Citronella Oil: Prevent Pain, Stress, and Insects!
Citronella oil has been used for millennia in China, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka as a concentrated form of phytochemicals and antioxidants extracted from the stems and leaves of the plant. It can help reduce pain, infections, inflammation, rashes, and more.
Citronella: What is it? The oil itself is derived from Cymbopogon nardus, an Asian grass plant.
The most popular uses for it are as a natural, aromatic oil, in insect repellents, and in cosmetics, cleaning supplies, and fragrances.
Scientific studies have demonstrated the remarkable antibacterial and antifungal properties of pure citronella essential oil.
Citronella: What is it? The oil itself is derived from Cymbopogon nardus, an Asian grass plant.
The most popular uses for it are as a natural, aromatic oil, in insect repellents, and in cosmetics, cleaning supplies, and fragrances.
Scientific studies have demonstrated the remarkable antibacterial and antifungal properties of pure citronella essential oil.
Given these powerful qualities, is citronella oil dangerous for people? Not when utilized correctly.
Since citronella naturally repels a variety of insects, it is really most commonly used as a component in homemade or commercial bug repellents. This is only one of the numerous potential applications for citronella.
Since citronella naturally repels a variety of insects, it is really most commonly used as a component in homemade or commercial bug repellents. This is only one of the numerous potential applications for citronella.
What is citronella oil?
The following health-promoting benefits of citronella oil have been demonstrated by numerous studies examining the impact of these compounds:
- Naturally keeps insects away
- Prevents damage from free radicals
- Fights off fungus and bacteria
- Lessens inflammation
- Aids in behavior regulation for pets
Today, Southeast Asian teas and cuisines use the more than 30 species of Cymbopogon (citronella plants) that are widely grown around the world.
The Java and Ceylon varieties of citronella are the two main varieties utilized to make pure citronella oil. Both originated in Asia, particularly in Sri Lanka's grasslands.
The Cymbopogon nardus plant is the source of Ceylon citronella, which contains the following active ingredients:
The Java and Ceylon varieties of citronella are the two main varieties utilized to make pure citronella oil. Both originated in Asia, particularly in Sri Lanka's grasslands.
The Cymbopogon nardus plant is the source of Ceylon citronella, which contains the following active ingredients:
- citronellal (27.87 percent)
- geraniol (22.77 percent)
- geranial (14.54 percent)
- citronellol (11.85 percent)
- neral (11.21 percent)
It smells like wood, cinnamon, and citrus fruits.
It is believed that geraniol is the main component responsible for a number of properties, including as wound-healing, antioxidant, anthelmintic, antibacterial, and anticonvulsant actions.
Cymbopogon winterianus, a related species, is the ancestor of the Java type. The primary active components in Cymbopogon winterianus are:
It is believed that geraniol is the main component responsible for a number of properties, including as wound-healing, antioxidant, anthelmintic, antibacterial, and anticonvulsant actions.
Cymbopogon winterianus, a related species, is the ancestor of the Java type. The primary active components in Cymbopogon winterianus are:
- geraniol (40.06 percent)
- citronellal (27.44 percent)
- citronellol (10.45 percent)
Java is typically more expensive than the other type since it is believed to be more powerful. It smells like lemon and lemon essential oil and is deeper in color.
The three most studied and prized active components in citronella are citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol.
Numerous applications for both varieties of citronella oil exist, such as skin renewal, stress reduction, and antibacterial or antiseptic properties.
The three most studied and prized active components in citronella are citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol.
Numerous applications for both varieties of citronella oil exist, such as skin renewal, stress reduction, and antibacterial or antiseptic properties.
One of the most widely used essential oils in aromatherapy, citronella contributes to the distinctive fragrance of many candles and household sprays.
You may occasionally find it in meals and drinks because it can also be added to food as a flavoring and preservation agent.
You may occasionally find it in meals and drinks because it can also be added to food as a flavoring and preservation agent.
Are citronella and lemongrass interchangeable?
Citronella essential oil and lemongrass essential oil are interchangeable.
There are similarities between a citronella plant, commonly known as a mosquito plant, and its relative, the lemongrass plant. (The genus Lemongrass has around 50 species of grasses, including Cymbopogon citratus, that are indigenous to southern India and tropical Asia.)
They are unquestionably two whole different plants and oils, even though the oils made from them have similar scents and applications, including repelling insects.
There are similarities between a citronella plant, commonly known as a mosquito plant, and its relative, the lemongrass plant. (The genus Lemongrass has around 50 species of grasses, including Cymbopogon citratus, that are indigenous to southern India and tropical Asia.)
They are unquestionably two whole different plants and oils, even though the oils made from them have similar scents and applications, including repelling insects.
Benefits
What are the benefits of citronella? Here are a few of its numerous advantages and applications:
1. Natural repellant for insects
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, citronella is a biopesticide. This indicates that it is a naturally occurring "nontoxic mode of action" that protects against potentially dangerous insects such as mosquitoes.
Which insects are repelled by citronella oil? Does citronella oil work well to keep mosquitoes away?
Since 1948, citronella has been approved as a safe, plant-based ingredient for insect repellents in the United States. It has been demonstrated to keep away harmful Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which can transmit the Zika virus and dengue disease.
It may also provide protection against diseases including dengue, chikungunya virus, filariasis, malaria, and yellow fever since it can repel insects.
Which insects are repelled by citronella oil? Does citronella oil work well to keep mosquitoes away?
Since 1948, citronella has been approved as a safe, plant-based ingredient for insect repellents in the United States. It has been demonstrated to keep away harmful Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which can transmit the Zika virus and dengue disease.
It may also provide protection against diseases including dengue, chikungunya virus, filariasis, malaria, and yellow fever since it can repel insects.
"The topical application of citronella oil can be employed as an easily accessible, affordable, and effective alternative mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases in rural areas such as Tikapur, Nepal," according to a 2015 article published in Rural Remote Health.
According to research that was published in the Israel Medical Association Journal, citronella also helps keep head lice away. To some extent, it might also keep ticks and flies from biting you.
According to some research, citronella oil's bug-repelling properties are only effective if you reapply it roughly every 30 to 60 minutes. You can mix a few drops of coconut oil with water and apply it to your body as a moisturizer or mix it with water in a spray bottle and apply it to your skin, hair, and clothing.
According to research that was published in the Israel Medical Association Journal, citronella also helps keep head lice away. To some extent, it might also keep ticks and flies from biting you.
According to some research, citronella oil's bug-repelling properties are only effective if you reapply it roughly every 30 to 60 minutes. You can mix a few drops of coconut oil with water and apply it to your body as a moisturizer or mix it with water in a spray bottle and apply it to your skin, hair, and clothing.
Compared to burning conventional citronella candles, which are typically manufactured with relatively little amounts of genuine essential oils, using concentrated oil appears to be more effective against bug bites.
2. Helps control pain and inflammation
Citronella, like many other citrus essential oils, has components that help reverse oxidative stress and combat damage from free radicals.
34 distinct citrus essential oils and their constituents were examined for their capacity to scavenge radicals in a 2000 review that was published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry. Many citrus volatile components, such as geraniol, the primary form found in citronella, were identified by researchers to have strong antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals, which can lead to illness and cellular damage.
34 distinct citrus essential oils and their constituents were examined for their capacity to scavenge radicals in a 2000 review that was published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry. Many citrus volatile components, such as geraniol, the primary form found in citronella, were identified by researchers to have strong antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals, which can lead to illness and cellular damage.
Citronella is a natural remedy for pain because of its antioxidant qualities. It can aid in the treatment of unpleasant symptoms such joint pains and inflammation.
Mix two or three drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply to swollen muscles, joints, and tissue.
Mix two or three drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply to swollen muscles, joints, and tissue.
3. Positive and stress-relieving
The zesty aroma of citronella can be calming and energizing. Citronella essential oil really appears to stimulate both parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve activity, which is helpful for anxiety control, according to study.
When you spread citronella in your house or place of business to combat a difficult day, it can help with natural stress reduction. When inhaled, it can promote calmness, energy, and happy memories; it may even lessen sadness and sleep difficulties.
Citronella inhalation has even been demonstrated in certain animal experiments to help lower hunger and maybe body weight, possibly via lowering stress-related desires.
When you spread citronella in your house or place of business to combat a difficult day, it can help with natural stress reduction. When inhaled, it can promote calmness, energy, and happy memories; it may even lessen sadness and sleep difficulties.
Citronella inhalation has even been demonstrated in certain animal experiments to help lower hunger and maybe body weight, possibly via lowering stress-related desires.
4. Able to eliminate parasites
Worms and parasites can be eliminated from the intestines by using citronella oil.
Geraniol also exhibits potent anthelmintic activity, according to in vitro studies. As a result, parasitic worms and other internal parasites are successfully expelled without harming the host by either stunning or killing them.
Citronella is used to prevent external and internal infections for this same reason, and it can be a key component of a parasite cleanse.
Geraniol also exhibits potent anthelmintic activity, according to in vitro studies. As a result, parasitic worms and other internal parasites are successfully expelled without harming the host by either stunning or killing them.
Citronella is used to prevent external and internal infections for this same reason, and it can be a key component of a parasite cleanse.
5. Natural room spray or fragrance
Citronella is a prominent component in soaps, candles, incense, fragrances, and cosmetics because of its fresh, clean scent, which is reminiscent of lemon or lemongrass.
Diffusing citronella essential oil or running a cycle of your home equipment with a few drops added will naturally deodorize your house, dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine.
Diffusing citronella essential oil or running a cycle of your home equipment with a few drops added will naturally deodorize your house, dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine.
6. Cleaner for the kitchen
Citronella oil, which has been shown to have potent antifungal and antibacterial qualities, can be used to help clean your bathroom, kitchen, and other surfaces around the house without the use of harsh chemicals.
7. Organic antibacterial and antifungal properties
By eliminating bacteria and fungi, citronella can be used as a natural skin care product in addition to warding off insect bites. Since citronella is an essential oil that has antibacterial and antifungal properties, it can help with a variety of common skin conditions, such as acne and athlete's foot.
Additionally, it has been demonstrated that citronella essential oil selectively eradicates the candida fungus. Numerous skin issues, including nail infections, can be exacerbated by Candida.
Furthermore, research has shown that it has a stronger activity and a lesser cytotoxic effect than certain other commercial solutions, making it suitable for use in mouthwashes to eradicate hazardous oral germs.
Additionally, it has been demonstrated that citronella essential oil selectively eradicates the candida fungus. Numerous skin issues, including nail infections, can be exacerbated by Candida.
Furthermore, research has shown that it has a stronger activity and a lesser cytotoxic effect than certain other commercial solutions, making it suitable for use in mouthwashes to eradicate hazardous oral germs.
Because of these properties, it might also aid in wound healing.
Always dilute citronella oil 1:1 with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, before applying topically. Try using a sterile cotton swab to dab one drop of pure citronella essential oil along with one drop of coconut oil on pimples three times a day as a simple DIY acne treatment.
Always dilute citronella oil 1:1 with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, before applying topically. Try using a sterile cotton swab to dab one drop of pure citronella essential oil along with one drop of coconut oil on pimples three times a day as a simple DIY acne treatment.
8. A pet's controller
It may sound odd, but citronella oil can help stop dogs from barking instead of an electric shock. Citronella is used in anti-barking collars for this reason.
The ASPCA claims that studies have demonstrated that a citronella collar can be just as successful in stopping barking as an electronic collar, and that dog owners generally have a more favorable opinion of it.
Citronella can also be used to deter dogs from destroying furniture. Additionally, applying citronella to your linens or furnishings preserves them odor-free and clear of bacteria and pests.
The ASPCA claims that studies have demonstrated that a citronella collar can be just as successful in stopping barking as an electronic collar, and that dog owners generally have a more favorable opinion of it.
Citronella can also be used to deter dogs from destroying furniture. Additionally, applying citronella to your linens or furnishings preserves them odor-free and clear of bacteria and pests.
Pour a number of drops into a spray bottle with water, shake, and mist the house and household objects.
Can cats be poisoned by citronella oil? It is not advised to use citronella near cats because they are believed to be more sensitive to it than dogs.
Can cats be poisoned by citronella oil? It is not advised to use citronella near cats because they are believed to be more sensitive to it than dogs.
9. Shampoo & conditioner made of natural ingredients
Cleaning and nourishing the hair and scalp is one of the most common use for citronella oil. It can add gloss to hair while removing extra oil and greasiness.
It helps untangle knots and gives hair volume, according to many people.
Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner to use citronella oil for hair, or make your own at home using a cleansing oil like coconut oil, which is also good for hair.
It helps untangle knots and gives hair volume, according to many people.
Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner to use citronella oil for hair, or make your own at home using a cleansing oil like coconut oil, which is also good for hair.
How to use
As previously mentioned, citronella can be utilized to create a room or bug repellent. Additionally, it can be administered directly, blended into massage oils or creams, burned as a candle, or diffused.
Here are a few ways to use citronella oil at home safely:
Here are a few ways to use citronella oil at home safely:
- Aromatically: You can use a diffuser to spread the oil around your house or yard, much like you would with a candle. Fill a spritzer bottle with water and a few drops of oil to create a natural home freshener. You can also sniff the oil to get a direct inhalation.
- Topically: Dilute citronella oil 1:1 with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying it to your skin. You can either spray the mixture on your hair and clothing or rub it into your skin. A few drops of citronella essential oil can also be added to your body wash, shampoo, soap, lotion, or bath.
Citronella oil can be combined with other uplifting essential oils, such as:
- lemon oil
- lemongrass oil
Try this homemade mosquito repellent remedy using citronella oil instead of purchasing store-bought ones and dousing your body in toxic chemicals. Unlike traditional brands, it smells fantastic and helps fight bacteria and nourish your skin in addition to keeping bugs away.
Citronella essential oil can also be used in the following more do-it-yourself recipes:
Citronella essential oil can also be used in the following more do-it-yourself recipes:
Are you unsure where to purchase citronella oil? Citronella essential oil is easily found online and in health stores.
Always choose one that was made using chemical-free CO2 extraction techniques and is completely pure, organic, and therapeutic-grade.
Always choose one that was made using chemical-free CO2 extraction techniques and is completely pure, organic, and therapeutic-grade.
Risks and side effects
Is it hazardous to use citronella oil? When applied topically to the skin, it is generally harmless and proven to have little to no toxicity, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Since 1948, there have really been almost no reports of negative effects that warrant worry.
Is it possible to apply citronella oil topically? Yes, but for external usage, it should always be used with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil.
As previously stated, it is generally not advised for internal use because of possible adverse effects and quality control issues. (Unhealthy substances may contaminate low-quality oil.)
Since 1948, there have really been almost no reports of negative effects that warrant worry.
Is it possible to apply citronella oil topically? Yes, but for external usage, it should always be used with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil.
As previously stated, it is generally not advised for internal use because of possible adverse effects and quality control issues. (Unhealthy substances may contaminate low-quality oil.)
The EPA mandates that certain insect repellents that contain citronella be properly labeled with precautionary information so that consumers are aware of how to use it safely, just like it does for all commercially available products meant to be applied to human skin.
It is safe for adults and children older than six months to apply topically (not internally). Before administering citronella to children younger than six months, consult your pediatrician.
To ensure you don't have any adverse reactions to citronella oil, such as allergies, redness, swelling, or hives, it's a good idea to start using it in modest doses and to undergo a skin patch test.
Because of safety concerns, pregnant women should not use citronella essential oil.
It is safe for adults and children older than six months to apply topically (not internally). Before administering citronella to children younger than six months, consult your pediatrician.
To ensure you don't have any adverse reactions to citronella oil, such as allergies, redness, swelling, or hives, it's a good idea to start using it in modest doses and to undergo a skin patch test.
Because of safety concerns, pregnant women should not use citronella essential oil.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of citronella oil?
The leaves and stems of some grass species are used to make citronella oil, an essential oil. Because of its ability to repel insects, especially mosquitoes and other pests, it is frequently utilized.
Citronella oil has additional advantages besides being a natural insect repellent.
The leaves and stems of some grass species are used to make citronella oil, an essential oil. Because of its ability to repel insects, especially mosquitoes and other pests, it is frequently utilized.
Citronella oil has additional advantages besides being a natural insect repellent.
- Aromatherapy: Because of its invigorating and revitalizing aroma, citronella oil is utilized in aromatherapy. It might lessen anxiety and tension.
- Antifungal and antibacterial qualities: Research has shown that citronella oil possesses antimicrobial qualities, which enable it to effectively inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungus. For this reason, cleaning products frequently contain it.
- Deodorant: Citronella oil can be utilized as a natural deodorant in personal care products because of its potent lemony aroma.
- Skin care: Because of its antibacterial qualities, citronella oil is occasionally added to skin care formulas to help control oil and lessen acne.
Can mosquitoes be repelled by citronella oil?
Indeed, the efficacy of citronella oil to keep mosquitoes away is well documented. It functions by covering up the smells that mosquitoes are drawn to, like carbon dioxide and body odor.
The oil is frequently included in outdoor protection items like lotions, candles, and sprays. It can offer moderate protection, according to studies, but the benefits could only last a few hours, therefore frequent exposure (for example, using citronella candles) or reapplication are frequently required.
Indeed, the efficacy of citronella oil to keep mosquitoes away is well documented. It functions by covering up the smells that mosquitoes are drawn to, like carbon dioxide and body odor.
The oil is frequently included in outdoor protection items like lotions, candles, and sprays. It can offer moderate protection, according to studies, but the benefits could only last a few hours, therefore frequent exposure (for example, using citronella candles) or reapplication are frequently required.
Is it safe for people to breathe citronella?
In modest amounts, such as when used in candles or diffusers for aromatherapy or insect repellent, citronella oil is generally regarded as safe for humans to breathe.
However, prolonged direct inhalation of pure citronella oil may irritate sensitive people's respiratory systems or trigger allergic reactions. It is advisable to use it in areas with adequate ventilation or to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if you have respiratory disorders, allergies, or asthma.
In modest amounts, such as when used in candles or diffusers for aromatherapy or insect repellent, citronella oil is generally regarded as safe for humans to breathe.
However, prolonged direct inhalation of pure citronella oil may irritate sensitive people's respiratory systems or trigger allergic reactions. It is advisable to use it in areas with adequate ventilation or to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if you have respiratory disorders, allergies, or asthma.
Can people safely use citronella oil?
In general, citronella oil is safe for human use when used properly. Skin care products, insect repellents, and home goods frequently contain it.
But for some people, it can irritate their skin, particularly when applied to sensitive skin or in high doses. It's best to perform a patch test to look for any negative responses and dilute citronella oil with a carrier oil before applying it topically.
It is not advised to consume citronella oil because it may create intestinal problems.
In general, citronella oil is safe for human use when used properly. Skin care products, insect repellents, and home goods frequently contain it.
But for some people, it can irritate their skin, particularly when applied to sensitive skin or in high doses. It's best to perform a patch test to look for any negative responses and dilute citronella oil with a carrier oil before applying it topically.
It is not advised to consume citronella oil because it may create intestinal problems.
Are mice repelled by citronella?
Although it is not a permanent or sure solution, citronella may help deter mice.
Some people use citronella oil or candles to keep mice out of specific places because rodents dislike the pungent aroma of citronella. But mice can adapt, so if the fragrance wanes, they might come back.
Citronella is frequently combined with other repellents or exclusion techniques for maximum efficacy.
Although it is not a permanent or sure solution, citronella may help deter mice.
Some people use citronella oil or candles to keep mice out of specific places because rodents dislike the pungent aroma of citronella. But mice can adapt, so if the fragrance wanes, they might come back.
Citronella is frequently combined with other repellents or exclusion techniques for maximum efficacy.
Are flies repelled by citronella?
Indeed, citronella works well to keep flies away. It helps keep flies, mosquitoes, and other insects away by masking attractants and confusing their sensory receptors with its potent lemon-like aroma.
Citronella is frequently used in outdoor essential oil diffusers, candles, and sprays that are intended to repel flying pests.
Indeed, citronella works well to keep flies away. It helps keep flies, mosquitoes, and other insects away by masking attractants and confusing their sensory receptors with its potent lemon-like aroma.
Citronella is frequently used in outdoor essential oil diffusers, candles, and sprays that are intended to repel flying pests.
Can dogs safely smell citronella?
In modest, diluted levels, such those found in outdoor candles or diffusers, citronella is usually safe for dogs to scent. But:
In modest, diluted levels, such those found in outdoor candles or diffusers, citronella is usually safe for dogs to scent. But:
- A dog's respiratory system may become irritated by direct exposure to citronella oil or by inhaling concentrated citronella oil, particularly in small areas.
- Some dogs may react negatively to citronella sprays and collars used in behavior training, such as coughing, sneezing, or anxiety.
- Since citronella oil is hazardous to dogs, it is best to keep citronella items out of their reach at all times.
In summary, extended or intense exposure to citronella fragrance should be avoided around dogs, although occasional exposure in a well-ventilated area is usually acceptable.
Conclusion
- Geraniol, citronellal, and citronellol are only a few of the many healthy active ingredients found in citronella oil (Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus). It possesses antifungal and antibacterial qualities.
- This citrusy oil has several uses, including as a natural deodorizer, cleaning agent, stress reliever, parasite killer, anti-inflammatory pain reliever, and pest repellent.
- Consult your physician before taking it internally as it is mostly used topically.
%20(6).png)
Commentaires
Enregistrer un commentaire