Lemongrass, Lemon Tea Tree and Lemon Eucalyptus: Essential Oils of Lemony Aroma
Lemongrass, lemon tea tree, and lemon eucalyptus are all aromatic plants with citrusy and lemony scents. However, even if they have “lemon” in its name, they have different volatile content, aroma, and uses.
Lemon Tea Tree
Lemon tea tree (Leptospermum petersonii) is a member of the Myrtaceae family, native to Australia. Lemon tea tree is a small tree or shrub with narrow leaves that release a strong lemon fragrance when crushed. Lemon tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant. Lemon tea tree oil is primarily used for its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, making it a common ingredient in natural cleaning products, as well as in skincare and hair care formulations. Lemon tea tree contains neral, geranial, and citronellal.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), on the other hand, belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, India, and Africa. Lemongrass, as its name suggests, resembles grass with long, slender, blade-like leaves. Its lemony scent is released mainly from its leaves and stems. Lemongrass oil is usually extracted from the grass part of the plant. Lemongrass containes neral and geranial as its major volatile components, making it commonly used in culinary dishes, particularly in Asian cuisine, to add a lemony flavor. It's also used in teas, soups, curries, and as a natural insect repellent. Lemongrass has a long history of use in traditional medicine in many cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia, for its various health benefits.
Lemon eucalyptus
Lemon eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora), also known as lemon-scented gum, belongs to the Myrtaceae family. Lemon eucalyptus, while also possessing a lemon scent, is primarily valued for its essential oil, which is extracted from its leaves and branches. This oil is used as an insect repellent and in aromatherapy for its fresh, uplifting scent. Lemon eucalyptus oil is predominantly used as a natural insect repellent, particularly against mosquitoes, due to its high concentration of citronellal. Besides citronellal, lemon eucalyptus may contain small amounts of para-menthane-3,8-diol.
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