Citronella Plant Information

Plant History

Plant History When citronella was first discovered, it was often used as an insect repellant Authentic citronella plants are a grass plant formally known as Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus. The plant grows in warmer Asian climates such as, Sri Lanka and Java. Once citronella started being used commercially, the rest of Indonesia, Burma, India & Sri Lanka started to grow the plant quite rapidly and this is where most of the worlds citronella oils come from today. When citronella was first discovered, it was often used as an insect repellant, especially in tropical climates where mosquitos are abundant. Indonesians would also use Citronella as a flavour enhancer in their food, much like Thai's use lemongrass. Over time, it was discovered that citronella had many more uses than Just being a natural mosquito repellant. This oil also treated lice, internal parasites, migraines, sore muscles and has anti -bacterial and anti -fungal properties, which is why it's now used in many deaning products. As beneficial as citronella can be, like the tea tree plant, the citronella plant is considered an invasive species.

Botanical Information

Citronella is a grass plant that's part of the Poaceae family that can grow up to 5 feet in height and 3 feet wide. While it grows long grass -like blades and heavily resembles lemongrass, citronella has a red coloured stem, while lemongrass is fully green. It's also interesting to note, that many plants that are sold as citronella are in fact a geranium plant that's cross mixed with citronella and looks nothing like the authentic plant. Therefore, if you buy a "Mosquito Plant," know that you aren't getting the authentic citronella species. True citronella plants grow long grass stems, while the crossbreed's grow a textured foliage and don't contain the citronella oil that's used in aromatherapy.

Growing Information

Citronella thrives well all year round in warmer climates, but can survive in colder climates as an annual or if planted indoors. The soil used to grow this plant Essential Oil should be well draining since it must be watered and fertilized often. It's also important to note that this plant should be placed in an area that receives 6-8 hours of sunlight, too much sun may dry out the plant.

Parts Used For Citronella Oil

The stems and grass blades from citronella plants are used. The grass is used in oil extraction and the base of the stems are used in certain culinary dishes.

Citronella Oil Information

Extraction Method

Citronella oil is extracted from either citronella species (Cymbopogon nardus/Cymbopogon winterianus) through steam distillation, as are most essential oils. The grass is placed in a chamber of the steaming still and as the steam heats up, it pulls the essential oil out of the leaves. The steam and oil then travel through the apparatus and when they reach a holding chamber, the temperature cools, causing it to re -liquify. The mixture is then carried through to the separator and the oil is siphoned off the water and used in essential oils, while the fragrant water is commonly used to scent products.

Active Ingredients Found In Citronella Oil

The main active components that make up citronella oil from Cymbopogon nardus are; Citronella, Geraniol, Limonene and Methyl Isoeugenol. The active components that make up citronella oil from Cymbopogon winterianus are; Geranyl Acetate, Limonene and higher percentages of Citronella] and Geraniol.

Key Benefits & Applications of Citronella Oil

Healing SOS

Citronella is a very powerful antiseptic and can not only draw out bacteria but can help heal wounds faster. Next time you have a cut or scrape, follow one of the mixes below:
Mix 2 drops of citronella oil, 10 drops rosehip oil and 10 drops tamanu oil. Apply directly to wound, then cover wound with bandage to help keep oil in place. Mix 2 drops citronella oil with 20 drops tamanu oil In a spray bottle filled with witch hazel, shake and spray directly on wound. Mix 1 drop citronella oil with 10 drops tamanu oil and 1 teaspoon pure aloe vera. Soak a cotton ball in mixture and apply cotton ball directly to wound and tape in place if necessary.

Lice Buster

Citronella isn't only effective at keeping mosquitos away, it's also a very effective lice remedy. Follow the remedy's below to treat a lice infestation: Mix 1 drop citronella oil, 1 drop tea tree oil and 15 drops tamanu oil and apply directly to scalp. Wrap head with towel to lock in heat and leave on for 4 hours and repeat as necessary. Mix 1 drop citronella oil with 1 drop tea tree oil and 10 drops tamanu oil and apply directly to scalp, leave on all day and rinse out with shampoo. Add 1 drop citronella oil to shampoo and wash hair as normal for several days.

Muscle Spasm Relief

Citronella is very effective at stimulating the body and keeping optimal blood flow therefore, it can help relieve muscle spasms and aches. Simply: Mix 1 drop citronella oil with 2 tbsp of your favourite unscented body cream and rub on muscles or all over a tired body. Mix 2 drops citronella oil with 20 drops almond oil and rub into muscles. Mix 2 drops citronella oil with 1 cup of water. Soak cloth in mixture, wring it out and wrap cloth around muscle for 30 minutes.

Reduce Bugs

Citronella is famously known for its mosquito repelling capabilities. To keep your backyard mosquito free: Diffuse 2 drops citronella oil and place in backyard (don't sit too close to steam as citronella shouldn't be directly inhaled). Mix 20 drops argan oil in rollerball and add 2 drops citronella oil, apply to wrists, ankles and behind ears. Melt unscented wax and add 3 drops citronella oil, place melted wax into candle mold and let it harden. Light candle in backyard to keep mosquitos away.

Body Freshener

Citronella's antiseptic and stimulating qualities make it effective at detoxing the body and fighting unpleasant body odor. Mix 3 drops of this oil in a warm bath and blend oil into water. Soak for 30 minutes to an hour to pull out toxins and refresh your body. Mix 2 drops citronella oil with 20 drops tamanu oil in a roller ball and apply to underarms as necessary. In a spray bottle mix 1 drop citronella oil with 3 drops lavender oil and 10 drops jojoba oil. Fill bottle with water, shake and use as a body mist when needed. Mix 1 drop citronella oil with 2 tbsp unscented body lotion or cream and rub all over, avoiding sensitive areas.

Shopping For High Quality Citronella Oil

When selecting a citronella oil, choose one that is pure, and organic when possible. Look for a product that is steam distilled, as this yields a clean product that us solvent free. Here is a selection of high-quality citronella products.