Plant MedicineLemon myrtle

Lemon myrtle

Backhousia citriodora

Family: Myrtaceae

Also known as: Sweet verbena tree, Lemon ironwood, Lemon scented myrtle

At a glance

Best for: Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Antioxidant, Flavouring, Mood support
Parts used: Leaves, Essential oil
Common forms: Culinary, Tea, Essential oil, Topical
Evidence level: Promising
Cautions: Do not ingest undiluted essential oil; High citral content may cause skin sensitisation
Immune
Nervous
Culinary
Tea
Essential oil
Topical
Queensland (Australia)
New South Wales (Australia)

What it is

Lemon myrtle is a subtropical rainforest tree native to Queensland. Its leaves contain an extraordinary concentration of citral giving an intensely clean lemon fragrance far stronger than lemon itself. Citral has proven antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Traditional use

Used by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years as food flavouring and for skin conditions. In the 20th century, cultivation expanded for both culinary and essential oil production.

What modern research suggests (Promising)

RCT showed lemon myrtle essential oil gel (10%) effective for Molluscum contagiosum viral skin lesions with 90% reduction vs 16% in placebo. Strong antimicrobial activity against MRSA, E. coli, and Candida documented in laboratory studies. Antioxidant activity confirmed.

How people use it

Culinary: use dried lemon myrtle leaves as flavouring for fish, chicken, pasta, desserts, and beverages. Tea: steep 1 teaspoon dried leaves in hot water 5 minutes. Essential oil: dilute 1-2% in carrier oil for topical antimicrobial use.

Safety + interactions

Dried culinary leaf is very safe. Essential oil must be diluted - concentrated citral can cause skin sensitisation. Do not ingest undiluted essential oil. Safe at normal food consumption levels.

Name clarity note

Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is unrelated. Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is distinct from lemon verbena, lemon balm, and lemon grass, though all share lemony aroma compounds.

Quality notes

Australian-grown lemon myrtle has the highest commercial citral content of any plant (90-98% in essential oil). For culinary use, dried leaf powder is safe. Essential oil must be diluted before topical use.

Community Insights

Premium members share their experiences and knowledge about this plant.

Disclaimer: This content is educational and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

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