CITRONELLA ESSENTIAL OIL

Description

Citronella essential oil is derived from the leaves and stems of two types of grass—Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus—which are native to Southeast Asia. This oil has a fresh, citrusy, and slightly sweet aroma, which makes it a popular choice for natural cleaning products, insect repellents, and aromatherapy.

Benefits and Uses:

1. Insect Repellent: One of the most well-known uses of citronella oil is as a natural insect repellent. It is particularly effective at repelling mosquitoes, making it a popular ingredient in outdoor sprays, candles, and lotions designed to keep bugs away.
2. Antibacterial and Antifungal: Citronella essential oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which make it useful for cleaning purposes. It can help disinfect surfaces, fight bacteria, and prevent fungal growth, making it an excellent addition to natural cleaning products.
3. Mood Enhancement: The fresh, uplifting scent of citronella oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and improve mood. It is believed to have calming effects, helping to alleviate anxiety and promote mental clarity.
4. Anti-inflammatory: Citronella oil may help reduce inflammation, making it useful for soothing sore muscles or joint discomfort. When diluted with a carrier oil, it can be massaged into the skin to relieve pain or tension.
5. Deodorizing: Due to its fresh, citrusy aroma, citronella oil is effective at neutralizing odors and purifying the air. It can be used in diffusers to freshen indoor spaces and combat unpleasant smells.
6. Skin Care: While citronella is primarily known for its insect-repelling properties, it is also used in skincare. It can help soothe minor skin irritations, such as cuts, scrapes, or insect bites, and is often included in natural skincare products to improve the appearance of the skin.

How to Use:

• Insect Repellent: Apply diluted citronella oil to the skin as a natural mosquito repellent or use it in outdoor candles or diffusers to keep bugs at bay.
• Aromatherapy: Diffuse citronella oil in your home to create a refreshing, uplifting atmosphere that helps reduce stress and improve concentration.
• Topical Use: Dilute with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and apply to sore muscles, joints, or areas of irritation.
• Cleaning: Add a few drops to a DIY cleaning solution to disinfect surfaces and leave behind a fresh, clean scent.
• Skin Care: Dilute and apply to minor skin irritations or use in a homemade lotion or cream to help promote healthy skin.

Precautions:

Citronella essential oil is generally safe for most people, but it should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin to avoid irritation. It is also recommended to perform a patch test prior to widespread use. People with sensitive skin or those who are pregnant should consult a healthcare provider before using citronella oil.

Overall, citronella essential oil is a versatile, refreshing, and practical oil with a range of uses, particularly in natural insect repellents, cleaning products, and mood enhancement.

INCI: Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus

CAS NUMBER: 91771-61-8

APPLICATION: Skincare cosmetics

APPEARANCE: pale yellow brown

USAGE RATE: 0.1-1% up 3%

SOLUBILITY: oil and alcohol soluble

ORIGIN: India