How To Do Organic Lemon Myrtle Farming In India
"With its therapeutic and fragrant leaves and flowers, lemon myrtle is a grat addition to any graden"
The lemony fragrance of the leaves of this rainforest tree is unmistakeable, especially when they're crushed. It's one of the reasons florists use branches as fillers in bouquets and why the dried leaves can be used as an air freshener in small enclosed spaces such as wardrobes and caravans.
Lemon myrtle essential oil is said to have a stronger lemon fragrance than any other oil, which is why it's used in the cosmetics industry as well as the pharmaceutical and food industries.Its heavenly fragrance enhances soaps, moisturisers, hair products, lip balms and shower gels, not just in Australia but all over the world.
It's the citral in the plant that gives it its lemon fragrance and, incidentally, many of its health benefits. In fact, lemon myrtle is said to have the highest citral content of any plant in the world.
Health Benefits Of Lemon Myrtle Herbs
Rich in minerals calcium, zinc and magnesium, as well as vitamins A and E, lemon myrtle is known to have powerful antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and antiviral properties. This is backed up by various scientific studies of its effectiveness on a viral skin condition in children, and against seven kinds of bacteria including some antibiotic-resistant strains.
Of 44 herbal tea extracts tested for their effect on dental cavity-causing biofilms, extract of lemon myrtle had the third-highest polyphenol content of all those tested and was strongly effective on the Streptococcus mutans biofilm, so get gargling!
It has also been used to treat colds, flus, sore throats, fevers and digestive upsets, as well as headaches, muscle cramps and allergies. It's said to be immune-enhancing and to have potent antioxidant properties that can help fight cancer and other diseases. Used topically, it can assist with problems such as warts, cold sores and acne.
Gradening Tips To Grow Lemon Myrtle Herbs Organically
Lemon myrtle is an attractive plant in the garden with its fragrant glossy leaves and pretty, fluffy clusters of white flowers in autumn, which also have a lovely scent. As it's very low-branching, it's a good plant for screening or hedging.
Though a subtropical native endemic to coastal rainforest areas of northern NSW and Queensland, it can be grown in cooler areas as long as it has a warm, sheltered spot in full sun or part shade with well-drained soil. Add organic matter to the soil before planting and apply a layer of compost in spring and autumn.
Uses Of Lemon Myrtle Herbs
- In cooking, the leaves can be thrown in whole to add a citrusy zest to dishes. Break the spines of the leaves to bring out the flavour.
- With their lemon-lime taste they can substitute for kaffir lime leaves,lemongrass or lemon zest in curries,sauces, desserts and cheesecakees.
- The leaves can also be used to flavour alcoholic drinks, cordials and a refreshing,calming therapeutic herbal tea.
- Store the fresh leaves in the fridge or freezer, or dry them and keep in an airtight container for up to seven years.
Scientific Details Of Lemon Myrtle Herbs
- Common name: Lemon myrtle, lemon ironwood, sweet verbena tree
- Botanical name: Backhousia citriodora
- Family: Myrtaceae
- Aspect & soil: Sun: well-drained soil
- Climate: Most
- Habit: Annual herb
- Propagation: Seed, seedling
- Difficulty: Easy