Lemon myrtle has a rich history, being used for thousands of years here in Australia. But as our world continues to expand, so too does its significance. Today, lemon myrtle is not only an incredible icon of Australia, but a global phenomenon in countless industries and cultures. How cool!
Before we get into the significance of lemon myrtle across culture, we first want to acknowledge its history and introduction into the international world:
- First Nations Australia
Before you could buy our lemon myrtle products, the first nations people of northern NSW and Queensland were using lemon myrtle for thousands of years. Thanks to lemon myrtles' healing properties, which you can read about by clicking here, and it's delicious taste, First Nations Australians had lemon myrtle as a staple for their cooking and medicine.
- British Recognition
In 1853, lemon myrtle was scientifically recognised as Backhousia citriodora by botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, who named the plant after his friend and fellow botanist, James Backhouse.
- Commercialisation
Reportedly, the first commercial use of lemon myrtle was during World War II, when the Pacific came into a lemon flavouring shortage. To combat this, Tarax, an old Australian soft drink company, used lemon myrtle to flavour the drinks instead.
- International Fame
Lemon myrtle didn’t gain true international fame until Jamie Oliver, a British chef, used it in one of his recipes during a television show in the early 2000s.
Since, lemon myrtle has been researched extensively and become a kitchen staple for many.
For a more detailed history on lemon myrtle, click here.

Now that we know how lemon myrtle became popular, let's explore the impact it had on different cultures.
1. First Nations Australian Cultures
This first one should be no surprise. Just as numerous Aboriginal groups used lemon myrtle thousands of years ago, it still has key uses in day-to-day life today.
Most notably, First Nations Australians use the leaves for medicinal purposes, to treat colds, coughs, and digestive issues. The leaves are also still incorporated into traditional cooking to impart flavour and fragrance to food.
2. Australian National Culture
While First Nations peoples were the first to use lemon myrtle, it has become a symbol of Australian native flora, and is something all Australians are proud of.
In modern Australian cuisine, lemon myrtle is increasingly popular as a native herb, used in everything from gourmet cooking to cosmetics and essential oils. Plus, it’s considered a quintessential part of Australia’s identity in the realm of native bush foods!
Hint: Click here to see some of the lemon myrtle recipes Australians are loving.
3. New Zealand Māori Culture
Although lemon myrtle is native to Australia, the plant has gained attention in New Zealand as part of the broader interest in native Australian and New Zealand flora.
Māori, who have a rich tradition of using plants for medicinal, culinary, and spiritual purposes, may integrate lemon myrtle into their practices as part of an expanded understanding of first nations plant-based resources. So while not traditional to Māori culture, the growing interest in bush foods from Australia has led to its incorporation, and we are excited to see how New Zealand continues to adopt lemon myrtle and other Australian bush foods.

4. Spirituality
The spiritual nature of lemon myrtle ties back to First Nations Australian culture and the Dreamtime but is increasingly popular today on a global level. Not only healing, lemon myrtle is known to have spiritual properties, including being said to help uplift the spirit, restore peace of mind, and create a calming effect. Similarly, lemon myrtle can help alleviate fatigue and other negative mental states, and promote emotional and mental renewal.
These benefits are especially prominent in aromatherapy, a practice sometimes used to deepen spiritual connections and enhance meditation practices. To learn more about lemon myrtle and aromatherapy, click here.
5. Modern Herbalism (Global)
As herbalism and natural medicine gain popularity globally, lemon myrtle is increasingly recognised for its medicinal properties, such as its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. As mentioned above, it's used as an essential oil, along with other essential oils in blends, as well as in dietary supplements and teas worldwide. You can read all about the benefits of drinking lemon myrtle tea here or check out lemon myrtle tea products here.
People in various countries, particularly those in Europe and North America, view lemon myrtle as a valuable herb in alternative medicine. How cool that so many are learning about its natural benefits?!
6. Culinary and Eco-Culture Enthusiasts
As hinted throughout this blog, lemon myrtle is increasingly used by chefs and culinary innovators worldwide. Especially loved by enthusiasts of "bush foods" and sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, lemon myrtle is viewed as a sustainable, versatile ingredient for flavouring dishes, beverages, and desserts. Its role in eco-friendly cooking and culture, especially in Australia, is growing, with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture and the preservation of native plants.

No matter where you come from, or why you love lemon myrtle, it's so special to see the plant we love become recognised by so many. Here’s to the lemon myrtle community growing!
A great place to start, if you're new to using lemon myrtle, is with one of our ready-made products like the 100% Pure Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil or our soothing Lemon Myrtle Moisturiser. Those who love a hands-on approach can create their own unique blends using our essential oil and lemon myrtle leaf. Explore the versatile world of lemon myrtle and find out about all our offerings by visiting our website here.
Explore more intriguing stories and insights in our blog, or browse our range of products to incorporate lemon myrtle into your daily life.