Citronella essential oil is commonly used as an insect repellent. It is also antibacterial and deodorising, as well as being an effective flea spray for animals and used as a moth deterrent for clothes.
Aroma
Citronella essential oil has a powerfully sweet and lemony aroma, with a herbaceous undertone.
The plant
Citronella is a grass that grows to about 3 feet tall and has long flowering leaves. It is grown mainly in Sri Lanka and Java, and also found in Central America and South America.
The extraction
The citronella grass is dried first and then steam distilled. The drying stage is important because it gives the essential oil the more favourable aroma.
Interesting fact
Citronella oil is sometimes used in Chinese cooking to add an interesting flavour and aroma.
History
Citronella essential oil was originally exported from Sri Lanka and the first shipment was known as ‘Oleum Siree’. The oil was originally used in candle making where it was infused in the wax, to make a candle that was an effective insect repellent.
Chemical constituents
Citronellic (acid), Borneol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Nerol (Alcohols), Citral, Citronellal (Aldehydes), Camphene, Dipentene, Limonene (Terpenes).
Blending
Citronella oil blends well with lemon, bergamot, orange, cedarwood and geranium. When blended with neroli or bergamot it is particularly softening to the skin.