BOTANICAL / INCI NAME
Cymbopgon nardus
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam distillation of dried or fresh leaves
SUGGESTED USE & BENEFITS
Citronella essential oil is extracted from the hardy citronella grass, a perennial native to Sri Lanka and Java.
The most prominent natural chemicals in citronella oil – citronellal, citronellol and geraniol – give it a fresh, stimulating aroma, ideal for scenting soaps, skin lotions, deodorants and wax candles.
The citronellal, citronellol and geraniol also give citronella its highly-valued insect-repelling qualities. Blended with cedarwood oil and used in a spray or burner, citronella is effective at keeping midges and mosquitos at bay. This same blend can be used to refresh and deodorise a room. Its deodorising properties can also be used to combat excessive perspiration and refresh tired and sweaty feet.
Other effective uses for its insect-repelling qualities are: protecting clothes from moths by adding drops of citronella to a cotton-wool ball and placing them in wardrobes and drawers; protecting pet dogs from fleas by adding drops to the inside of an absorbent dog collar (or cotton bandana). Do not use this method for cats, as felines are much more sensitive to this scent.
For soothing digestive discomfort, mix two drops with two tablespoons of a carrier oil and massage into the abdominal area. Its soothing properties can also be applied for headaches and migraines: add two or three drops to a hot or cold compress
- Antidepressant
- Antiseptic
- Antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Bactericidal
- Fungicidal
- Insecticide
- Tonic
- Stimulant
- Balancing for oily skin
- Deodorising
- Vermifuge (kills intestinal parasites)
Blends well with
Bergamot, cedarwood, lemon, orange, lavender and pine.
PRECAUTIONS
Citronella oil should be avoided during pregnancy