Lemon Myrtle

At a Glance

Common name

Lemon Myrtle

Scientific name

Backhousia citriodora

Family

Myrtaceae

Region

Australia

Plant part

Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An evergreen shrub with glossy lanceolate leaves rich in lemon-scented essential oil and small fluffy clusters of white flowers; the leaves are used.

Also known as: Lemon-Scented Myrtle, Sweet Verbena Tree

Historical Background

Lemon myrtle has been an Indigenous Australian fragrant bush plant for millennia, its intensely lemon-scented leaves used as a tea and flavoring. Today it is one of Australia's most prized native botanicals, brewed for a bright, caffeine-free citrus cup.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Australian traditions; a fragrant lemon-scented bush tea.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Intensely citrus-lemon, fresh, clean

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Lemon myrtle has a tradition as a fragrant calming, immune, and antioxidant tea; preclinical work shows strong antimicrobial and antioxidant activity from citral. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for infection or any disease, though it remains a bright, caffeine-free cup.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.