Compound Monograph
Neral
Neral is the cis-isomer of citral, an aldehyde monoterpene responsible for much of the lemon scent of plants such as lemon balm.
Classification
Neral is a monoterpene aldehyde, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.
Where Does It Come From? (4)
Neral is a naturally occurring monoterpene aldehyde, found in Lemon balm, Lemongrass, Lemon and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Neral is one of the two geometric isomers that together make up citral, the other being geranial. It is a monoterpene aldehyde with a fresh, lemon-like odour and occurs widely in citrus-scented plants, including lemon balm, lemongrass and citrus peel oils. It is valued chiefly as a flavour and fragrance ingredient and contributes to the characteristic aroma of these essential oils.
Toxicity & Safety
As a common food and fragrance constituent, neral is generally regarded as low in toxicity at the levels encountered in foods and essential oils. Like other reactive aldehydes, concentrated citral can be a skin irritant or sensitiser in some people, so undiluted essential oils are best handled with care.