Citronella – cymbopogon nardus Many cultures value the medicinal use of the Citronella leaves for stimulation and insect repellents. It is also a refreshing and clarifying oil.
Country of Origin: Sri Lanka
Plant Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)
Method of Extraction: The oil is steam distilled from the dried or partly dried grass.
Main Theraputic Properties: Antibacterial, Antispasmodic, Digestive stimulant, Anti-inflammatory, Antifungal, Insecticide.
Contraindications: Non toxic. Do not use on sensitive or damaged skin.
Did you know: Citronella grass has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat flatulence and colic.
Oil Appearance: Yellow – brown.
Chakra: Throat Chinese Element: Earth Citronella comes in two main types – Java and Ceylon. We have introduced an oil from Sri Lanka, which is the only source of the Ceylon type, produced from the Lenabatu variety of citronella grass.
Java-type is produced in many countries other than Indonesia, in particular China.
Citronella grass grows up to 1.5 meters in height. Citronella has a powerful lemony aroma which blends well with all citrus and woody oils and is very widely used in household cleaning products and insecticides.
For a natural air freshener – add 3 drops of Citronella, 3 drops of Geranium and 2 drops of Pine to a clean plant spray filled with water, shake well and spray into the air.
Avoid polished surfaces and pets. Or, try 2 drops of Citronella, 2 drops of Cedarwood and 2 drops of Eucalyptus Citriodora in an oil burner or diffuser, this can help maintain an insect-free BBQ.
