CITRONELLA

Citronella oil, a commonly used form of citronella is one of the oils obtained from certain species of Cymbopogon group of plants, the group that lemongrass belongs to. Lemongrass however is not used in the making of citronella oil. Citronella oil is yellow to brown in colour and has a grassy/floral smell. It is one of the most widely used oils in aromatherapy that comes with a wide range of health, skin and hair benefits. It is a natural insect repellent which also serves as a source of perfumery chemicals that are used extensively in the perfumery, cosmetic, soap and flavouring industries.

COMPOSITION

Citronella oil is a mixture of many components, main ones being citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol. Citronella oil is categorised into Ceylon citronella oil (inferior type) and the Java citronella oil (superior type). Both types are regarded safe as a food additive by the FDA.

BENEFITS

• A natural non-toxic insect repellent, preferred to chemical repellents. Repels mosquitoes, black flies, fleas, lice and ticks. Particularly effective on species of mosquito whose bite causes the dreaded Yellow Fever.

• Its antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties make it helpful in protecting from infections and in faster healing of internal and external wounds. These properties also help reduce acne, boils and warts.

• Citronella oil soothes any inflammation caused in the digestive system due to drug side effect, spicy food, any disease. This oil works fast giving complete relief.

• A great mood elevator, it is an excellent antidepressant, inducing fresh happy feelings and fighting anxiety and negativity.

• It increases perspiration, driving out the toxins, removing excess water, salts, fat from the body. This internal system cleansing results in healthy, glowing skin too.

• Citronella oil is a natural de-wormer, eradicating worms from the intestines.

• It increases urine production, thus disposing of toxins and maintaining a healthy renal system.

• Citronella oil helps maintain the water balance in the body curing fluid retention problems. It helps relieve muscle spasms and stomach cramps.

• Its lemony aroma drives away body / foot odour making it an effective deodorant

• It improves skin tone, helps treat oily skin.

• Citronella oil has a stimulating effect on the endocrine system, nervous system, metabolism and immune mechanism.

• Citronella oil helps control oil on the scalp, adds volume to hair, helps detangle hair and soothes and softens the hair and scalp.

STORAGE

Citronella Oil should be stored in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight in coloured glass. Once opened, refrigeration and tightly closing the cap will prolong its shelf life.

HOW TO USE

For infections and relief from symptoms of cold, use in steam inhalation. As an insect repellent, Citronella oil is formulated into sprays, lotions, pouches, tablets, pellets, candles and cartridges. To repel fleas in pets, animal collars and tags containing citronella oil are used. For minor stomach cramps, massage the abdomen in a clockwise circular motion with a massage oil blend. For removal of excess facial oil, apply two or three drops of citronella oil to a cotton ball and gently wipe off the excess oil.

PRECAUTIONS

Please follow the label instructions for usage. Might cause skin allergies for some people. High concentrations could produce skin irritation. Avoid usage on skin of small children and during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Do not allow children to apply repellent by themselves. Before usage, test for skin irritation by using a single drop of citronella oil on inner forearm. Some people may cough or have throat irritation on oral consumption. Oral consumption and inhalation of citronella oil in large amounts is unsafe. Consult a qualified aroma therapist before use in aromatherapy.