Yes, Lemon Myrtle Leaves are Safe to Eat
Lemon myrtle, scientifically known as Backhousia citriodora, is a native Australian rainforest plant whose leaves are a popular culinary ingredient. Often called the “Queen of the Lemon Herbs,” it offers an intense, clean citrus flavour without the sharpness of lemons. You can find it sold as fresh leaves, dried leaves, or milled powder for cooking and tea. However, it is crucial to distinguish between the edible leaves and the highly concentrated essential oil, which is not intended for internal consumption and should be used with caution.
Health Benefits of Eating Lemon Myrtle
Beyond its culinary appeal, lemon myrtle offers several potential health benefits, primarily attributed to its high concentration of the compound citral, as well as antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals.
- Antioxidant Properties: Lemon myrtle is a powerhouse of antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress, a key factor in ageing and various diseases. Consuming the leaves in food or tea can help neutralize harmful free radicals.
- Antimicrobial and Antifungal Effects: The high citral content gives lemon myrtle strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Historically, Indigenous Australians used the leaves for medicinal purposes, and modern studies have confirmed its effectiveness against a range of microorganisms.
- Anti-inflammatory Potential: Research suggests that lemon myrtle extract possesses potent anti-inflammatory effects, which could benefit various inflammatory conditions.
- Supports Immune Health: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and minerals like zinc and magnesium, lemon myrtle helps support the immune system. Drinking lemon myrtle tea can be particularly beneficial during cold and flu season.
- Digestive Aid: Lemon myrtle tea is often used to soothe digestive issues and promote a balanced gut environment. Its antimicrobial properties can also help reduce harmful bacteria in the digestive tract.
Culinary Uses of Lemon Myrtle Leaves
The versatility of lemon myrtle makes it a prized ingredient in both sweet and savoury cooking. Its flavour profile is more robust than lemongrass and sweeter than lemon balm.
In Savoury Dishes
- Seasoning for Meats and Fish: The leaves, either whole or ground, can be used to infuse poultry, fish, and red meats with a rich, citrusy flavour. Try wrapping fresh leaves around fish before baking.
- Marinades and Sauces: A pinch of milled lemon myrtle is excellent in marinades, salad dressings, and sauces.
- Soups and Stews: Add dried or fresh leaves to stews or soups, much like bay leaves, to add a distinctive lemon zest.
In Sweet Dishes and Drinks
- Baked Goods: The ground leaves are a fantastic addition to cakes, biscuits, scones, and shortbread, offering a unique lemon twist.
- Teas and Infusions: One of the most popular uses is as a refreshing herbal tea. Simply steep dried or fresh leaves in hot water. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and even blended with other herbs like mint or chamomile.
- Desserts: Use it to flavour ice creams, custards, sorbets, and cheesecakes. Unlike lemon juice, it won’t curdle dairy-based desserts.
Important Precautions: Leaves vs. Essential Oil
While the leaves are safe for consumption, exercising caution is important. The essential oil is far more concentrated and has different safety considerations.
- Essential Oil Toxicity: Undiluted lemon myrtle essential oil can be toxic to human cells and should never be ingested directly. It can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in concentrated form. Always use essential oil externally, diluted to a maximum of 1% concentration.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough comprehensive research to confirm the absolute safety of consuming lemon myrtle during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The consensus recommends moderation and consulting a healthcare professional before use.
- Allergies: Individuals with known sensitivities to citral, the major component of lemon myrtle, might experience allergic skin reactions from topical exposure.
- Moderation is Key: As with any potent herb, consume lemon myrtle in moderation. While safe in typical culinary quantities, excessive intake is not advised.
Comparison Table: Lemon Myrtle Leaves vs. Essential Oil
| Feature | Lemon Myrtle Leaves (Fresh or Dried) | Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Food and drink flavouring (teas, baking, savoury dishes) | Aromatherapy, topical application (diluted), natural cleaning |
| Safety | Generally recognized as safe for consumption in food and tea. | Highly concentrated and toxic if ingested. Must be diluted for external use. |
| Flavour/Scent | Intense, sweet, clean citrus flavour. | Very potent, concentrated lemon aroma. |
| Storage | Store dried leaves in an airtight container away from light and heat. | Store in a cool, dark place in an airtight, dark glass bottle. |
| Potency | Offers a mild to strong flavour depending on quantity used. | Extremely concentrated; a few drops suffice. |
How to Prepare and Use Lemon Myrtle
Choosing and Storing
For cooking, you can purchase dried, milled lemon myrtle, or, if you have access, use fresh leaves. When using dried, remember that the flavour is concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Store dried leaves in an airtight container to preserve their aroma. When using fresh, bruise the leaves to release the fragrant oils.
Recipe Ideas
- Lemon Myrtle Tea: For a quick, soothing brew, steep 1-2 dried leaves or a small pinch of ground leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired.
- Lemon Myrtle Cookies: Substitute lemon myrtle powder for lemon zest in your favourite shortbread or biscuit recipe for a unique flavour.
- Infused Oil: Infuse olive oil with fresh lemon myrtle leaves to create a citrus-infused oil for salads, fish, or bread.
- Chicken Rub: Combine ground lemon myrtle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a simple yet delicious rub for roasted or grilled chicken.
Conclusion
Yes, eating lemon myrtle leaves in culinary applications is a safe and delicious way to enjoy this potent native Australian herb. It provides a distinctive, strong citrus flavour and a host of potential health benefits, from antioxidant and antimicrobial properties to immune and digestive support. However, always use the leaves for cooking and consumption, never the highly concentrated essential oil, and consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or breastfeeding. By following these simple guidelines, you can safely explore the vibrant flavour of lemon myrtle in your kitchen. If you're interested in sourcing high-quality lemon myrtle, local specialty suppliers often provide the best options, such as those listed by the South Australian Native Foods Association.
