BOTANICAL NAME: cymbopogan wintarianus
Citronella oil is extracted from Cymbopogon nardus (also known as Andropogon nardus) and is of the Graminae (Poaceae) family. It is also known as Sri Lanka or Lenabatu citronella. Although this essential oil has been typecast as an insect repellant (especially for malaria carrying mosquitoes), it also has great benefit in clearing the mind, refreshing rooms and for softening skin, while combating oily skin and sweaty feet.
ORIGIN: Indonesia
Oil properties
Citronella oil has a slightly sweet, lemony smell.
Origin of citronella oil
It is extracted from a hardy grass, native to Sri Lanka and Java. This aromatic perennial grows about 1meter (3 feet) high and is a popular ingredient in wax candles, as an insect repellant, and is also widely used in perfumes, soaps, skin lotions and deodorants.
Citronella oil is extracted by the steam distillation of finely chopped fresh, dried or part-dried grass.
Chemical composition
The main chemical components of citronella oil are citronellic acid, borneol, citronellol, geraniol, nerol, citral, citronellal, camphene, dipentene and limonene.
Precautions
Citronella oil may irritate sensitive skin and cause dermatitis in certain individuals.
Therapeutic properties
The therapeutic properties of citronella oil are antiseptic, bactericidal, deodorant, diaphoretic, insecticide, parasitic, tonic and stimulant.
Uses
Citronella oil's most useful quality is that of it being an insect repellent. It is best used in a spray, a diffuser or on a cotton ball amongst linen. It is also useful in ridding cats and dogs of fleas.
Furthermore, citronella oil helps to clear the mind and has a general toning and tonic effect on the body. It is helpful with colds, flu and minor infections and also has deodorizing qualities.
CERTIFICATIONMRT gives the product which is grown under the stringent organic standards of NPOP, NOP, and EU certification by LACON, GERMANY.
