Essential Oil – Citronella
All About Aromatherapy Oil Citronella
Citronella
Citronella Essential Oil (Botanical name: Cymbopogon nardus)
Citronella oil is obtained from the leaves and stems of the plant, Cymbopogon.
It is extracted from an aromatic grass by steam distillation. The main producers of citronella are Indonesia and China. Citronella is also produced in South Africa, Brazil, Taiwan, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, Jamaica, Ecuador, Argentina, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras.
Properties of Citronella Oil
- It is colorless, has a thin consistency, top note aroma.
- It has a fresh, slightly fruity, sweet lemony fragrance like lemongrass.
- Antidepressant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, deodorant, emmenagogue, insecticide
Uses of Citronella Oil
- Citronella is uplifting and effective against fatigue, headache, migraine, colds, flu, minor infections and mild depression.
- Useful during excessive perspiration and oily skin
- It is widely used in perfumed products, soaps, cosmetic, flavoring industries, disinfectants and air fresheners. Citronella spray works as an insect repellant against flying insects and are used to drive away mosquitoes. Cats particularly do not like citronella aroma.
Ways to Use Citronella Oil
Essence Burners: clear unpleasant smell around the house
Massage Oils (in very low dosage)
Products containing citronela such as Citronella perfumes, Citronella soaps, Citronella candles
Citronella Oil Caution:
Avoid direct contact with this oil as it can cause skin irritation and dermatitis. Do not use this oil during pregnancy. It is important to opt for natural citronella and its derivatives – synthetic chemicals derived from turpentine have eroded the market today.
Disclaimer: Always consult a qualified aromatherapist before you think of taking any oil internally. Always dilute essential oil and other concentrated aromatherapy oils on the skin. Do not apply them at full strength without verifying with an expert aromatherapy practitioner. Never use any oil without conducting a skin patch test for oil sensitivity or possible allergic reactions. Always seek guidance and verify safety before using any essential oil from a trained expert, regardless of what any website or book recommends
