Lemon Myrtle

 Backhousia citriodora

Botanical Overview

Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is an evergreen tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to the subtropical rainforests of Queensland and northern New South Wales, Australia. The tree has glossy green leaves that release a strong lemon aroma when crushed. Small creamy white flowers appear in clusters during the summer months.

The leaves are the primary medicinal and culinary part of the plant and contain exceptionally high levels of citral, the compound responsible for lemon scent and many of lemon myrtle’s therapeutic actions.

Historical and Traditional Use

Lemon myrtle has a long history of traditional use by Aboriginal Australians, who valued the leaves for their medicinal, aromatic, and culinary properties. The leaves were traditionally used to support general wellbeing, soothe digestive discomfort, and treat infections.

In more recent history, lemon myrtle gained popularity in Australian herbal medicine during the 20th century and is now recognised internationally for its antimicrobial, digestive, and calming properties. It is widely used in teas, extracts, skincare, and natural cleaning products.

Herbal Actions

In herbal medicine, lemon myrtle is traditionally described as:

• Antimicrobial

•  Antiviral

•  Antifungal

•  Carminative

•  Antispasmodic

•  Digestive tonic

•  Mild nervine

Medicinal Uses

Digestive Support

Lemon myrtle is commonly used to support digestive health. Its carminative and antispasmodic properties help relieve bloating, gas, cramping, and mild digestive discomfort. It is often used for functional digestive issues and may be particularly helpful where symptoms are aggravated by stress.

Immune and Antimicrobial Support

Lemon myrtle has strong antimicrobial activity, largely due to its high citral content. Traditionally and in modern herbal practice, it is used to support the body during bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

It may be used internally during colds and flu and externally for skin infections, acne, and fungal conditions.

Nervous System and Stress Support

Lemon myrtle has a gently calming effect on the nervous system. Its pleasant aroma and mild nervine action can help reduce nervous tension, stress, and mental fatigue while promoting a sense of clarity and uplifted mood.

It is commonly used as a tea or aromatic herb during times of stress or overwhelm.

Skin Health and Topical Use

Topically, lemon myrtle is valued for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often included in natural skincare formulations for acne-prone or congested skin.

When diluted appropriately, it may be used in washes, creams, and oils to support skin healing and cleanliness.

Energetics and Herbal Profile

Energetically, lemon myrtle is considered:

• Cooling

•  Drying

•  Clearing

•  Uplifting

It is especially useful where heat, infection, or stagnation are present, particularly in the digestive system or skin.

Preparations and Dosage Forms

Lemon myrtle is commonly prepared as:

Herbal tea (infusion of the leaves)
Liquid extract or tincture
Capsules
Essential oil (external and aromatic use only)
Topical creams and washes

The dried leaves are widely used as a tea and culinary herb.

Safety and Contraindications

Lemon myrtle is generally safe when used in appropriate amounts.

Cautions include:

Essential oil should never be used undiluted on the skin
Internal use of essential oil should only be under professional guidance
May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals if used topically at high concentrations

Lemon myrtle tea and culinary use are considered safe for most people.

Lemon Myrtle in Modern Herbal Practice

Lemon myrtle has become an important herb in contemporary herbal medicine, particularly within Australian practice. Its strong antimicrobial properties combined with gentle digestive and nervous system support make it a valuable herb for modern health challenges.

Refreshing, cleansing, and supportive, lemon myrtle bridges traditional knowledge and modern herbal applications.