Citronella Oil

Aroma: Sharp, fresh, citrusy and sweet

Latin name: Cymbopogan nardus    Origin: Sri Lanka    Properties: Powerful, uplifting and refreshing

Citronella oil is golden in colour. The oil is obtained by distillation from the tall aromatic Java Citronella Grasses (Pictured below). The two grasses are classified as Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus. The oil belongs to the 'citrus' family. Like any essential oil, citronella oil should not be applied to the skin undiluted. Always dilute before aromatherapy use with a good quality carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil.

Citronella is excellent for relieving nervous fatigue and can ease the pressure of headaches and migraines. The oil has a powerful scent with a sharp grassy edge like its relatives palmarosa and lemongrass, and some may prefer to use it in small amounts. Citronella is also well known for its excellent insect repellent properties. Citronella oil can also be used in a room burner, or a little added to a foot bath can promote healthy feet, but avoid during pregnancy.

Citronella oil combines well with: basil, bergamot, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lemon, orange, rosemary, pine and tea tree.

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 Revised: 6th June 2010.