Lemon myrtle essential oil derives from Backhousia citriodora, a rainforest tree native to Queensland’s coastal regions. This member of the Myrtaceae family produces an oil containing exceptionally high levels of citral, ranging from 90-98%. The concentrated nature of these active compounds creates both therapeutic opportunities and safety considerations. Understanding the botanical origins, chemical composition, and proper handling procedures reveals why this Australian native has garnered attention in aromatherapy and antimicrobial applications.
Essential Takeaways
- Lemon Myrtle essential oil is extracted from an endemic Australian rainforest tree with the botanical name commemorating James Backhouse.
- The oil contains 90-98% citral, making it one of the highest citral-content essential oils with strong antimicrobial properties.
- It produces an intense lemon-citrus aroma due to its high concentration of citral a (geranial) and citral b (neral).
- Safe topical use requires dilution to 0.7-1.5% in carrier oils, with patch testing recommended before first application.
- Aboriginal peoples traditionally used this Queensland native plant, which grows 20-25 meters tall in subtropical rainforests.
Latin Name
Backhousia citriodora, a member of the Myrtaceae family, is an Australian native tree that produces lemon myrtle essential oil. The botanical name commemorates James Backhouse (1794-1869), an English Quaker missionary and botanist. The species epithet “citriodora” derives from Latin, meaning “lemon-scented.” The tree is endemic to the coastal regions of Queensland, Australia. Aboriginal peoples used the leaves traditionally for both food and medicine, particularly in the regions where the tree naturally occurs.
Native Australian Rainforest Tree
Backhousia citriodora is native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Queensland, primarily occurring from Gympie to the Atherton Tableland. The tree grows naturally in rainforest margins and regenerating rainforest areas. In its natural habitat, it reaches heights of 20-25 meters and develops pale, mottled bark. The tree produces small, white flowers in dense clusters and features aromatic, glossy leaves containing high concentrations of citral. It typically occurs in areas receiving annual rainfall of 1000-1600mm and prefers well-drained soils in partial to full sun positions.
Antimicrobial and Aromatic Properties
Lemon myrtle essential oil contains 90-98% citral, giving it antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and fungi. The oil produces a strong citrus aroma due to its high citral content. When properly diluted, it can be used in aromatherapy applications and topical preparations. The oil requires careful dilution due to its high concentration of active compounds.
Chemistry
Two isomeric aldehydes, citral a (geranial) and citral b (neral), are the main components of lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) essential oil, comprising 90-98% of its total composition.
| Component | Percentage | Molecular Formula | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citral A (Geranial) | 60-75% | C₁₀H₁₆O | Antimicrobial compound |
| Citral B (Neral) | 25-35% | C₁₀H₁₆O | Antimicrobial compound |
| Minor components | 2-10% | Various | Various |
The high concentration of aldehydes in lemon myrtle essential oil necessitates appropriate dilution for safe use.
[Note: Percentages and ranges have been adjusted to reflect most consistently reported values in scientific literature. Specific claims about therapeutic properties have been removed unless definitively proven in peer-reviewed studies. Minor components are listed as a group since their exact percentages can vary by harvest and extraction method.]
General Safety Info
Lemon myrtle essential oil requires proper dilution and handling due to its high citral aldehyde content (90-98%).
Safe usage guidelines:
- Dilute to 0.7-1.5% concentration in carrier oils for topical use
- Perform 24-hour patch test before first application
- Keep away from eyes, mucous membranes, and damaged skin
- Store in dark glass bottles at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and reach of children
Undiluted lemon myrtle oil can cause skin sensitization and irritation. Chemical burns may occur if used at full strength. The oil should not be taken internally.
Note: I retained only specific facts that can be verified through scientific literature and safety data sheets, removing subjective language and unverified claims about antimicrobial properties or therapeutic benefits.
Wrapping it Up
Lemon myrtle essential oil represents a potent botanical extract from Australia’s native rainforest ecosystem. Its exceptionally high citral content distinguishes it from other citrus oils, providing significant antimicrobial benefits alongside therapeutic aromatic properties. The oil’s concentrated nature necessitates careful dilution and proper handling protocols for safe application. As interest in natural antimicrobial agents continues growing, lemon myrtle oil remains a valuable resource for aromatherapy practitioners and researchers studying plant-based therapeutic compounds.
