Lemon Myrtle, a fresh citrusy native that's packed with health benefits....

Have you been spying Lemon Myrtle around the place (like in Simply Clean's Air Freshener that features in our 'Bloom' retreat) and wondering just why it is such an adored plant? Well we'll tell you. 

It's scientific name is Backhousia citriodora. Can’t get your tongue around that? Then call it by its more common name – lemon myrtle.

Most of us know about lemon myrtle – an Australian native found in rainforest areas of the country with fragrant leaves that have hints of lemon, lime and lemongrass.

You may know about the health benefits. You probably know lemon myrtle is found in some cleaning products. You may also know that it’s used in cooking.

But there’s a lot more to this plant than first thought... 

Our friends from Simply Clean have shared some insight into the wonders of Lemon Myrtle with us below...

THE HISTORY OF LEMON MYRTLE
For centuries, Australian Aboriginal people have used the leaves, which are prominent in bush foods, as a seasoning. They also used it as bush medicine and today the health benefits attributed to lemon myrtle are many and varied.
In the early 1900s, lemon myrtle was distilled in a factory located in the small town, Eumundi, on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland. In 1920, it was discovered that the distilled steam had antimicrobial qualities.
Lemon myrtle found worldwide fame when Jamie Oliver used it in one of his dishes. He described it as ‘pukka’ (translated: really good).

HEALTH BENEFITS OF LEMON MYRTLE
Even 100 years ago, it was known that lemon myrtle has a high citral content, which is a powerful antimicrobial and synthesises vitamin A. 
Today, specialists are still discovering the exceptional properties of lemon myrtle. Lemon myrtle has significant antibacterial properties, as well as anti-fungal properties. Scientists at Charles Stuart University determined that lemon myrtle oil is a better anti-fungal and antibacterial agent than tea-tree oil* – in fact, its anti-microbial activity was shown to be 30% higher!
Although not considered a ‘medicine’, there is quite a long list of benefits attributed to lemon myrtle (according to those who use it in this way). These are just a few:

• Indigestion and Irritable Gastrointestinal Disorders. Certain lemon myrtle properties help to stimulate the digestion process.
• Bronchitis. The use of lemon myrtle essential oil can decrease inflammation as well and fight the infection.
• Influenza. Taking steam with few drops of lemon myrtle essential oil can help alleviate symptoms of the flu.
• Boosts Immune System. Taking lemon myrtle orally strengthens your immune system. You can use it in the form of tea, powder or oil.
• Sinus Infection. Lemon myrtle has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce infection.
• Oral Health. Lemon myrtle can be useful in treating mouth ulcers, irritation, tooth problems, etc. That’s because lemon myrtle cleanses the mouth, thus protecting it from bacteria.
• Sleep. The herb has a relaxing effect that can calm the mind.
• Sore Throat. Lemon myrtle has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Athlete’s Foot. Lemon myrtle has an anti-fungal property.
• Insect Bites. Applying lemon myrtle can calm the affected area and reduce inflammation.

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SimplyClean is all about high-quality household cleaning with a conscience. They are committed to helping Australian homes be as safe and healthy as possible. This has resulted in the creation of SimplyClean’s increasingly wide range of home care cleaning products that are completely non-toxic, carcinogen-free, sensitiser-free and as gentle as possible on human health and the environment.

You can find Simply Clean's Lemon Myrtle Air Freshener in our 'Bloom' retreat.
Shop the entire range at www.simplyclean.com.au and most health food stores and independent grocers.

Use code: RYSPRING for 10% off online until 30/11/21