Citronella Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon winterianus
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Fresh, part-dried grass
Note Classification: Top
Aroma: Fresh, lemony, woody-sweet fragrance
Largest Producing Countries: Vietnam and Java
Traditional Use: Extensively used in soaps, detergents, household goods and industrial perfumes. Employed in insect repellent formulations against moths, ants, fleas, for use in the home and in the garden.
Properties: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, deodorant, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, fungicidal, insecticide, stomachic, tonic, and vermifuge.
Benefits: Colds, excessive perspiration, fatigue, flu, hair oil, headaches, heart stimulant, insect repellant, migraine, minor infections, neuralgia, and oily skin.
Blends Well With: Bergamot, cedarwood, geranium, lemon, orange, and pine.
Of Interest: Mixed with cedarwood Virginia oil, it has been a popular remedy against mosquito attacks for many years since before the appearance of DDT and other modern insecticides.
Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant; may cause dermatitis in some individuals. Avoid during pregnancy.