Eucalyptus Oil Distillation Brings Plant Communication to Life.
Essential oil distillation is a powerful & engaging l tool for explaining how plants use aroma chemicals to communicate & remain healthy
Community Participation - LEP23-035_MLLG-03
The issue
Our challenge was to hold an indoor workshop in a way that engaged the public with their local Eucalyptus species somatically (through our bodies via the senses) rather than just intellectually (delivering facts & information only). The workshop was designed to strengthen participants emotional connection to the subject - Eucalyptus Trees/ Box Gum Grassy Woodland Communities & provide an experience that was portable in its delivery & therefore accessible for a broad & diverse audience.
Our sense of smell is powerfully emotive and learning via this sensory pathway has been found to enhance learning outcomes and our sense of connection to the natural world.
The solution
The workshop focused around the distilling of Eucalyptus leaves using a 5 litre air still. The 5 litre still can be purchased without a permit & transported freely. It requires power but not circulating water during use. Essential oil and hydrosol are produced after 1 hour and continue to flow for approx. 2 further hours. Leaves could be collected on the day as part of an extended workshop (Eucalyptus walk) or gathered earlier. Bottles of a variety of essential oils were provided for comparison and books & other reading material finished the display.
The impact
Oil distilling created an immersive learning environment allowing for creative & engaging dialogue and learning. Scent travelling through the air created a tangible example of how plants use aroma chemicals to communicate risks, defend themselves from attack and attract pollinators. Scientific literature was provided to participants afterwards to strengthen their understanding of the concepts discussed. The workshop was enthusiastically received with participants talking about it during the following weeks. This fun and informal workshop proved suitable for all-ages and interest levels. It stimulated an interesting Q&A with many participants expressing an interest in furthering their knowledge of plant aromachemistry.
Working Together
This workshop was created for a National Eucalyptus Day celebration hosted by Weddin Community Nursery at Grenfell at the invite of Weddin Landcare Incorporated.
Key facts
- Plants use aroma chemicals to communicate, Our sense of smell can be used to boost learning & attention.