Please check your internet connection and try again.
# Citral (Lemongrass Oil)
## Overview
Citral is a mixture of two acyclic monoterpene geometric isomers, geranial (trans-isomer) and neral (cis-isomer). It is a natural component of many essential oils, including lemongrass, lemon, and orange. It is primarily used in dietary supplements and as a flavoring agent. There is limited high-quality clinical evidence supporting its use for specific medical conditions.
## Primary Indications
* **Dietary Supplement:** Used for general well-being.
* **Flavoring Agent:** Added to foods and beverages.
* **Limited Traditional Use:** Historically used for digestive complaints, but lacks robust clinical trial support.
## Adult Dosing
Dosing is highly variable and depends on the product formulation and intended use (e.g., dietary supplement, flavoring). There are no standardized or FDA-approved dosing regimens for citral. Common supplemental doses range from **100 mg to 500 mg per day**, often divided into multiple doses.
## Pediatric Dosing
There is insufficient data to recommend specific pediatric dosing. Use in children should be avoided unless under strict medical supervision and only with formulations specifically intended and labeled for pediatric use, with clear dosing instructions.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are established for renal or hepatic impairment due to lack of clinical data and its typical use as a dietary supplement.
## Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to citral or components of lemon-scented plants.
* Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Safety has not been established.
## Adverse Effects
Generally considered safe when used as a flavoring agent in food. When used in higher doses as a dietary supplement, potential adverse effects may include:
* Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)
* Skin irritation or allergic reactions (topical use)
* Photosensitivity (topical use)
## Key Drug Interactions
* **CYP Enzyme Metabolism:** Citral may inhibit or induce certain cytochrome P450 enzymes, though the clinical significance is unclear. Caution may be warranted with drugs that have a narrow therapeutic index and are significantly metabolized by CYP enzymes.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions.
* For topical use, monitor for skin irritation.
## Clinical Pearls
* Citral is primarily available as a dietary supplement and lacks extensive clinical trial data for efficacy in treating specific medical conditions.
* The quality and concentration of citral can vary significantly between products.
* Advise patients that it is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
***
**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and conduct a thorough patient assessment before making any clinical decisions.
