Scientific name: Citrus limon
Family: Rutaceae
Extraction part: Peel
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Note: Top note
Main components: Limonene, β-pinene, γ-terpinene, citral (neral/geranial), etc.
Place of origin: Western Japan (including Setouchi region), Japan
Component composition may vary by lot.
Overview
Lemon essential oil handled by JapanAroma is produced by steam distillation from the peel of Japanese-grown lemons. In Japan, lemon is widely recognized as a culinary accent—often squeezed over fried foods such as karaage or seafood to cut through oil and bring a clean finish. This “balancing” role is closely aligned with the aromatic profile of steam-distilled lemon, which offers freshness without excessive sharpness. Many Japanese lemons are cultivated in western regions of the country, where mild climates and long sunlight hours support aromatic peel development. Shorter distances between harvest and processing also help preserve freshness in the resulting oil.
Aroma Characteristics
Steam-distilled lemon essential oil presents a bright citrus freshness with a softer, more rounded character than cold-pressed lemon oil. The opening is clean and lively, followed by a gentle, transparent citrus body that integrates smoothly into blends. Rather than dominating a composition, it works effectively as a harmonizing top note—lifting the overall profile while keeping the impression crisp and refined.
Traditional Use and Background
In Japanese daily life, lemon is commonly used to refine and refresh flavors rather than to overwhelm them. A familiar practice is adding lemon to fried dishes to reduce heaviness and enhance clarity. Lemon is also widely used with grilled fish, simply paired with salt, and as a key flavor in lemon-based drinks such as lemon sours. Across these uses, lemon functions as an element that sharpens, cleanses, and brings balance to food, reflecting a cultural preference for restraint and harmony rather than intensity.
Production and Supply
The lemon essential oil handled by JapanAroma is sourced from Japanese lemons, with cultivation concentrated mainly in western Japan. Production volume may vary depending on harvest conditions and peel availability. Availability is discussed based on intended use, quantity requirements, and production schedules.
Quality and Compliance
GC/MS analysis and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are available. As this oil is produced by steam distillation, it does not contain furocoumarins, and therefore does not present phototoxicity concerns associated with some cold-pressed citrus oils. Quality is managed on a lot-by-lot basis, and additional technical information can be provided upon request.
Applications
Lemon essential oil is used in fine fragrance, aromatherapy, personal care formulations, and home fragrance applications. Its clean and balanced citrus profile makes it particularly suitable for products designed to convey freshness, clarity, and a light, uplifting impression—especially where phototoxicity-free citrus is preferred.
Availability and Inquiry
For sample requests or purchasing inquiries regarding this essential oil, please contact us via the Contact page. We may also be able to arrange Japanese essential oils not listed in our current lineup.