Litsea Cubeba Worst Fragrance Synthetic and Natural No known benefits Litsea Cubeba at a glance Plant that produces volatile, fragrant oils Contains skin-sensitizing compounds, like citral, limonene and linalool Antioxidant with potential anti-microbial properties May cause skin redness, dryness and irritation Litsea Cubeba description _Litsea cubeba_, also known as litsea or may chang, is a plant native to Southeastern Asia used in cosmetics primarily as a perfuming agent due to the fragrant volatile oils that parts of this plant can produce. _Litsea cubeba_’s oils smell of citrus due to the high amount of citral, a chemical known as a monoterpene that’s naturally present in its essential oils. Research has continuously demonstrated that citral sensitizes skin and can prompt redness, itchiness, flaking and dryness. Although studies also suggest citral can have antimicrobial properties, there are many other ingredients that have similar benefits without wreaking havoc on skin. The essential oils taken from the fruit and leaves of this plant also contain other volatile aromatic compounds including limonene and linalool, which also cause irritation to skin when exposed to air. As a raw material, these oils appear clear-to-yellow in color. Data on average concentration percentages used in cosmetics is limited. _Litsea cubeba_ essential oils also have applications in the food industry. Related ingredients: Lemongrass Oil Litsea Cubeba Fruit Extract