Citral is an aromatic chemical, usually appearing as a pale yellow liquid with a lemon odour. It has two isomers (molecules with identical formulas but distinct structures) known as Geranial (Citral A) and Neral (Citral B), which are naturally present in the essential oils of many plants, including lemon, lime, may chang, ginger and lemongrass. Citral is used as a component of many fragrances and food flavourings for its tart-citrus notes. It also has some pheromonal effects in insects, and can be used by beekeepers to attract foraging honey bees to a particular location.

Citral is naturally present as a component of many of the essential oils we use as fragrances for our products. Although this molecule is found in nature, it can still have a negative effect on some people who may be sensitive to it on their skin. We list this ingredient on our packaging to help people who have a sensitivity easily identify it.

Other names: C₁₀H₁₆O, Geranialdehyde, 3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-Octadienal, Lemonal, 3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienal

Stereoisomers: Geranial, Neral