Lemon Myrtle: Australia's Citrus Powerhouse
Understanding Lemon Myrtle and Its Unique Properties
Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) stands out as one of Australia's most aromatic native plants, originating from the subtropical rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales. This evergreen tree can reach heights of 20 meters in its natural habitat, though cultivated specimens typically grow between 5 to 8 meters. The leaves contain citral concentrations ranging from 90% to 98%, making them significantly more potent than lemongrass (75-85% citral) and dramatically more intense than actual lemon peel, which contains only 2-3% citral.
The Aboriginal people have utilized lemon myrtle for thousands of years, both as a medicinal plant and food flavoring. European settlers didn't document the plant until 1853, when botanist Ferdinand von Mueller first recorded it during his explorations of Queensland's coastal regions. Commercial cultivation didn't begin until the 1990s, when Australian farmers recognized its potential as a native food crop and natural flavoring agent.
Today, lemon myrtle has gained recognition in international culinary circles and the essential oil industry. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in southern California, Florida, and parts of Texas. For those in cooler climates, container growing allows enthusiasts to bring plants indoors during winter months. The leaves retain their aromatic properties for up to two years when properly dried and stored in airtight containers away from direct sunlight.
Research conducted by Southern Cross University in 2003 demonstrated that lemon myrtle essential oil exhibits antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and fungi, including Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. The high citral content acts as the primary antimicrobial agent, though the leaves also contain smaller amounts of citronellal, linalool, and other beneficial compounds. You can explore more about lemon myrtle tea and its preparation methods on our FAQ page, where we detail brewing techniques and flavor profiles.
| Plant Species | Citral Content (%) | Primary Use | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) | 90-98% | Culinary herb, essential oil | Australia |
| Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) | 75-85% | Culinary herb, tea | Southeast Asia |
| Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora) | 30-35% | Tea, flavoring | South America |
| Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) | 10-20% | Tea, medicinal | Mediterranean |
| Lemon Peel (Citrus limon) | 2-3% | Culinary flavoring | Asia |
Culinary Applications and Flavor Profile
Lemon myrtle has transformed modern Australian cuisine since the 1990s, when chefs began incorporating native ingredients into contemporary dishes. The leaves deliver an intense, clean lemon flavor without the acidity found in citrus fruits, making them ideal for both sweet and savory applications. Professional chefs typically use 1/3 to 1/2 the amount of lemon myrtle compared to lemon zest due to its concentrated flavor profile.
In baking, ground lemon myrtle leaves work exceptionally well in shortbread, pound cakes, and custards. A standard ratio is 1-2 teaspoons of dried, ground lemon myrtle per cup of flour. The leaves maintain their flavor when heated, unlike fresh lemon zest which can become bitter at high temperatures. Australian bakeries have popularized lemon myrtle cream, a variation of traditional lemon curd that uses the native herb instead of lemon juice and zest.
Savory dishes benefit equally from lemon myrtle's aromatic qualities. The leaves complement fish, chicken, and pork particularly well. When creating marinades, combine crushed lemon myrtle leaves with olive oil, garlic, and native Australian pepper for a distinctly regional flavor profile. Lemon myrtle olive oil, created by infusing high-quality extra virgin olive oil with dried leaves for 2-3 weeks, has become a specialty product in gourmet markets. This infused oil works beautifully in salad dressings and as a finishing oil for grilled vegetables.
The tea market represents one of lemon myrtle's fastest-growing applications. Unlike traditional black or green tea, lemon myrtle tea contains zero caffeine while delivering a refreshing citrus taste. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves in 8 ounces of water heated to 200-205°F for 5-7 minutes. The resulting brew contains antioxidants and can be enjoyed hot or iced. Many Australian tea companies now blend lemon myrtle with other native ingredients like anise myrtle and strawberry gum to create unique flavor combinations. Our about page provides additional context about the plant's cultural significance and commercial development in Australia.
| Application | Form | Amount per Serving | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tea (hot) | Dried leaves | 1-2 tsp per 8 oz | Steep 5-7 minutes at 200-205°F |
| Baking | Ground powder | 1-2 tsp per cup flour | Mix with dry ingredients |
| Marinades | Crushed leaves | 1 tbsp per pound protein | Combine with oil, marinate 2-4 hours |
| Infused oil | Whole dried leaves | 2-3 tbsp per cup oil | Infuse 2-3 weeks, strain |
| Dessert sauces | Ground powder | 1/2-1 tsp per cup liquid | Add during cooking, simmer gently |
Essential Oil Properties and Therapeutic Uses
Lemon myrtle essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of fresh leaves, with approximately 50 kilograms of plant material yielding 250-300 milliliters of pure oil. The oil appears pale yellow to clear and possesses an intensely fresh, lemony aroma that's more complex than simple citrus notes. Quality essential oil should contain at least 90% citral, with premium grades reaching 95-98% concentration.
The essential oil market has grown substantially since 2010, with Australian production increasing from approximately 2 tons annually to over 8 tons by 2020. Young Living, doTERRA, and several Australian boutique producers now offer lemon myrtle essential oil, though availability varies by region. Prices typically range from $15 to $35 per 15-milliliter bottle, depending on organic certification and production methods.
Aromatherapy applications include diffusing 3-5 drops in a standard diffuser to create an uplifting, clean atmosphere. The oil blends well with eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, and other citrus oils. Some practitioners use diluted lemon myrtle oil (2-3% concentration in a carrier oil) for topical application, though skin sensitivity testing is essential due to the high citral content. The compound can cause irritation in concentrations above 5% for individuals with sensitive skin.
Research published in the International Journal of Aromatherapy in 2008 examined lemon myrtle oil's effects on mood and cognitive performance. Study participants exposed to the aroma showed improved alertness and reduced stress markers compared to control groups. A separate study from 2015 at the University of Queensland demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against common household bacteria, suggesting potential applications in natural cleaning products. The Australian Tea Tree Industry Association has documented that lemon myrtle oil shows comparable or superior antimicrobial properties to tea tree oil against certain bacterial strains.
| Property | Standard Range | Premium Grade | Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citral content | 85-92% | 95-98% | Higher citral = stronger potency |
| Dilution for topical use | 2-3% | 1-2% | Always use carrier oil |
| Diffuser drops | 3-5 drops | 2-3 drops | Per 100ml water capacity |
| Shelf life (sealed) | 2-3 years | 3-4 years | Store in dark, cool place |
| Max dermal concentration | 5% | 3% | Skin sensitivity varies |
Health Benefits and Scientific Research
The health benefits of lemon myrtle extend beyond its pleasant aroma and flavor. Studies conducted between 2005 and 2020 have identified several bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties. The high citral content provides the primary antimicrobial effects, while smaller concentrations of flavonoids and phenolic compounds offer antioxidant benefits. A 2012 study published in Food Chemistry measured the total phenolic content at 47.3 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram of dried leaves.
Digestive health represents one traditional use that modern research has begun to validate. Aboriginal Australians traditionally used lemon myrtle leaves to treat stomach ailments and intestinal discomfort. Contemporary herbalists recommend lemon myrtle tea for its gentle digestive support, particularly after heavy meals. The antimicrobial properties may help maintain healthy gut flora balance, though clinical trials specifically examining this application remain limited.
Some supplement manufacturers have explored lemon myrtle extract as an ingredient in various formulations, including what some marketers term as anabolic supplements. However, scientific evidence supporting lemon myrtle's role in muscle building or testosterone enhancement is currently lacking. The plant's primary documented benefits relate to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and aromatic properties rather than hormonal effects. Consumers should approach such claims with skepticism and consult healthcare providers before using any supplement for performance enhancement.
The antioxidant capacity of lemon myrtle has garnered attention from skincare companies. Several Australian brands now incorporate lemon myrtle extract into creams, lotions, and serums, marketing them for their protective and refreshing properties. A 2017 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science evaluated lemon myrtle extract's stability in cream formulations, finding that it remained active for up to 18 months when properly preserved. The extract's antimicrobial properties may also benefit acne-prone skin, though individual results vary considerably. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, consumers should research botanical ingredients thoroughly and patch-test new products before full application.
| Benefit Category | Active Compounds | Research Year | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antimicrobial activity | Citral (90-98%) | 2003, 2015 | Essential oil, extract |
| Antioxidant properties | Phenolic compounds | 2012 | Tea, dietary use |
| Digestive support | Citral, flavonoids | Traditional use | Tea infusion |
| Aromatherapy effects | Volatile compounds | 2008 | Essential oil diffusion |
| Skin health | Citral, antioxidants | 2017 | Topical cream/extract |