Citronella

Species name: Citronella essential oil is extracted from Cymbopogon nardus (also known as Andropogon nardus) and is a part of the family Graminae (Poaceae).

Also known as: Citronella essential oil is additionally known as Sri Lanka or Lenabatu citronella.

Citronella essential oil has long been recognized as an insect repellent particularly effective against mosquitoes that carry malaria, but it is also great for freshening air and softening skin. 

It also helps stops excessively oily skin. Citronella oil has a pleasant, light citrus-like scent.

The essential oil is actually extracted from a of type grass found Sri Lanka and Java.

Citronella oil is a popular ingredient in candles, is most popular as an insect repellent, but is also a common ingredient in perfume, lotion, soap, and deodorant.

Home Remedies using Citronella Essential Oil

Benefits of Citronella Essential Oil

The benefits of citronella oil are insecticide properties, antiseptic, antibacterial, and as a deodorant.

Citronella oil's most useful quality; and by reputation, as an insect repellent is well deserved. It can be used effectively in a spray, in an oil diffuser or simply applied to cotton balls and placed in closets or cupboards. 

Citronella is also good to get rid of fleas and ticks on pets, but is a welcomed deodorizer as well. It can also be incorporated into pet grooming routines to repel mites, ticks, and fleas. 

Citronella oil is not only of benefit in its use as an insecticide, but its antiseptic properties make it great to use for cleaning out sickrooms, and has been used as a fever reducer.

Citronella oil has a tonic effect on the body. It is helpful in dealing with colds, flu and minor infections as well as having good deodorizing qualities.

Citronella oil is also sometimes used to combat excessive sweating, and useful for combating oily skin, and fighting intestinal parasites.

Side Effects of Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella oil may irritate sensitive skin and cause dermatitis in certain individuals.