Citronella Oil

citronella essential oil is obtained from the cymbopogon genus plant family. more precisely, it is extracted through steam distillation of the grasses cymbopogon nardus (jowitt) and cymbopogon winterianus (rendal). this results in two types of citronella oil.

citronella java, which is distilled from c. winterianus. it also has a fresh lemon-like scent but is darker in color. between the two, java citronella is considered the one with the higher quality.

it is one of the most widely used oils in aromatherapy that comes with a wide range of health, skin and hair benefits. lemongrass is also referred as ‘gandhatrina’ in hindi, ‘nimma gadi’ in telugu, ‘elumichai pul’ in tamil, and nimbe hullu in kannada.

citronella oil is a colourless or light yellow liquid with a characteristic woody, grassy or lemony odour. it is flammable and if the vapours are inhaled, this could cause an initial stimulation followed by depression of the central nervous system.

citronella oil may be harmful if ingested in quantity and may irritate the skin and eye. however, it is not believed to be hazardous to humans, including children and those with sensitive skin, if used according to label instructions. citronella oil has been widely used since the 1950s without any adverse effects which may cause concern.

citronella oil has minimal or no risk to wildlife and environment due to its toxic levels being low and its use being limited. therefore, it can be used around the home with no expected adverse effects.

the fumes of citronella oil are said to be potentially toxic to birds; however, this is because it is often used in conjunction with other essential oils in air fresheners – therefore, the potential to cause toxicity.

• used in aromatherapy
• skin and hair benefits
• insect repellent
• digestive issues
• anxiety
• respiratory infections
• acne
• eczema
• headaches
• deodorizes surfaces
• excessive perspiration