| Common Name: |
Citronella |
| Botanical Name: |
Cymbopogon nardus |
| Family: |
Graminae |
| Location: |
India, Java, Sri Lanka |
| Extraction: |
Steam Distillation |
| Parts Used: |
Leaves |
| Color and Odor: |
The essential oil is pale yellow in color, having a fresh, lemony and sweet odor. |
| Background: |
Introduced into Europe during the nineteenth century. Know universally for its insect repellent properties. It is used in Europe as a room disinfectant and an air freshener. Kept in linen cupboards it will keep clothes fresh and deter moths and insects. Citronella is disliked by cats and rodents. |
| Properties: |
Tonic, stimulant, antiseptic, insecticide, antidepressant. |
| Precautions: |
This oil is best used in lower concentrations as it may cause irritation in sensitive people. |
| Uses: |
- Respiratory System—Good for hayfever.
- Skin—It is a deodorant and refreshes sweaty and tired feet. Citronella can be helpful for treating fungal infections.
- Emotions—Eases feelings of depression by its clearing and uplifting effects.
|
| Blends: |
| RESPIRATORY |
SKIN |
EMOTION |
| Citronella 5 |
Citronella 5 |
Citronella 5 |
| Pine 3 |
Cypress 4 |
Bergamot 4 |
| Eucalyptus 2 |
Tea Tree 3 |
Palmarosa 2 |
| Bibliography: |
Aromatherapy Blends and recipes by Franzesca Watson Copyright © 1995 Thorsons, Harper Parker Publishing Inc. Pp 88-89 |
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