Lemon Myrtle

Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a flowering plant in the family Myrtaceae, native to the subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland, Australia. Known for its sweet, citrusy scent, Lemon Myrtle is often used in cooking, essential oils, and traditional medicine.

Description

Lemon Myrtle is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The leaves are lanceolate, bright green, and emit a strong lemon scent when crushed. The plant produces clusters of white flowers in the summer.

Uses

Lemon Myrtle has a variety of uses in culinary, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine.

Culinary Uses

In Australian cuisine, Lemon Myrtle is used to flavor dishes with its tangy citrus taste. It is often used in recipes as a substitute for lemon, lemongrass, and lime. The leaves can be used fresh or dried and ground into a spice.

Aromatherapy

The essential oil of Lemon Myrtle is used in aromatherapy for its calming and uplifting properties. It is known to help reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

Traditional Medicine

In traditional Australian medicine, Lemon Myrtle has been used to treat a range of conditions, including colds, sore throats, and skin disorders. It is known for its strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Cultivation

Lemon Myrtle can be grown in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained, rich soils. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought, but thrives in areas with regular rainfall.

Conservation

While not currently listed as threatened, the natural habitat of Lemon Myrtle is shrinking due to deforestation and urban development. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving its natural habitat and promoting sustainable harvesting practices.

See Also

• List of Australian native plants
• Australian cuisine
• Aromatherapy
• Traditional medicine

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