Introduction

The citral chemotype is more prevalent and is cultivated in Australia for flavouring and essential oil. Citral as an isolate in steam distilled lemon myrtle oil is typically 90–98%, and oil yield 1–3% from fresh leaf. It is the highest natural source of citral. The citronellal chemotype is uncommon, and can be used as an insect repellent..

Other Details

Essential oils are used extensively in pharmacy, medicine, food, beverages, cosmetics, perfumery and aromatherapy. The increased usage of essential oils worldwide has raised a number of concerns in relation to adverse health effects which need to be addressed.

Biological Activity Details

Reference

1. 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.

2. Wilkinson, Jenny M., et al. "Bioactivity of Backhousia citriodora: antibacterial and antifungal activity." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 51.1 (2003): 76-81.

Major Compound Details

Minor Compound Details