Melaleuca citrina
Melaleuca citrina, commonly known as the Lemon Tea Tree, is a versatile medicinal plant prized for its invigorating citrus aroma. Native to diverse landscapes, its essential oils possess potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. Traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments and skin irritations, it remains a cornerstone of natural aromatherapy.
- Scientific name: Melaleuca citrina
- Family: Not available
- Native range: Europe
Distribution
This plant exhibits a diverse geographical distribution spanning several continents and distinct ecological zones. In Southeastern Europe, its presence is noted within the northwestern Balkan Peninsula. Its range extends significantly into East Tropical Africa, specifically within the countries of Kenya and Tanzania. Furthermore, the species can be found in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around the Comoros. Finally, the plant reaches the Indian Subcontinent, where it is documented in the region of Assam.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southeastern Europe | NW. Balkan Pen. | WCVP |
| East Tropical Africa | Kenya | WCVP |
| East Tropical Africa | Tanzania | WCVP |
| Western Indian Ocean | Comoros | WCVP |
| Indian Subcontinent | Assam | WCVP |
| Indian Subcontinent | India | WCVP |
| Indo-China | Andaman Is. | WCVP |
| Indo-China | Nicobar Is. | WCVP |
| Australia | New South Wales | WCVP |
| Australia | Queensland | WCVP |
Plant Parts
This plant, Melaleuca citrina, possesses various components that contribute to its medicinal profile. The most significant part is the leaves, which are often harvested for their essential oils known for their antiseptic properties. The flowers are typically delicate and provide aesthetic value while supporting local pollinators. Although the seeds are produced to ensure the continuation of the species, they are less commonly used in traditional remedies compared to the foliage. Ultimately, the entire aerial part of the plant is frequently utilized in herbal preparations, as the bioactive compounds are concentrated in the structures above the ground.- Total parts
- 4
- Scientific sources
- 9
| Plant Part | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| leaves | 5 | ★★★☆☆ |
| flowers | 2 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| seeds | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| aerial part | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Activities
Melaleuca citrina has 7 reported activities identified across 9 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Antioxidant, Antiinflammatory, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Free-Radical Scavenging.
- Total activities
- 7
- Scientific sources
- 9
Most Reported Activities
| Activity | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Antioxidant | 3 | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Antiinflammatory | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Antimicrobial | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Cytotoxic | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Free-Radical Scavenging | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Insecticide | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Thrombolytic | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Melaleuca citrina has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include cancer.
- Total uses
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| cancer | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |