Citronella: Uses, Benefits, Side effects & More!
By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
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By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
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Steam distillation of freshly obtained or partially dried grasses (Cymbopogon winterianus and Cymbopogon nardus) is done to produce oil of citronella. The essential oil obtained from citronella is a biopesticide that has a non-toxic mechanism of action. It has been registered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an insect repellant and an animal repellant.1 Currently, citronella is one of the most commonly used natural repellents in the market and is used in concentrations of 5-10%.2 The oil of citronella is yellow to brown and has a floral or grassy smell.3
Citronella essential oil has become popular for its use in preventing and managing many diseases. Due to its various constituents like citronellol, geraniol, and citronellal, it has many medicinal properties like wound healing, antimicrobial, anticonvulsant, etc.4
The chemical composition of the essential oil of citronella differs according to geographical locations. The constant ingredients that have been isolated are alcohols, ketones, esters, aldehydes, and hydrocarbon terpenes.5
In 100 grams, below are the nutrients found in citronella:
Nutrients | % Daily value |
Total fat- 0.5 grams | 1% |
Saturated fat- 0.1 grams | 0% |
Total carbohydrate-25 grams | 9% |
Sodium- 6 mg | 0% |
Protein- 1.8 grams | 4% |
Iron- 8.2 mg | 46% |
Calcium- 65 mg | 5% |
Potassium- 723 mg | 15% |
Because citronella oil has a high concentration of limonene and methyl isoeugenol, it may work well to control and reduce the quantity of sebum oil generated by the scalp and help those with greasy hair. Additionally, in my experience, it may remove dandruff, moisturise a dry or irritated scalp, and keep away head lice.
Dr. Anuja Bodhare, MD
Citronella is known to have many medicinal properties due to its major ingredients like citronellal, geraniol, and citronellol. Some medicinal properties of citronella include:
Other properties of citronella oil are:
The skin may benefit greatly from citronella oil. Dermatitis and eczema may be tackled effectively, the ageing process of the skin may be slowed down, and fungal diseases like athlete’s foot may be managed. I strongly recommend citronella essential oil use as it is excellent for use on oily skin and as an acne treatment as part of a cosmetic routine because of its antibacterial and astringent properties.
Dr. Smita barode, BAMS
Although the body’s natural healing reaction includes inflammation, chronic low-level inflammation can cause a wide range of issues and worsen already existing ones like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The main component of citronella oil is citronellal, which has been shown to have a potent anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, it includes strong antioxidants that help remove free radicals, one of the primary causes of chronic inflammation. When diluted with a carrier oil and rubbed into painful and fatigued muscles, swollen joints, and the belly for menstrual cramps, it may be incredibly calming. In my experience, when taken internally, it may assist to reduce inflammation in the liver, stomach, and the gastrointestinal system.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Citronella is available in different formulations like:
Citronella can be used along with other botanical pesticides and essential oils. The essential oils that can be used with citronella are cinnamon oil, eugenol, and clove oil. When used in insect repellant candles, waxes like paraffin and beeswax may be combined with citronella.7
Your Ayurvedic physician will prescribe you the form and dose as per your needs.
Also Read: Cardamom – Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
According to studies, citronella may be both energising and soothing. It has a naturally upbeat and joyful scent. In order to reduce stress naturally, it appears to affect both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. From my knowledge, in addition to managing fleas and ticks, the essential oil may be used (in diluted form) on dogs to aid with separation anxiety and excessive barking.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Also Read: What Causes Roaches: An Insight into Infestation Sources and Prevention
The side effects of citronella use are:
Although some individuals might experience skin irritation, risks to human health and the environment are reported to be minimal by the United States EPA. No harm to humans, the environment, or pets is observed when a registered pesticide containing citronella is used as per the label.7
Also Read: Isabgol – Uses, Benefits, Precautions & Side Effects
Keep the following points in mind:
Also Read: Nirgundi – Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
Citronella is a natural animal and insect repellent obtained from two grass varieties. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a food additive and is categorised as generally recognised as safe (GRAS).3
Citronella is a constituent of many registered pesticide products. Citronella oil can be used to produce sprays, candles, pouches, pellets, and lotions. It is also used in some wristbands, flea collars, and a few sunscreen products.3
Citronella is commonly found in Indonesia, China, and Sri Lanka.7
The common names of citronella include lemongrass, Ceylon citronella, citronella grass, nardus grass, geranium grass, citronelle, citronelle de Sri Lamka, zacate limon, and citronelle de ceylan. The preferred common name of citronella is citronella grass.6
Oil of citronella can be used for sterilising food preparation surfaces.10
Citronella oil is used in Chinese and traditional medicine for the management of digestive problems, fever, rheumatism, and intestinal problems. It is also utilised in aromatherapy to cure headaches, colds, and flu.10
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