Citronella oil is used in small amounts to flavor foods, scent cosmetics, and repel insects. It has been used in aromatic tea as a vermifuge, diuretic, and antispasmodic, although no clinical trials have been performed.
What do you need to know about citronella essential oil?
Primary Benefits
- May help promote clean skin
- Soothing to both skin and scalp
- Makes an ideal companion when camping, hiking or doing anything outdoors
What is Citronella good for?
What can I do with citronella leaves?
- as an insect repellent.
- as an antifungal agent.
- to treat parasitic infections.
- to promote wound healing.
- to lift mood or fight fatigue.
- in perfumes or as a flavor additive in food.
Is it OK to swallow citronella oil?
When taken by mouth: Citronella oil seems to be safe for most people in the small amounts found in foods. But it's LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large amounts. When applied to the skin: Citronella oil is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when applied to the skin as an insect repellent. It might cause skin reactions or irritation in some people.
Does citronella plant really repel mosquitoes?
In certain forms, yes, citronella can repel mosquitoes to some degree. However, Citronella doesn’t repel mosquitoes as effectively as you might think, and it’s definitely not the absolute most effective mosquito repelling plant or essential oil.
What is citronella essential oil good for?
Used in aromatherapy applications, Citronella Essential Oil slows or prevents the growth or spread of harmful airborne bacteria, repels flying insects, uplifts negative moods, and relaxes the body and mind. It is reputed to reduce muscles spasms, ease headaches, and boost energy.
How do you use citronella oil at home?
0:351:47How to Use Citronella Oil - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd insect repelling qualities. Now you can use this oil about burning it in torches like this whenMoreAnd insect repelling qualities. Now you can use this oil about burning it in torches like this when lit the atmosphere they create it's perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining.
Is citronella oil harmful to humans?
When used according to the label, citronella products are not expected to cause harm to humans, pets or the environment. Oil of Citronella is a volatile, liquid oil derived from dried cultivated grasses. It works on insects without harming or killing them.
Can I mix citronella oil with water?
A spray application may be good for freshening up a room or applying to your skin as an insect repellent. To make a citronella oil spray: Add citronella oil to water in a glass spray bottle. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) recommends 10 to 15 drops per ounce of water.
Where do you put citronella?
Place several candles around the area you will be using to ensure coverage of the citronella scent. Citronella candles are suitable for repelling insects and mosquitoes in the home and on porch areas.
Why is citronella banned?
Citing a study that found internal ingestion and intraperitoneal injection of methyl eugenol, a constituent compound found in citronella, to be “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen,” Health Canada took what many consider to be a drastic step to eliminate insect repellents from store shelves nationwide.
What bugs does citronella repel?
You're probably most familiar with citronella candles to repel mosquitoes, but the smell comes from a plant called Cymbopogon nardus, which gives off a distinct beach grass vibe. It's the oil from the plant that's actually the repellent, according to the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC).
Is citronella safe to use indoors?
Also, the citronella candles tend to have a slight more smokey burn than ordinary candles. This is great as another repellent for insects who don't like the smoke, but perhaps not so great for using indoors. So, for cleaner conditions inside, it is best only to use them outdoors.
What is citronella oil?
Citronella oil is made by steam distillation of citronella grass. The two main types are Sri Lanka (Ceylon) citronella oil, and Java citronella oil. Citronella oil is most commonly used as an mosquito repellent. In foods and beverages, citronella oil is used as a flavoring. In manufacturing, citronella oil is used as a fragrance in cosmetics ...
How long does citronella oil repel mosquitoes?
Citronella oil is an ingredient in some mosquito repellents you can buy at the store. Diluted citronella oil seems to prevent mosquito bites for a short amount of time, typically less than 20 minutes.
What is the purpose of the CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION?
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances.
Is it safe to inhale citronella oil?
When inhaled: It's LIKELY UNSAFE to inhale citronella oil. Lung damage has been reported. Special Precautions and Warnings. Children: It's LIKELY UNSAFE to give citronella oil to children by mouth. There are reports of poisoning in children.
Is citronella oil safe to take?
When taken by mouth: Citronella oil seems to be safe for most people in the small amounts found in foods. But it's LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large amounts. When applied to the skin: Citronella oil is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when applied to the skin as an insect repellent.
Can you use citronella oil while pregnant?
Pregnancy and breast -feeding: Not enough is known about the use of citronella oil during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
What is citronella oil used for?
Citronella oil is used to expel worms and parasites from the intestines. ( 9) In vitro research shows that citronella’s geraniol also has strong anti-helminthic activity, which means it effectively expels parasitic worms and other internal parasites by either stunning or killing them without causing any damage to the host. ( 10) This is precisely the reason that citronella is used to prevent both internal and external infections, and why it should play a central role in a parasite cleanse.
What are the benefits of citronella oil?
According to various studies investigating the effects of these compounds, citronella oil has been shown to have the following benefits: Naturally repels insects. Fights free radical damage. Fights bacteria and fungi. Reduces inflammation.
What are the active ingredients in citronella oil?
Of citronella’s active ingredients, the three that are most researched and valued include citronellol, citronellal and geraniol. Both types of citronella oil have widespread uses, including stress reduction, antibacterial or antiseptic action, and skin rejuvenation.
What is the name of the plant that smells like lemongrass?
A citronella plant, also called a mosquito plant, does resemble its relative, the lemongrass plant. The oils derived from these plants also have similar smells, uses and benefits, but they are definitely two completely different plants and oils.
What is citronella in soap?
Natural Perfume or Room Spray. Because it has a clean, fresh scent similar to lemon or lemongrass, citronella is a common ingredient in soaps, candles, incense, perfumes and cosmetics.
What is the most common aromatherapy oil?
Citronella essential oil is one of the most common aromatherapy oils and is part of what gives many household sprays and candles their signature scent. Additionally, it can be used as a food additive for flavor and preservation, so you can sometimes find it in foods and beverages.
Does citronella oil help with parasympathetic nervous system?
Citronella has a citrusy scent that can be both uplifting and relaxing. In fact, research has shown that citronella oil seems to activate both para-sympathetic and sympathetic nervous activity. ( 8)
What is the purpose of citronella oil?
While Citronella essential oil can be used in a plethora of ways, let’s first talk about what it’s most known for: repelling pesky insects. Diffuse Citronella while you’re outdoors to ward off insects, especially mosquitoes.
Where can I buy Citronella essential oil?
Where to Buy Citronella. Buy Now. When it comes to purchasing essential oils, it’s important that they’re of high quality. At doTERRA, you can buy pure and potent Citronella essential oil that you can trust.
What essential oils can I use with Citronella?
While Citronella can pack a punch on its own, it also works well with other essential oils, including Cassia, Cilantro, Ginger, Geranium, and Bergamot. Combining any of these essential oils with Citronella in your diffuser is sure to create a refreshing scent you’ll love. .
How to use Citronella oil in hair?
Simply add a drop to your shampoo or conditioner to boost cleansing, while also adding some sparkle. It’s a natural way to show your hair some love.
Where does Doterra source citronella?
It has thin, bright green blades that give off a crisp and fresh aroma. doTERRA sources Citronella essential oil from Indonesia, collecting it from distilled citronella leaves.
Does Citronella have alcohol in it?
Additionally, Citronella essential oil contains geraniol. Geraniol is an alcohol known for its cleansing properties, which is what allows Citronella to serve as a powerful surface cleanser. These two remarkable chemical constituents are what give Citronella its incredible benefits.
Does citronella repel insects?
With Citronella essential oil, you can repel them naturally. Citronella helps mask human scents that often attract insects. Whether you’re tackling a favorite hike or relaxing with friends at an outdoor BBQ, Citronella is a great essential oil to have on hand.
