Lemon Myrtle: Health Benefits, Uses, and Medicinal Value

Harness citral’s power to protect cells, calm inflammation, and boost skin vitality.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 18, 2025

Harness citral’s power to protect cells, calm inflammation, and boost skin vitality.

What Is Lemon Myrtle?

Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is an evergreen shrub native to Australia, treasured for its powerful lemon scent, distinctive flavor, and centuries-long history of culinary and medicinal use. Its glossy, aromatic leaves are rich in citral, a compound responsible for its intense citrus notes. Traditionally, Aboriginal Australians have utilized lemon myrtle for its refreshing flavor, as well as its therapeutic and preservative qualities. Today, the plant has gained global popularity in natural health, skincare, culinary, and aromatic products.

Nutrition Profile Of Lemon Myrtle

Lemon myrtle is not generally consumed in large quantities, but its leaves and essential oil boast several notable compounds with documented bioactive effects:

Citral (70–98% of leaf oil): A powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent
Flavonoids (quercetin, catechins, luteolin): Potent antioxidants
Polyphenols: Responsible for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities
Vitamins (esp. Vitamin C): Contribute to immune support and antioxidant defense

Lemon myrtle contains negligible calories, fats, and proteins but is an abundant source of bioactive plant compounds that contribute to its health benefits.

Health Benefits Of Lemon Myrtle

1. Rich In Antioxidants

Lemon myrtle is a significant source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols, which neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that damage cells and accelerate aging. By scavenging these free radicals, lemon myrtle helps protect against oxidative stress and supports overall cellular health.

Promotes skin youthfulness and glow
Reduces the risk of chronic diseases tied to oxidative damage

2. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Research demonstrates that extracts of lemon myrtle can inhibit inflammatory processes at the cellular level, especially by reducing the production of cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. This has promising implications for managing conditions associated with chronic inflammation, including arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Potential for supporting inflammatory conditions
May alleviate symptoms of swelling, redness, and pain

3. Supports Immune Function

By combating inflammation and loading the body with antioxidants, lemon myrtle can help bolster the immune system. Flavonoids in particular are believed to both strengthen immune defenses and cultivate a healthy balance of gut microbes, which play a vital role in immune health.

Contributes to better resistance against infection
Promotes a balanced gut, which is crucial for immunity

4. Antimicrobial And Antifungal Actions

The high citral content of lemon myrtle oil is well established for its potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Laboratory studies show lemon myrtle oil is effective in inhibiting the growth of various pathogens, making it a popular ingredient in natural disinfectants, oral care items, and topical skin preparations.

Useful in managing skin rashes, acne, and minor wounds
Can help neutralize harmful microbes in food and surfaces

5. Digestive Health Booster

Lemon myrtle’s soothing properties have been traditionally used to relieve digestive discomforts, such as bloating, cramps, and indigestion. The plant’s flavonoids may also foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a diverse and balanced gut microbiome.

Offers mild relief from gastrointestinal disturbances
Encourages healthy digestion and regularity

6. May Aid Weight Management

Early findings suggest that citral, the main constituent of lemon myrtle, may help regulate blood sugar and fat metabolism, potentially supporting weight management goals. More studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.

May reduce accumulation of body fat
Potential adjunct to a weight management plan

7. Skin Health Benefits

Lemon myrtle’s antimicrobial and antioxidant properties make it a valuable natural remedy for various skin concerns, including acne, irritation, and minor infections. Skincare formulations often feature lemon myrtle for its ability to calm, protect, and rejuvenate the skin.

Helps clear and soothe problem skin
Shields against environmental damage

8. Potential Muscle Health Support

Emerging research indicates that lemon myrtle extracts may stimulate the growth and proliferation of skeletal muscle satellite cells, which are essential for muscle repair and hypertrophy. This suggests potential applications for those seeking to maintain or build muscular health, especially in aging populations.

9. Natural Insect Repellent

Lemon myrtle essential oil exhibits strong repellent activity against ticks and other insects, attributed to its high citral content. It is increasingly used as a botanical alternative to chemical repellents, especially for those sensitive to synthetic options.

Other Potential Benefits

Respiratory relief: Traditional use includes soothing sore throats and easing congestion.
Aromatherapy: The delightful citrus fragrance is known to uplift mood and promote relaxation.
Mild preservative: Its antimicrobial effects make it a natural choice in food preservation.

Traditional Uses Of Lemon Myrtle

Australian Aboriginal communities have long used lemon myrtle leaves for both food flavoring and traditional remedies. Historic uses include:

Chewing leaves or brewing them in tea for headache relief, coughs, and colds
Applying poultices made from leaves to wounds and skin conditions
Burning leaves for ceremonial cleansing and to repel insects

Today, lemon myrtle remains a popular herb in Australian bush medicine and is increasingly embraced by herbalists worldwide.

How To Use Lemon Myrtle

Versatile and aromatic, lemon myrtle can be enjoyed in a variety of forms:

Tea: Infuse dried leaves in hot water for a citrusy herbal tea.
Spice: Add crushed leaves to marinades, desserts, sauces, and dressings.
Essential Oil: Use in vaporization, aromatherapy, natural cleaning, and (with care) skincare products.
Capsules/Supplements: Available in select natural health stores; always follow professional advice.

Note: Lemon myrtle’s essential oil is highly concentrated and must be diluted appropriately before applying to the skin or ingesting. Always consult a healthcare provider prior to internal use of concentrate or oil.

Precautions and Side Effects

Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people may experience skin irritation or allergies, particularly with undiluted essential oil.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Safety data is limited; pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Internal Use of Oils: Never consume lemon myrtle essential oil undiluted, and always use under professional guidance.

Nutritional And Health Comparison Table

Component	Function	Health Benefit
Citral	Antimicrobial, Flavor	Combats bacteria and fungi; imparts citrus aroma
Flavonoids (Quercetin, Catechin)	Antioxidant	Protects cells from oxidative stress
Polyphenols	Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant	Reduces inflammation; supports immune health
Vitamin C	Immune booster	Improves overall immune function

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lemon Myrtle

Q: What does lemon myrtle taste like?

A: Lemon myrtle offers an intense, clean citrus flavor with slight herbal notes, easily surpassing lemon or lemongrass in zestiness.

Q: Is lemon myrtle safe for daily use?

A: Lemon myrtle leaves are safe as a flavoring or tea when used as intended. Essential oils should be diluted and used with care.

Q: Can lemon myrtle help fight infections?

A: Scientific research supports its antibacterial and antifungal actions, making it an effective traditional remedy for certain infections.

Q: What are the primary medicinal compounds in lemon myrtle?

A: Citral, flavonoids (such as quercetin and catechin), polyphenols, and vitamin C are among the most potent, each providing unique health benefits.

Q: How do I store lemon myrtle?

A: Store dried leaves in an airtight container away from moisture and light. Essential oils should be kept in dark glass bottles and used within their shelf life.

Key Takeaways

Lemon myrtle is an aromatic Australian herb celebrated for its wellness benefits.
Rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, it supports immunity, skin, digestion, and potentially metabolism.
Safe when properly used, lemon myrtle adds fragrance, flavor, and functional benefits to food, wellness, and household products.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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