Backhousia Citriodora (Lemon Myrtle) CO2 Extract

Lemon Myrtle is an Australian tree that can grow as tall as 60-plus feet. While its clustered white flowers are its most eye-catching feature, the tree’s leaves provide its botanical benefits.

Ever crushed a lemon balm leaf and released that fresh, lemony scent? Lemon myrtle leaves are significantly more fragrant, and the plant is thought to have the highest amount of citral – a compound that gives off a citrus scent – of any natural source.

Beyond the fresh scent, citral is also a powerful cleansing agent, making lemon myrtle extract antibacterial and antimicrobial – an excellent natural ingredient for any cleanser.

That being said, if you plan to use this extract in any kind of homemade remedy, be sure to dilute it: the antiseptic nature of the plant makes it highly astringent. Much like tea tree oil, it can be harsh on skin in larger quantities.

Find it in our:
Lemon Myrtle & Geranium Deodorant

Sources:
Wilkinson, Jenny M., and Heather Cavanagh. “Antibacterial activity of essential oils from Australian native plants.” Phytotherapy Research 19.7 (2005): 643-646.

Hayes, A. J., and B. Markovic. “Toxicity of Australian essential oil Backhousia citriodora (Lemon myrtle). Part 1. Antimicrobial activity and in vitro cytotoxicity.” Food and Chemical Toxicology 40.4 (2002): 535-543.