Citronella

INCI	Cymbopogon winterianus
Other names	Cymbopogon winterianus Oil, voňatka citrónová, citronela, Citronela jávská, Citronela cejlonská, Citronela, vousatka smilkovitá, Andropogon nardus, vousatka nardová
We use in our products	lemongrass essential oil

Description

Cymbopogon is a genus of Asian, African, Australian, and tropical island plants from the Poaceae family.

Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus) can grow up to about 2 meters and has purplish-colored base stems. From these species, citronella oil is produced, which is used as a repellent (especially against mosquitoes and houseflies), in insect sprays and candles, and in aromatherapy. The main chemical components of citronella, geraniol and citronellol, are antiseptics, and therefore are used in disinfectants and household soaps.

The scent of the essential oil is similar to lemon balm.

Effects and Uses

Citronella has excellent antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It has antidepressant, strongly antiviral, and repellent effects, and improves mood. It is suitable for headaches.

It can be used as a cheaper alternative to lemon balm. Do not use pure oil on hypersensitive, damaged, or diseased skin.

Photo by Bishnu Sarangi from Pixabay