Citronella
Citronella
Citronella oil is an essential oil obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon. It acts as a natural repellent against insects and mosquitoes. It possesses antimalarial, insecticidal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Citronella essential oil is also used in aromatherapy[2].
What are the synonyms of Citronella?
Cymbopogon, Lemon grass, Bhutrnah, Jambiratrnah, Guhyabija, Bhutika, Gandhatrun, Gandhabenaa, Lilichaa, Harichaaya, Majjigahullu, Chennanampullu, Incippullu, Vasanappullu, Hirvaa Chahaa, Olaa Chahaa, Paatichahaa, Sharbaan, Vasanaipillu, Nimmagaddi, Vasana gaddi
What is the source of Citronella?
Plant Based
Benefits of Citronella
Modern Science View
While Citronella oil helps prevent mosquito bites, it does not kill mosquitoes. The active compounds in Citronella oil blocks the olfactory receptors in mosquitoes that attracts them to the host odor causing them to become disoriented[3][5].
Tip
Use citronella oil in combination with other volatile oil like vanillin to increase the protection time of citronella oil against mosquito bites.
Tip
Use citronella oil in combination with other volatile oil like vanillin to increase the protection time of citronella oil against mosquito bites.
How effective is Citronella?
Likely effective
Preventing mosquito bites
FAQs about Citronella benefits
Precautions when using Citronella
Allergy
Modern Science View
Citronella oil might be safe for most people when applied to the skin as an insect repellent. However, it might cause skin allergies in some people. So consult a doctor before applying citronella oil on the skin.
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
It is also unsafe to inhale Citronella oil as it can cause lung damage[3].
Recommended Dosage of Citronella
- Citronella Oil - 5-10 drops or as per your requirement.
How to use Citronella
1. Citronella oil in Steamer
a. Take 2-3 cups of water in a steamer.
b. Add 2-3 drops of Citronella oil to it.
c. Cover your face and inhale the steam.
d. Repeat this once or twice a day to manage cold and flu[2].
2. Citronella oil as Insect repellent
Add 2 to 3 drops of Citronella oil in your air freshener, diffuser or vaporizer to repel insects.
3. Citronella in coconut oil
a. Take 5-10 drops of Citronella oil.
b. Dilute it with same quantity of coconut or jojoba oil.
c. Rub the mixture on your skin or spray on the hair or clothes.
d. Use this as an effective remedy to repel the mosquitoes[5].
4. Citronella essential oil
Add 1-2 drops of citronella oil in the shower gel, shampoo or lotion.
a. Take 2-3 cups of water in a steamer.
b. Add 2-3 drops of Citronella oil to it.
c. Cover your face and inhale the steam.
d. Repeat this once or twice a day to manage cold and flu[2].
2. Citronella oil as Insect repellent
Add 2 to 3 drops of Citronella oil in your air freshener, diffuser or vaporizer to repel insects.
3. Citronella in coconut oil
a. Take 5-10 drops of Citronella oil.
b. Dilute it with same quantity of coconut or jojoba oil.
c. Rub the mixture on your skin or spray on the hair or clothes.
d. Use this as an effective remedy to repel the mosquitoes[5].
4. Citronella essential oil
Add 1-2 drops of citronella oil in the shower gel, shampoo or lotion.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Put a few drops of Citronella oil on a cotton pad and place it inside your linen closet to help keep clothes smelling fresh and free from moths. Alternatively, in a clean spray bottle, combine a few drops of Citronella Oil with water. Shake to mix thoroughly and spray areas around your home.
Modern Science View
Although Citronella oil and Lemongrass oil are processed in the same way, both have different properties.
Modern Science View
Citronella oil can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property[8].
Ayurvedic View
Citronella oil helps in managing joint pain due to arthritis due to its Vata balancing property.
Tip:
Use Citronella oil with olive oil and massage the affected area gently.
Tip:
Use Citronella oil with olive oil and massage the affected area gently.
Modern Science View
Citronella oil can act as a natural stress reliever. A study states that it relaxes the nervous system and lowers the level of stress and mental fatigue[9].
Ayurvedic View
Citronella oil helps reduce trouble sleeping, stress and relaxes the mind by balancing Vata dosha.
Modern Science View
Citronella oil is generally safe when applied externally as an insect repellent. However, people sensitive to Citronella oil may develop skin allergies[3].
Tip:
Citronella may also cause irritation and burning if not diluted properly before applying to the skin[10]. Always use citronella oil with a carrier oil.
Tip:
Citronella may also cause irritation and burning if not diluted properly before applying to the skin[10]. Always use citronella oil with a carrier oil.
Ayurvedic View
Citronella oil should be diluted with a base oil like coconut oil before applying on the skin due to its Tikshna (Sharp) and Ushna (hot) nature.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Shah G, Shri R, Panchal V, et al.Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Cymbopogon citratus, stapf (Lemon grass).J Adv Pharm Technol Res.2011;2(1):3–8.",https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-627-citronella%20oil.aspx?activeingredientid=627&activeingredientname=citronella%20oil,"Ogoma SB, Ngonyani H, Simfukwe ET, et al.The mode of action of spatial repellents and their impact on vectorial capacity of Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto.PLoS ONE,2014;9(12)e110433.
- Kongkaew C, Sakunrag I, Chaiyakunapruk N, et al.Effectiveness of citronella preparations in preventing mosquito bites: Systematic review of controlled laboratory experimental studies.Tropical Medicine and International Health.2011;16(7):802-810.
- Batubara I, Suparto IH, Sa’diah H, et al.Effects of Inhaled Citronella Oil and Related Compounds on Rat Body Weight and Brown Adipose Tissue Sympathetic Nerve.Nutrients.2015;7:1859-1870.",http://naturaldatabase.therapeuticresearch.com/nd/PrintVersion.aspx?id=627
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.