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Many of us associate Citronella with outdoor patio candles, yet Citronella oil has more benefits than simply warding off flying summertime pests. In this article, we are going to give you the rundown on everything that Citronella oil can be used for; you could be pleasantly surprised!
Citronella is distilled from the leaf of tall grass, native to Asia. It has a slightly sweet, floral, lemon-like scent, although it is not a citrus oil. While this oil is not prepared to be taken internally, its aromatic and topical uses are not to be missed.
Keep reading to find out how.
Citronella essential oil has quickly become an ideal companion for hikes, camping, and outdoor activities, as it masks human fragrances that insects find appealing. Diffusing it during an outdoors BBQ or summertime will surely repel the mosquitos away, but it may also be applied topically with a carrier oil (such a Fractionated Coconut Oil) as a bug repellant. Try applying a few drops to wrists, neck, ankles, or other desired areas, and feel its superpowers against flying critters. In fact, Citronella Oil is a registered insect repellant in the United States. If you like d.i.y. home projects, add a few Citronella drops to melted wax and make your own outdoor patio candles, or try placing several drops in a spray bottle with Fractionated Coconut Oil and your choice of Cedarwood, Arborvitae, Lemongrass, Spearmint, or Peppermint essential oil to make your own bug repellant.
This marvelous oil can also double up as an effective flea repellant for your dog. Try soaking your pet’s collar overnight in 5 drops of Citronella oil: two cups of distilled water solution, before air drying and attaching to your dog. Remember pets are extra sensitive and have a much stronger sense of smell so dilution is key here!
Citronella oil has powerful antioxidant properties to support cellular and skin health*. There have been some medical studies conducted that observed the effects of Citronella essential oil on lymphocyte cells. It concluded that Citronella essential oil has a purpose in traditional herbal preparations as a natural source of a new and safe antioxidant for the body.
Some studies show a correlation between using citronella for aromatherapy that may help to reduce stress. When inhaled, the powerful, lemon-like, rosy scent of Citronella oil promotes happy, positive feelings. Next time you’re feeling down, try diffusing a few drops and become uplifted by its bright, cheery, optimistic aroma.
Citronella is beneficial to relieving stress and repelling insects, but its oil components including citronellol and geraniol, are also good for cleaning surfaces in and outside the home, as well as our own skin. Try using a few drops of Citronella oil with your shampoo and conditioner to boost cleansing while adding shine to your hair, and soothing
the skin and scalp.
With a variety of topical and emotional uses and benefits, Citronella oil is not to be missed. This summer skip the commercial garden aisles and opt to make your own natural, non-toxic repellant by using pure Citronella oil. And while you’re browsing our website, why not sign up for one of our essential oil party classes and learn about what other uses nature’s plants have designed for us.