What Is Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil? Benefits, Uses & How to Use It
Lemon Myrtle essential oil is a highly aromatic oil steam-distilled from the leaves of the Australian native plant Backhousia citriodora. Renowned for its exceptionally high citral content, this uplifting botanical oil is primarily used in aromatherapy, air purification, and home cleaning.
Where does Lemon Myrtle essential oil come from?
Lemon Myrtle essential oil is sourced from Backhousia citriodora, a flowering shrub native to the subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland, Australia. Indigenous Australians have traditionally valued these native leaves for centuries, utilizing them for both wellness and flavouring. Today, the plant is sustainably cultivated across fertile regions of Australia to produce this highly sought-after botanical extract.
What does Lemon Myrtle oil smell like?
Lemon Myrtle oil possesses an intensely sweet, clean, and lemon-like aroma that is often described as more vibrant than lemon itself. This top-to-middle note oil features rich herbaceous undertones and a bright, crisp finish that immediately refreshes any room. Its robust aromatic profile makes it highly effective at cutting through stagnant odours and creating an energising indoor environment.
What are the key constituents of Lemon Myrtle essential oil?
The distinctive properties of this oil are driven by its chemical makeup, which boasts the highest natural concentration of citral found in any known plant species.
| Constituent | % Range | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Geranial (Citral A) | 45% – 60% | Bright, strong citrus scent providing potent surface-cleansing properties. |
| Neral (Citral B) | 35% – 45% | Sweet, lemony fragrance compound that supports emotional grounding. |
| Myrcene | 0.5% – 2.0% | Peppery, balsamic nuance that enhances overall aromatic longevity. |
| Linalool | Trace – 1.0% | Soft, woody floral undertone that adds complex depth to the oil's profile. |
How is Lemon Myrtle essential oil extracted?
The extraction of Lemon Myrtle essential oil is achieved through the gentle process of steam distillation. Freshly harvested leaves and green twigs are placed in a distillation chamber where low-pressure steam releases the aromatic compounds locked within the foliage. The steam is then cooled, condensing back into a liquid state where the pure essential oil naturally separates from the water, preserving its potent botanical profile.
How do you use Lemon Myrtle oil?
You can diffuse this vibrant oil to freshen and purify the air in your home or office. Simply add 3 to 5 drops of Lemon Myrtle oil to your ultrasonic diffuser to neutralise unwanted household odours.
For topical applications, always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, to prevent skin irritation. Following general safety guidelines, keep the dilution ratio low, mixing about 3 to 6 drops of essential oil per 30ml of fractionated coconut oil. Never ingest this oil or use it in food preparation, as essential oils are highly concentrated extracts meant solely for external use.
What does Lemon Myrtle oil blend well with?
Lemon Myrtle oil is an excellent blending partner that pairs beautifully with several other botanical aromas:
- Eucalyptus: Creates a clearing, spa-like atmosphere perfect for deep breathing.
- Tea Tree: Enhances the deep, purifying, and earthy qualities of home cleaning blends.
- Lavender: Softens the intense citrus edge with a gentle, calming floral sweetness.
- Sandalwood: Grounds the bright top notes with a rich, woody, and luxurious base note.
- Peppermint: Boosts the cool, crisp, and revitalising characteristics of the scent.
Is Lemon Myrtle essential oil safe?
Due to its high concentration of citral, Lemon Myrtle essential oil is a potential skin sensitiser. Always perform a patch test on a small patch of skin prior to topical application, and discontinue use immediately if irritation occurs. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, or plan to use it around infants.
Store your oil in a tightly sealed amber glass bottle in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage prevents oxidation, ensuring the oil remains stable, aromatic, and safe to use over its shelf life.
Where to buy Lemon Myrtle essential oil in Australia
When purchasing botanical oils, quality, purity, and ethical sourcing are key. purelyBlack offers high-quality, sustainably sourced Lemon Myrtle essential oil that is meticulously tested to ensure its pure botanical integrity. Every bottle is carefully prepared and packaged in Australia, delivering an authentic native oil you can confidently introduce to your daily aromatherapy rituals.
Explore Our Lemon Myrtle Oil Guides
- The Ultimate Guide to Pure Lemon Myrtle Oil for Natural Cleaning in Australia
- The Ultimate Guide to Pure Lemon Myrtle Oil for Natural Cleaning in Australia
- Best Pure Lemon Myrtle Oil for Oily Skin and Blemishes in Australia
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a healthcare professional before use.
About the Author: Formulated & Written by H.R. Kim
Founder at purelyBlack — an Australian-owned botanical perfumery and essential oil supplier based in Sydney. Blending a deep knowledge of molecular ingredient chemistry with holistic aromatherapy, H.R. specialises in creating harmonious, safe, and effective essential oil blends for natural home fragrance, cosmetic balancing, and daily wellness.
