Color
Clear
Aroma Family
Citrus, Herbal, Musky
CITRONELLA
Description
Citronella essential oil is derived from two main varieties of tropical perennial evergreen grasses: Ceylon citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) and Java citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus). Ceylon citronella, cultivated in India and Sri Lanka, features long, thin, bright green leaves arranged in clumps and creamy-white flowers. The plant typically reaches a height of 5-8 feet (1.5–2.4 m), with its essential oil extracted through steam distillation of the leaves. In contrast, Java citronella, grown in Java (Indonesia), has broader, green leaves and grows up to 8 feet (2.4 m) tall. Its essential oil is also steam-distilled from the leaves and is often considered more potent than the Ceylon variety. Both types of citronella oil are valued for their fresh, citrusy aroma and are commonly used in aromatherapy and natural insect repellents. They are renowned for their ability to refresh and uplift the mood while providing effective protection against pests.
Botanical Name
Cymbopogon nardus, Cymbopogon winterianus
Common Names
Mana Grass, Winter's Grass, Citronella Java
Directions For Use
Diffusion: Add 4 drops to the diffuser.
Topical Use: Mix 2 drops of essential oil with 10 drops of carrier oil and apply to the skin.
Oil Applications
Citronella oil can be used topically to create a mild, anti-bacterial body spray that can mask or get rid of body odors. In addition, it shields the complexion from sun damage and encourages the appearance of a younger, smoother complexion. It smooths out knots in hair while getting rid of extra oil, dandruff, fungus, and infections.
In aromatherapy, it aids concentration and promotes clear thought. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and expectorant properties, citronella oil can alleviate respiratory discomforts such as congestion, mucus production, and bronchitis symptoms.
Main Constituents
Citronellal, Geraniol, (-)-Citronellol, (-)-Limonene, (E)-Methyl Isoeugenol, Champhene, Citronellyl Acetate
Properties
Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Spasmodic, Antidepressant, Antiseptic, Deodorant, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Febrifuge, Repellent, Stimulant, Stomachic, Tonic, Vermifuge
Blends Well With
Basil, Bergamot, Catnip, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clove, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Juniper Berry, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lime, Litsea Cubeba, Melissa, Mimosa, Myrtle, Neroli, Orange, Oregano, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint, Petitgrain, Pine, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Spearmint, Spruce, Tangerine, Tea Tree, Vetiver, Yarrow, Ylang Ylang
Aromatic Profile
Sweet, Floral, Rosy, Lemon-Like
Safety Considerations
Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Estrogenic, should not be used in endometriosis and estrogen-sensitive cancers.
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