FAMILY: Lauraceae
SYNONYMS: L. citrata, ‘may chang’, exotic verbena, tropical verbena.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A small tropical tree with fragrant, lemongrass-scented leaves and flowers. The small fruits are shaped like peppers, from which the name ‘cubeba’ derives.
DISTRIBUTION: Native to east Asia, especially China; cultivated in Taiwan and japan. China is the main producer of the oil, much of which is used by the Chinese themselves.
OTHER SPECIES: Despite its folk names, this plant is not related to lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla). It belongs to the same family as the laurel tree, rosewood and cinnamon.
HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: It is planted as a wind breaker in China.
ACTIONS: Antiseptic, deodorant, digestive, disinfectant, insecticidal, stimulant, stomachic.
EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the fruits.
CHARACTERISTICS: A pale yellow mobile liquid with an intense, lemony, fresh-fruity odour (sweeter than lemongrass but less tenacious).
PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Mainly citral (up to 85 per cent).
SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant, possible sensitization in some individuals.
AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE
Skin care: Acne, dermatitis, excessive perspiration, greasy skin, insect repellent, spots.
Digestive system: Flatulence, indigestion.
Immune system: Epidemics, sanitation.
OTHER USES: Extensively used as a fragrance component in air fresheners, soaps, deodorants, colognes, toiletries and perfumes. Employed in flavouring work, especially fruit products. It serves as a source of natural ‘citral’ all over the world.
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