Citral

PhytochemicalTerpene

What is it

Citral is a mixture of two isomeric monoterpene aldehydes (geranial and neral) responsible for the characteristic lemon scent of lemongrass, lemon myrtle, and lemon peel. It is widely used as a flavor and fragrance ingredient.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Flavor / fragrance

Limited Evidence

Used widely for sensory properties. Direct clinical health benefits are not well established.

How it works

Citral contributes lemon flavor and aroma. In vitro studies report antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activity, with effects on bacterial membranes and fungal cell walls. Citral has also shown effects on TRPV3 channels relevant to thermal sensation. For cosmetic and supplement use, citral is included at trace amounts as a natural flavor or fragrance.

Dosage

There is no RDA. Used at very low concentrations as a flavor or fragrance. DSLD does not provide a median dose for this entry.

When and how to take it

Not separately timed; follows the timing of the parent product.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Citral (terpene aldehyde mixture)

Component of lemongrass, lemon myrtle, lemon balm, and lemon peel oils.

Lipophilic; absorbed orally and topically.

Safety

GRAS at typical food flavor levels. Concentrated citral can be a skin irritant and sensitizer. People with citrus allergies may rarely react.

Who should be cautious

Avoid concentrated topical or oral exposure in known citrus or fragrance allergies. Pregnancy/breastfeeding: dietary and aromatherapy doses are fine.

Interactions

No significant interactions reported at typical food doses.

Food sources

Lemongrass, lemon peel, lemon balm

Amount
trace
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is citral the same as lemon juice?⌄

No. Citral is the main aroma compound; lemon juice also contains acids, vitamin C, and other components.

Is it safe?⌄

Yes at food/fragrance levels. Concentrated topical exposure can irritate skin in some people.

References

Citral on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Citral (ChEBI:23316) — ChEBI link

Citral (PubChem CID 8843) — PubChem link

Citral on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Citral (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Citral with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.