When we say "citronella", we immediately think "mosquito repellent". Indeed, lemongrass, and more specifically its essence, is reputed to effectively repel mosquitoes. But did you know that it also has other virtues? Find out more about citronella essential oil than just its natural anti-mosquito properties!
Citronella essential oil, yes, but which one?
There are many varieties of lemongrass: Indian lemongrass or verbena cymbopogon citratus, Ceylon lemongrass cymbopogon nardus, Java lemongrass cymbopogon winterianus... There are no fewer than fifty different varieties in the Cymbopogon genus!
The ones we're interested in here, and the ones most commonly found, are Ceylon and Java. They are generally used in synergies against mosquitoes with geranium and eucalyptus essential oils, for example.
Citronella essential oil in synergy
Citronella EO has a fresh, invigorating fragrance. It blends perfectly with bergamot, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, neroli, peppermint, petitgrain andylang-ylang. Note that many of the listed EOs are used in the composition of insect repellent synergies!
How to use citronella EO
On air :
Diffused into the living room or bedroom, it refreshes and purifies the air, keeping mosquitoes at bay. Perfect for summer evenings! However, caution: do not diffuse in the presence of children, asthmatics or pets...
Cosmetics:
Added to your DIY deodorant, lemongrass EO adds a fresh fragrance and acts as an antiperspirant. 1 drop is enough, as its characteristic odor can quickly become unpleasant. Try it out for yourself!
In a bath :
If you start to catch a cold, a few drops of EO with dispersant in your bath will help clear the respiratory tract and boost your immune system.
In the hollow of the wrist:
A drop in the hollow of the wrist helps you breathe when you feel anxiety rising. The scent of lemongrass essential oil will soothe anxious minds.
Close-up on Ceylon citronella essential oil
Ceylon citronella essential oil is rich in terpene compounds, including geraniol, which accounts for almost 18%.
It has anti-infectious, anti-bacterial, airborne antiseptic and insect repellent properties , notably against mosquitoes. It is also antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory.
Ceylon citronella EO is recommended to relieve spasmodic colitis and infectious enterocolitis.
Pelvic and joint pain , such as rheumatism and arthritis, will improve with a massage oil containing Ceylon citronella EO.
Close-up on Java citronella essential oil
Citronella, a monoterpene aldehyde, is the active ingredient most present in Java citronella EO. Its properties act as an anti-infective and anti-inflammatory agent.
Java citronella essential oil is recommended to accompany and relieve infectious, inflammatory and/or rheumatic pathologies.
Citronella in energetic aromatherapy
Lemongrass provides a boost. It cleanses residual anger while purifying and warding off negative energies. Lemongrass essential oil is positive, invigorating and protects against energy vampirism. Energy vampirism is when you feel drained of all vital energy when in contact with certain people.
Although you too have some responsibility in this process, lemongrass EO will help you to take a stand, to say no/ stop/ I don't want to/ enough... It reconnects you to your own power, to your "inner yes". In fact, knowing how to say yes is more powerful than knowing how to say no. The best thing is to try it out for yourself!
DIY Auric Spray: Mix water, dispersant and drops of citronella essential oil in a small spray bottle. Consciously spray your energy bubble (aura) around you.
Contraindications of citronella essential oil
According to current scientific literature, there are no known contraindications at physiological doses. However, you should bear in mind that essential oils in general should not be self-medicated if you are taking medication, are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you are a child.