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Natural preservatives are usually found in the form of acids, and essential oils (blood) of plants. These forms of preservatives work by releasing antioxidants into formulations and/or by binding to the chemical compounds or minerals within formulations to slow down the rancidity. Although a preservative can be found in natural or organic sources does not mean that the preservative can be any less safe or effective than man-made chemical preservatives. Let's read on:

Citric Acid/Sodium Citrate - Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in citrus fruits. It is a natural preservative and is also used to add an acidic (sour) taste to foods and soft drinks. In biochemistry, it is important as an intermediate in the citric acid cycle and therefore occurs in the metabolism of almost all living things. It also serves as an environmentally benign cleaning agent and acts as an antioxidant. Citric acid exists in a variety of fruits and vegetables, but it is most concentrated in lemons and limes, where it can comprise as much as 8 percent of the dry weight of the fruit. Citric acid is most commonly used in formulations to as an antioxidant or chelating agent. (Source)