Citronella (Cymbopogon Nardus)

Citronella Essential Oil
Extracted from the Cymbopogon plant, citronella essential oil is renowned for its refreshing scent and powerful natural properties that support health, home care, and personal well-being.

Benefits

• Insect Repellent: Effectively wards off mosquitoes, flies, and other insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor and indoor use.
• Antibacterial Properties: Contains compounds that help fight bacteria, supporting a cleaner, healthier environment.
• Antifungal Effects: Aids in preventing and treating fungal infections, such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
• Mood Enhancement: Its bright and invigorating aroma promotes energy, reduces fatigue, and uplifts the spirit.
• Deodorizer: Neutralizes unpleasant odors in the home, leaving a fresh, citrus-like scent.
• Skin Soothing: Can alleviate itching and redness from bug bites when properly diluted.

How to Use

• Aromatherapy Diffusion: Add 4–6 drops to a diffuser to refresh your space, repel insects, and enhance mood.
• Topical Application: Dilute with a carrier oil (e.g., almond or coconut oil) and apply to exposed skin to repel insects or soothe muscle aches.
• Bath Soak: Mix a few drops with Epsom salts and add to warm bathwater to relax muscles and relieve stress.
• Natural Room Spray: Combine a few drops with water and witch hazel in a spray bottle for an all-natural insect repellent and air freshener.
• Outdoor Protection: Blend with a carrier oil and apply to wrists, ankles, or neck to keep insects at bay during outdoor activities.

Safety Precautions

• Skin Sensitivity: Always dilute before topical application to avoid irritation; a safe dilution ratio is 1–2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil.
• Avoid Ingestion: Citronella oil is not safe for internal use and can be toxic if swallowed.
• Pregnancy and Children: Not recommended for use during pregnancy or with children under 2 years old. Consult a healthcare professional for older children.
• Patch Test: Test a small diluted amount on the skin before using extensively to rule out allergies or sensitivity.
• Pet Safety: Use caution when diffusing around pets, as some animals may be sensitive to citronella.

Additional Insights

• Natural Cleaning Agent: Citronella oil can be added to homemade cleaning products to enhance antibacterial properties and leave a refreshing scent.
• Stress Relief: Its calming yet invigorating aroma can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
• Hair and Scalp Care: May help manage oily scalps and provide relief from dandruff when mixed with shampoo or conditioner.
• Camping Essential: Its effectiveness as an insect repellent makes it an ideal companion for outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

Citronella essential oil is a versatile addition to your essential oil collection, offering natural solutions for insect control, home care, and personal wellness.