Citronella Oil

Cymbopogon winterianus
 
Citronella is a tall grass grown in Asia with a crisp, fresh aroma. It is soothing to the skin and creates an uplifting atmosphere. Citronella essential oil is a known powerful insect repellent and an ideal companion during outdoor activities.
 
Description
From the leaf of a tall grass native to Asia, Citronella essential oil has a crisp, fresh aroma. With powerful pest repellent benefits, Citronella oil keeps creepy-crawlers out of the house and off your skin and clothing. It is an ideal companion for camping, hiking, and trips to the great outdoors. The oil works by masking the human fragrances that insects find appealing. Oil components include citronellal and geraniol, which are good for cleaning surfaces in and outside the home. When inhaled, Citronella promotes happy, positive feelings. Applied topically, it can be soothing to the skin and scalp.
 
Uses
Diffuse to ward off insects, especially mosquitoes.
Combine with carrier oil and rub onto skin as a topical insect repellent.
Mix with water in a spray bottle and spritz onto surfaces as a natural surface cleanser.
Diffuse to promote a cheery, optimistic environment.
Use in shampoo and conditioner to boost cleansing while adding shine.
Directions For Use
Aromatic use: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area.
Cautions
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.
Primary Benefits
Repels pests naturally
Cleans surfaces
Provides an uplifting and stress-reducing aroma
Soothes skin and scalp
Aromatic Description
Sweet, floral, citrusy
Collection Method
Steam distillation
Plant Part
Leaf
Main Constituents
Citronellal, geraniol
Bothered by bugs? Irritated by insects? Put off by pests? Wish you could repel them with something that is safe and natural? Citronella is the oil for you.
Usage Tips:
For a DIY essential oil insect repellent, put several drops of Citronella in a spray bottle with Fractionated Coconut Oil and your choice of Cedarwood, Arborvitae, Lemongrass, Spearmint, or Peppermint essential oils.
Diffuse or apply topically to ward off mosquitoes.
Add a few drops to water to clean surfaces.
Put a drop in your shampoo or conditioner for a bright scent and cleansing boost.
What Is Citronella Oil Used For?
Citronella is known for its ability to repel insects naturally. This is one of its most common and most powerful uses. It can also be used for cleaning due to its chemical constituents of citronellal and geraniol
How to Use Citronella
You can use Citronella as a natural insect repellent in a variety of ways. Diffusing Citronella is a great way to ward off insects, especially during an outdoor BBQ or summer party.
Applying Citronella topically is another way to use it as a natural repellent. If you are using it topically, be sure to dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil or another carrier oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. A carrier oil like Fractionated Coconut Oil also helps the scent of Citronella to stay on your skin longer, making it more effective as a repellent. Apply to the wrists, neck, ankles, or other desired areas.
What Does Citronella Oil Smell Like?
Citronella essential oil has a powerful, bright aroma. Although it is not a citrus oil—Citronella is a tall grass native to Asia—it does have a fresh, lemony tone to its scent.