LEMON MYRTLE
Sweet smelling Lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a flowering Australian native tree with powerful foliage.
PROPERTIES OF LEMON MYRTLE
The lemon scented leaves are brimming with oil which contains the strongest and purest citral content of any known plant. Citral can be found in basil, lemongrass, lemons and other citrus plants. Citral is responsible for for the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal action of lemon myrtle and has also been shown to repel insects. Lemon myrtle’s antimicrobial properties are in fact stronger than that of the more renowned Australian native plants eucalyptus and tea tree.
HOW TO USE LEMON MYRTLE
The diluted oil is used topically to treat skin ailments, cuts, scrapes and wounds. It provides a refreshing protective and repairing element in skincare, especially in healing balms for problem skin.
Lemon Myrtle is a key ingredient in our Being Balm for its soothing, healing and protective qualities, as well as for its uplifting citrus scent.
HISTORY + FOLKLORE
Indigenous Australians have long used lemon myrtle leaves either fresh, or dried, as a medicine and food flavouring. Lemon myrtle infusions can be used to treat colds and flu, gastrointestinal disorders, headaches and fatigue. A powerful antioxidant, drinking lemon myrtle tea is believed to boost immune function and fight free radicals. Simply steep some leaves in boiling water to make an infusion and drink hot or make a lemonade to sip on during balmy summer days.
