Citral (CAS 5392-40-5), a captivating acyclic monoterpene aldehyde, is not just a synthesized chemical but also a compound found abundantly in nature. Its distinctive lemon fragrance originates from numerous plants, making it a sought-after ingredient derived from both natural extraction and chemical synthesis. Understanding its natural sources and inherent chemical properties provides valuable insight into its diverse applications.

The most notable natural source of Citral is the oil derived from various species of Cymbopogon, commonly known as lemongrass. Other plants rich in Citral include lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora), lemon verbena, and litsea cubeba. Lemon myrtle, in particular, is renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of Citral, often exceeding 90% in its essential oil, making it a premium source for extraction. These natural sources provide Citral not only for its aroma and flavor but also as a component in traditional remedies and aromatherapy.

Chemically, Citral is characterized by its molecular formula C10H16O and a molar mass of approximately 152.23 g/mol. It exists as two geometric isomers: geranial (also called citral A or trans-citral) and neral (citral B or cis-citral). These isomers differ in the configuration around the double bond closest to the aldehyde group. While both share the characteristic lemon scent, geranial tends to be sharper, and neral sweeter. The ratio of these isomers can vary depending on the plant source and extraction method, influencing the final aroma profile.

The physical properties of Citral include its appearance as a pale yellow liquid with a relatively high boiling point of around 229°C. Its flash point is approximately 91°C, indicating it is combustible. Due to its unsaturated nature and aldehyde group, Citral can undergo various chemical reactions, including oxidation, reduction, and isomerization, which are important considerations for its synthesis and storage. For those looking to buy Citral, understanding these properties is key to its effective use and preservation.