Lemon Myrtle makes the best lemon “tea” we’ve ever tasted. While not a true tea (from Camellia sinensis), it’s a caffeine-free botanical, or tisane. Lemon myrtle tastes bright and fragrant. You’ve probably tasted many lemony herbal teas: there’s lemon balm, lemongrass, lemon mint, lemon verbena… But lemon myrtle conveys the clean zing of citrus better than the rest. The leaves also have a higher concentration of citral—the chemical compound responsible for the lemon flavor and aroma—than any other herb.

In addition to tasting great, lemon myrtle makes a healthy brew. The high levels of citral give it powerful antibiotic, antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. The brewed tea also contains high levels of antioxidants and Vitamin C. If you drink tea for the health benefits, then put lemon myrtle on your list of essentials.

Lemon myrtle belongs to the Eucalyptus family, and is endemic to Australia. Generations have used this plant to boost immunity, ward off sickness, reduce bacterial infections topically, AND (did I say this already?) it tastes delicious! Australians also use it as a culinary herb: try a pinch in your stir fry. Or do what we do: add some to your favorite tea blend.

Next time you crave an uplifting herbal tea, try lemon myrtle. Sip and savor this aromatic brew from Down Under!