Citronella Essential Oil (Cymbopogon nardus)

Steam-distilled essential oil of Cymbopogon nardus, Citronella Grass - the tropical grass whose oil is the basis of most commercial natural insect repellent preparations. The oil has a distinctive lemony grass aroma (citronella is closely related to lemongrass) and substantial citronellal content responsible for the well-documented insect-repellent properties.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Cymbopogon nardus (also C. winterianus)

Family

Poaceae (grass family)

Native region

Tropical Asia (Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Java)

Primary compounds

Citronellal, geraniol, citronellol

Aromatic character

Citrus-grassy, fresh, slightly lemony

Common use

Natural insect repellent (in candles, sprays, lotions)

Related to

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) - same genus

What is Citronella Oil?

Citronella grass is a tall tropical grass closely related to lemongrass. The essential oil is the basis of most commercial natural insect repellents - citronella candles, citronella sprays, and many citronella-based repellent lotions all use the same essential oil. The active compounds (citronellal, geraniol) appear to interfere with mosquito olfactory detection of human carbon dioxide and skin compounds.

How to Use Citronella Essential Oil

Insect repellent spray: 15-20 drops in 2 oz of carrier (water with a little alcohol to dissolve the oil, or witch hazel water); spray on exposed skin. Outdoor candles: traditional addition to outdoor wax candles for outdoor patio/deck mosquito repelling. Topical blends: dilute to 1-2% in carrier oil. Diffusion: 3-5 drops in a diffuser. Reapply repellent applications frequently (citronella's effects are short-lasting compared to synthetic repellents).

Safety Information

Citronella can cause skin sensitization with repeated use; patch test before broad application. Generally not recommended for use with infants and very young children. Not as effective as DEET-based repellents in high-mosquito environments - citronella protection typically lasts only 30-90 minutes versus several hours for DEET.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Citronella smell like?
Citrus-grassy, fresh, slightly lemony - closely related to lemongrass.

How effective is it as insect repellent?
Effective but with shorter duration than DEET-based repellents - typical citronella protection lasts 30-90 minutes.

Is Citronella the same as Lemongrass?
Related but different species. Both are Cymbopogon (lemongrass genus) and have similar citrus character.

Can I add it to my skin?
Yes when properly diluted; patch test first. Skin sensitization can develop with repeated use.

What blends well with Citronella?
Eucalyptus, geranium, lavender for additional repellent blends.

Is it safe for children?
Not recommended for infants and very young children.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.