The Benefits of Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella/lemongrass has been called a “wonder grass” because of all of its beneficial qualities. Many of us are familiar with citronella’s use in insect repellants, but don’t know of all the health and other beneficial uses for citronella oil.

Citronella essential oil is extracted from Cymbopogon Nardus, a type of lemongrass and has a sweet and citrusy odor, as one might expect from lemongrass. The consistency of the oil is light and watery, with a slightly yellow tint. It is often used in aromatherapy for its ability to quickly soothe the body and calm the mind. The Health Benefits of Citronella Essential Oil Pain Reliever: Citronella essential oil is an effective analgesic, relieving muscle and joint pain where applied. Simply rub a few drops of the citronella oil mixed into a carrier oil into your sore muscles and joints. The citronella oil absorbs into the affected areas and gently reduces the soreness. This is a fantastic solution if you find yourself not able tolerate the chemical rub-on pain relievers, or simply prefer a natural and homeopathic solution. Disinfectant:  Citronella oil is a potent antiseptic, and can be used to clean and disinfect cuts and other wounds. It kills the bacteria that can grow and infect cuts, scrapes, and other skin wounds to promote quick healing. Its disinfectant qualities combined with its ability to treat pain make citronella essential oil a safe and effective part of your first aid kit. Anti-Inflammatory:  Citronella essential oil can be used to reduce the inflammation in the digestive system caused by certain drugs, excessive alcohol, and spicy foods. Specifically, discomfort caused by inflammation of the stomach, intestines, and liver can be relieved effectively by the use of citronella oil. It can also be used to treat fever and headaches caused by inflammation. Citronella oil works quickly to provide relief. Diuretic/Detoxifier:  The use of citronella essential oil increases urination and perspiration, resulting in the gentle elimination of toxins, acids, salts, and fats. Because it’s a diuretic, citronella essential oil also reduces water retention, which promotes blood circulation, reduced bloating, and even weight loss. It even receives stomach cramping caused by the unhealthy retention of fluid. Furthermore, this detoxifying effect promotes the healthy renal function of the kidneys. Insect Repellant:  As mentioned earlier, citronella is well known to be an extremely effective and non-toxic method to keep insects away. While commonly used against mosquitos, it can also be used to kill lice, fleas, and ticks. And since it’s non-toxic, it can be used on both you and your pets. As an insect repellant, add 10 to 15 drops of citronella oil to 4 ounces of distilled water, and spray with a spray bottle over exposed skin. Skin:  Citronella oil tones the skin by making it smoother, reduces pores by tightening the skin where applied, and gives the skin a glowing and healthy appearance. It is often used in skincare products like lotion, sunscreen, etc. Because of its sweet and lemony aroma, citronella oil can be added to bath water to treat the skin and fight odor. Simply apply a couple of drops with a cotton ball to tone and tighten the skin or add a few drops to your bath to refresh your whole body. Citronella oil is a great well-rounded oil that not only helps relieve pain, but also aids in cleaning cuts and scrapes, refreshing the skin, and of course, keeping insects away. This is a great oil to add to your essential oil collection.