(Backhousia citriodora) Traditionally used to support healthy breathing, immune response and to soothe minor skin issues. It is uplifting and may promote restful sleep.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid oral use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Robert Tisserand reported at a Clinical Safety Aromatherapy conference (2013) that there is a possibility that Citral (in Lemon Myrtle) may affect tooth and bone development in the fetus. "Citral impairs reproductive performance in female rats by reducing the number of ovarian follicles (Toaff et al 1979). The effect, however, was seen only after a series of six monthly ip injections at a dose of 300 mg/kg. This is equivalent to injecting ~ 25mL of lemongrass oil into a woman's abdomen. Based on other research, we have restricted citral exposure in pregnancy." Tisserand's maximum daily oral dose during pregnancy is less than 2 drops (46mg). Medication/Health Issue: Caution All Routes: Drugs metabolized by CYP2B6 (if unsure, ask your MD or pharmacist) Caution Orally: Diabetes medication,
Research Lemon Myrtle is an extremely potent anti-bacterial and germicide that is reputed to be a much more effective germ killer than the more familiar Tea Tree essential oil (Kerr, 2002).
It has been noted to benefit acne, chest congestion, colds, sinus congestion, flu, oily skin, repels moths, mosquitoes and silverfish. Lemon Myrtle is ideal to diffuse in winter months with its cheerful lemon scent and powerful germicidal action. It is also relaxing, uplifting and soothing for sleep time, even for those who suffer with insomnia. Ideal to use in ointments for cold sores and genital herpes (Purchon/Cantele).
Molluscum Contagiosum Lemon Myrtle is used by physicians (at 10% dilution) to treat Molluscum Contagiosum, which is a contagious disease of the skin marked by the occurrence of rounded soft tumors of the skin caused by the growth of a virus. Because this oil is thought to be highly irritating to the skin, we recommend that you properly dilute Lemon Myrtle if you try it so that the skin is not irritated. "In the clinical trial, 31 children (mean age 4.6 years) were treated for molluscum contagiosum with a 10% solution of lemon myrtle oil in olive oil daily for 21 days with 90% reduction in the number of lesions in 9/16 children. There were no significant adverse effects (Burke et al 2004)." Molluscum Contagiosum is characterized by the appearance of a few to numerous small, pearly, umbilicated down growths called molluscum bodies or condyloma subcutaneum. Molluscum contagiosum is mainly seen in children. In teenagers and adults it is often transmitted sexually, and as such may be considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD). It is a benign disorder that usually clears up by itself.
Also see HEO's Molluscum Contagiosum Blend
2.0 ml Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia) 2.0 ml Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora) 0.5 ml Thyme ct thymol (Thymus vulgaris) 0.5 ml Melissa (Melissa officinalis) Carrier Oils 2.0 ml Tamanu (Calophyllum inophyllum) 2.0 ml St. John's Wort infused oil (Hypericum perforatum) 5.0 ml Rose Hip Seed Oil (Rosa rubiginosa) The essential oils have anti-viral properties and promote skin healing. They should reduce scarring and strengthen immune deficiencies. The carrier oils are known to assist wound healing and skin regeneration. The mixture was applied directly to the lesions three times daily using a cotton swab soaked in the blend. It was reported in the article that by the second day, all lesions were reduced in size. By the fifth day were completely resolved, and no skin irritation was observed. The mother had been instructed to add another 5ml of the St John's Wort infused oil to the formula if any skin irritation was observed. [Harris, R. Case study Molluscum contagiosum. Int. J. Aromatherapy. 2004; 14: 139-40]
Blends well with: Citrus oils Bay Laurel Eucalyptus Pine Rosemary Thyme
Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil, unscented lotion or unscented cream and apply on area of concern or as desired. Consider using a roll-on applicator for ease of application of prediluted oil. Possible skin sensitivity - for some, even a 1% dilution may irritate the skin. Tisserand's suggested dilution for topical use: 7 drops per fluid ounce (0.7%). Children: Use caution with infants and children under 2 years of age. Contains Citral (Geranial), which is a strong sensitizer. Avoid use on broken skin. Suggested dilution for topical use should not exceed 7 drops per fluid ounce (0.7%). Inhalation: Diffuse or use a personal Nasal Inhaler, use as an air freshener, add several drops to water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray.
Internal: Lemon Myrtle is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application.
Pregnancy: Tisserand's maximum daily oral dose during pregnancy is less than 2 drops (46mg). Oral Caution: CYP2B6 substrates (some antidepressants) and diabetes medication. Click here for information about internal usage. May be used in food preparations such as: vinaigrette mayonnaise salad dressings cold custards sorbets cheese cakes ice cream milk or oil based foods where no heat is applied after the oil has been added NOTE: Because of its potency, just a drop or two will usually be enough - a little will go a long way.
5. The other day I used Lemon Myrtle (diluted) on my chest and back of my neck, and I slept all night in a very deep sleep, which was so nice! - Lana
