Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Myrtle
Lemon myrtle continues to gain popularity beyond its native Australia, prompting many questions from consumers interested in incorporating this aromatic herb into their cooking, wellness routines, and gardens. The plant's unique properties and multiple applications can seem overwhelming at first, but understanding the basics helps you make informed decisions about purchasing and using lemon myrtle products.
This comprehensive FAQ addresses the most common questions we receive about lemon myrtle, from basic identification and culinary uses to health benefits and sourcing options. Whether you're interested in brewing lemon myrtle tea, growing your own tree, or exploring essential oil applications, you'll find practical answers based on scientific research and traditional knowledge. For more detailed information about the plant's origins and commercial development, visit our about page, which explores lemon myrtle's journey from Australian rainforests to international markets.
What is lemon myrtle?
Lemon myrtle is an Australian native plant known for its intensely citrus-flavored leaves that are used as a culinary herb and natural flavoring. The leaves contain high levels of citral, giving them a stronger lemon flavor than actual lemons. Scientifically named Backhousia citriodora, this evergreen tree grows naturally in the subtropical rainforests of Queensland and northern New South Wales. The citral concentration in lemon myrtle leaves ranges from 90% to 98%, compared to just 2-3% in lemon peel, making it one of the most potent natural sources of this compound. Aboriginal Australians have used the plant for thousands of years, while commercial cultivation began in the 1990s as part of Australia's native food industry expansion.
How do you use lemon myrtle in cooking?
Lemon myrtle leaves can be used fresh or dried to flavor teas, desserts, marinades, and savory dishes. Simply crush or grind the leaves to release their oils and add them like you would other herbs or spices. Due to the intense flavor, use approximately one-third to one-half the amount you would use of lemon zest. For baking, add 1-2 teaspoons of ground lemon myrtle per cup of flour in cakes, cookies, and shortbread. In savory cooking, crush whole dried leaves and add them to marinades for fish, chicken, or pork, using about 1 tablespoon per pound of protein. The leaves maintain their flavor when heated, unlike fresh citrus zest. For beverages, steep dried leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes to make a caffeine-free herbal tea, or infuse them in olive oil for 2-3 weeks to create a flavored cooking oil.
What are the health benefits of lemon myrtle?
Lemon myrtle contains antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that may support immune health and digestion. It's also naturally caffeine-free, making it a healthy alternative to traditional teas. Research from Southern Cross University demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and fungi including Candida albicans. The high citral content provides these antimicrobial effects, while phenolic compounds measured at 47.3 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram offer antioxidant benefits. Traditional Aboriginal use included treating digestive complaints, and contemporary herbalists recommend the tea for gentle digestive support. A 2008 study in the International Journal of Aromatherapy showed that exposure to lemon myrtle aroma improved alertness and reduced stress markers in participants. However, claims about anabolic or muscle-building effects lack scientific support, and consumers should verify health claims before using supplements.
Where can I buy lemon myrtle?
Lemon myrtle can be purchased online, at specialty spice shops, health food stores, and some gourmet grocery stores. It's available in various forms including dried leaves, powder, and essential oil. Online retailers like Amazon, specialty Australian food importers, and herbal suppliers stock lemon myrtle tea bags, loose dried leaves, and ground powder. Essential oils are available from companies including Young Living, doTERRA, and Australian boutique producers, typically priced between $15 and $35 per 15-milliliter bottle. Whole Foods and other natural food stores increasingly carry lemon myrtle tea in their herbal tea sections. For fresh leaves or live trees, check with specialty nurseries that focus on Australian natives or exotic plants, particularly in USDA zones 9-11 where the trees grow outdoors. Many Australian online retailers ship internationally, though import regulations vary by country and may restrict plant material.
What is lemon myrtle essential oil good for?
Lemon myrtle essential oil is valued for aromatherapy, natural cleaning products, and diluted topical applications. The oil contains 90-98% citral, creating an intensely fresh, lemony aroma that's more complex than simple citrus oils. In aromatherapy, diffuse 3-5 drops in a standard diffuser to promote alertness, reduce stress, and create an uplifting atmosphere. The oil blends well with eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, and other citrus oils. Research from the University of Queensland in 2015 demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against common household bacteria, making it useful in DIY cleaning solutions when properly diluted. For topical use, dilute to 2-3% concentration in a carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil, though skin sensitivity testing is essential since citral can cause irritation above 5% concentration. The oil's antimicrobial properties also make it popular in natural skincare formulations, particularly for acne-prone skin, though individual results vary.
Can I grow a lemon myrtle tree at home?
Yes, lemon myrtle trees can be grown at home in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, or in containers that can be moved indoors in cooler climates. The trees prefer subtropical conditions with temperatures between 50-85°F and don't tolerate frost well. In suitable outdoor climates like southern California, Florida, and coastal Texas, plant in well-draining soil with regular water and partial to full sun exposure. Container-grown specimens work well for colder regions, using pots at least 15-20 gallons for mature plants. Bring containers indoors when temperatures drop below 40°F, placing them near south-facing windows with adequate light. Trees typically reach 5-8 meters in cultivation, smaller than the 20-meter height possible in native rainforests. You can begin harvesting leaves once the tree reaches 3-4 feet tall, typically 2-3 years after planting. Specialty nurseries focusing on Australian natives or exotic plants offer lemon myrtle trees, with prices ranging from $25 for small seedlings to $100+ for established plants.
How does lemon myrtle tea compare to regular tea?
Lemon myrtle tea differs fundamentally from regular tea because it contains zero caffeine and comes from a completely different plant family. Traditional black, green, and white teas all derive from Camellia sinensis and contain 25-50 mg of caffeine per 8-ounce cup, while lemon myrtle tea is completely caffeine-free, making it suitable for evening consumption or for those avoiding stimulants. The flavor profile is intensely lemony without the tartness or acidity of lemon-flavored black teas, which often combine Camellia sinensis with lemon peel or artificial flavoring. Lemon myrtle tea provides antioxidants from phenolic compounds rather than the catechins found in traditional tea. Preparation differs slightly as well: lemon myrtle steeps best at 200-205°F for 5-7 minutes, while green tea requires cooler water (160-180°F) to prevent bitterness. The resulting brew has a clean, refreshing taste that works well hot or iced, and unlike black tea, it doesn't become bitter with extended steeping time.
Is lemon myrtle safe for everyone?
Lemon myrtle is generally safe for most people when used as a culinary herb or tea, but certain precautions apply for essential oil and concentrated extract use. The herb has been consumed safely in Australia for thousands of years and is approved as a food flavoring. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before consuming large amounts or using essential oil, as safety data for these populations remains limited. The essential oil requires careful handling due to its high citral content, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Always dilute essential oil to 2-3% or less for topical use and perform a patch test first. People with citrus allergies may experience cross-reactivity, though lemon myrtle is botanically unrelated to citrus fruits. Children can safely consume lemon myrtle tea and foods, but essential oil should be kept out of reach and used only under adult supervision with appropriate dilution. Those taking medications should verify potential interactions with their healthcare provider, though no significant drug interactions have been documented.
How should I store lemon myrtle products?
Proper storage extends the shelf life and preserves the aromatic qualities of lemon myrtle products. Dried leaves should be kept in airtight glass or metal containers away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. When stored correctly in a cool, dark pantry, dried lemon myrtle leaves maintain their potency for 18-24 months, though the most intense flavor occurs within the first year. Ground lemon myrtle powder loses potency faster than whole leaves, remaining optimal for 6-12 months in airtight storage. Essential oil should be stored in dark glass bottles (amber or cobalt blue) in a cool location, ideally between 60-70°F. Properly stored essential oil lasts 2-4 years depending on quality, though citral content gradually decreases over time. Avoid storing the oil in plastic containers, as the compounds can degrade plastic and become contaminated. Fresh leaves can be refrigerated in plastic bags with a damp paper towel for up to one week, or frozen for up to six months. For long-term storage, dry fresh leaves by hanging them in bundles in a warm, dry, dark location for 1-2 weeks until crispy.
Lemon Myrtle Product Forms and Pricing
| Product Form | Typical Package Size | Price Range (USD) | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dried loose leaves | 1-2 oz (30-60g) | $8-15 | Tea, cooking, infusions |
| Tea bags | 20-30 bags | $6-12 | Convenient tea preparation |
| Ground powder | 1-2 oz (30-60g) | $10-18 | Baking, seasoning blends |
| Essential oil | 15ml (0.5 oz) | $15-35 | Aromatherapy, diluted topical use |
| Live tree/seedling | 4-6 inch pot | $25-50 | Home cultivation |
| Infused olive oil | 8 oz (250ml) | $18-30 | Cooking, salad dressings |
Additional Resources
- USDA Agricultural Research Service - The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides resources on growing exotic and native plants in various climate zones across the United States.
- Essential oil safety guidelines - For comprehensive essential oil safety guidelines, consult the National Capital Poison Center, which provides information on proper dilution and handling.
- FDA GRAS database - The FDA GRAS database provides information on food ingredients recognized as safe for consumption.
Learn More
For more information about lemon myrtle, visit our home page or explore the about us section to learn about the plant's history and our mission.