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Lemon myrtle essential oil (Backhousia citriodora) has an emotionally uplifting scent and is a mild mental stimulant. The aroma can help relieve stuck emotions, especially negative thoughts and pessimism, according to Aromatica: A Clinical Guide to Essential Oil Therapeutics, Vol. 2.
The book notes that the essential oil is relaxing and cooling physically, making it useful for relieving tense and hot conditions with spasms, pain, and inflammation. The oil may also help fight colds, flu, and fungus.
Other information comes from The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Third Edition, Vol. 1: Lemon myrtle may support the immune system and help relieve flu and related conditions. Psychologically, the scent is relaxing and emotionally uplifting. The oil also may help improve concentration and work as a mental stimulant.
Lemon myrtle can help deodorize the air, support the respiratory system, and prevent seasonal illness, according to Plant Therapy. The clean, uplifting scent, makes the essential oil a great addition to household cleaners and natural air fresheners.
Note: Lemon myrtle is NOT the same as myrtle (Myrtus communis).
Plant family: Myrtaceae
Production: Steam distilled from the leaves of Backhousia citriodora, which is an evergreen tree native to Queensland, Australia.
Aroma: Clear, strong lemon scent.
Perfume/Aromatic note: Middle to top.
Main components: The two main components of lemon myrtle are geranial (46.1–60.7%) and neral (32.0–40.9%), according to Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Edition. You will also see these two components together referred to as citral.
Is lemon myrtle safe to use during pregnancy? The only direct reference I could find to pregnancy was in Aromatica, Vol. 2, which recommends caution.
Is lemon myrtle essential oil safe for children? Use caution with children under age 2, according to Essential Oil Safety. Aromatica recommends avoiding use with children under 2.
Cautions: Essential Oil Safety recommends a minimum dilution of 0.7% (1 drop in just under 1.5 teaspoon carrier oil) for using this essential oil on the skin to avoid skin sensitization. Also, be cautious using the oil on hypersensitive, diseased, or damaged skin.
Although lemon myrtle is sometimes called lemon ironbark, real lemon ironbark is a different species — Eucalyptus staigeriana.
Diffuse the essential oil for an uplifting effect or to relieve mental fatigue.
Diffuser Blend for Energy
Start your day with this blend or use it as an afternoon pick-me-up:
Alternately, for an on-the-go energy boost, use this blend to make a personal aromatherapy inhaler.
Source: Plant Therapy
Here are two other inhaler blends:
Source: Eden's Garden
For immune support or to clear up congestion:
Important: This method is not safe for small children.
Alternatively,
mix 1 drop essential oil in 2 teaspoons carrier oil. Use the blend as a
chest rub to help promote clear breathing and break up congestion.
Here's a cleaning spray for bathroom surfaces, kitchen counters, and glass surfaces. Do NOT use on granite countertops.
Combine ingredients in an 8-ounce spray bottle. Shake well before using. Use within a month.
Source: Best Essential Oils For Spring Cleaning
Photo Credit: BotBin, CC BY-SA 3.0