Citronella Oil

Other Name(s):

Cymbopogon nardus Oil; CAS# 106-22-9; Citronellal; Citronellol

Citronella is a close relative of the well-known lemongrass, endemic to Southeast Asian islands. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reports that China, India and Vietnam are the world’s leading producers of citronella essential oil but South Africa is home to a few farms as well.

Is Citronella Oil Faithful to Nature?

Depends.

Citronella essential oil is a natural ingredient with a wide range of useful benefits. It can be manufactured safely and farmed sustainably without harming the environment. It is, however, a powerful ingredient and should be used wisely.

Benefits: Why is Citronella Oil used?

Natural Mosquito Repellent

Citronella essential oil is a natural mosquito repellent.

Antifungal Properties

Citronella essential oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Natural Anti-inflammatory

Citronella essential oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Distinctive Scent

Citronella essential oil has a sweet, fresh fragrance with somewhat grassy and woody undertones.

Learn more about Citronella Oil:

On the Shelf: Which Products Use Citronella Oil?

Like most essential oils, you can find citronella essential oil on store shelves as a single ingredient product. But it enjoys wide use in natural insect repellent and fragrance products like incense, sprays, hydrosols and scented candles.

Production: How is Citronella Oil Made?

Citronella essential oil is made from the freshly cut grass of the Cymbopogon nardus plant using steam distillation.

Interesting Fact: Citronella Oil

EU regulations specify that certain fragrance oils commonly found in natural essential oils must be labelled separately on ingredient lists on cosmetic product labels. The EU governing bodies specify this because they are recognised as potential allergens which can irritate sensitive skin. Citronellol and geraniol are two of these potential allergens found in citronella essential oil. Linalool is also present but in very small concentrations (less than 2%). The mosquito repelling powers of citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) are enhanced by the addition of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus).