the Eucalyptus leaves, covered with oil glands, that produce the widest assortment of products. Eucalyptus oil contains compounds that are a powerful natural disinfectant and can be toxic in large quantities; yet some animals, like the koala and possum, are tolerant of this toxin and dine on Eucalyptus leaves like a tasty salad. Humans convert this oil into industrial cleaners and antiseptics, or, in very small quantities, into cough drops, toothpaste, decongestants, or insect repellent. Eucalyptus oil is highly flammable, and trees ignited by wildfires have been known to explode, but this resilient tree has adapted to forest fires and its seeds immediately resprout.

Our beautiful OHM Rainbow Eucalyptus glass bead is a dazzling mix of colors and influences too. You can see the creamy oils swirling through the fragrant leaves and rich, fine wood. And like the amazing tree itself, our Eucalyptus bead can provide so many options for enhancing and flavoring your bracelet. It’s also symbolic of your own resilience to life’s wildfires. You are very special to all those who depend upon your varied talents. Your heart sings its own unique musical score deep within.

Yes, you’re pretty amazing too.