Citronella oil

Citronella oil is one of the essential oils obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon (lemongrass). The oil is used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such as citronella, citronellal, and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use in soap, candles and incense, perfumery, cosmetic, and flavoring industries throughout the world  Citronella oil is also a plant-based insect repellent and has been registered for this use in the United States since 1948  The United States Environmental Protection Agency considers oil of citronella as a bio pesticide with a non-toxic mode of action.

Citronella is a genus of trees and shrubs in the family Cardiopteridaceae described as a genus in 1832. It is native to tropical regions of South and Central America, insular Southeast Asia, Queensland, and islands of the western Pacific. The genus was formerly treated as belonging to the family Icacinaceae.

Few species have been cultivated. Citronella mucronata, from Chile, is remarkable for its hardiness compared to other members of this genus. It is one of the most well-known of the species and has been introduced to Europe.

Benefits

• Antiseptic: The antiseptic properties of this essential oil fight infections in wounds.
• Deodorant: The crisp, rich citrus or lemon-like aroma of this oil drives away body odor and is used in deodorants and body sprays, although in very small quantities, since in heavy doses it may create skin irritations. It can also be mixed with bath water to have a refreshing, body odor-ending bath.
• Insect Repellent: This is one of the most commonly used properties of this essential oil, as it kills and keeps away insects. It has been found particularly effective on a species of mosquito, called Aedes Aegypti whose bite causes the dreaded Yellow Fever. This is also effective on lice, body and head louse, and fleas.
• Kitchen Cleaner: Proven to have strong anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, citronella can help clean kitchen, bathroom or household surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals. Because of its compounds, including methyl isoeugenol, it’s effective for reducing food-borne pathogens and even dangerous bacteria.
• Natural household cleaner:Thanks to its powerful antibacterial and anti fungal properties, citronella makes a great natural household cleaner too. Use it to clean your bathroom, kitchen or other surfaces without having to resort to harsh chemicals. It’s even effective for getting rid of food borne pathogens and harmful bacteria.

To make an all-purpose citronella cleaning spray, you’ll need:

• 16 oz. spray bottle
• 1 1/2 cups (12 ounces) + extra purified water
• 1 tbsp. unscented liquid
• 10 drops pure tea tree oil
• 5-10 drops citronella essential oil

Hair :

Natural Shampoo and Conditioner:

One of the most popular uses for citronella oil is cleansing and conditioning the hair and scalp. It can help eliminate excess oil and greasiness of hair while also fighting dandruff and adding shine. Many people find it adds volume to hair, detangles knots and helps protect hair color from sun damage.

• Add several drops to your shampoo or conditioner, or try making your own using a cleansing oil like coconut oil, which also benefits hair.

Controls Excess Oil Secretion on Scalp

This essential oil is a hair-friendly oil, which has often overlooked for its benefits to hair due to the hype of its insect repellent characteristic. This floral smelling oil is one of the best remedies to control the excess secretion of oil on the scalp. When applied regularly, it helps in keeping the scalp and hair oil free for a considerably long time. Using citronella oil mixed with jojoba oil nourishes the scalp and removes excess oil.

2.Manages Frizzy Hair:

This essential oil also helps in treating frizzy hair, leaving them soft and smooth at the end. It offers your hair strands a conditioning effect and thus keeps the tresses manageable, soft and smooth you will fall in love with. Mix a little of the oil in your regular shampoo and your hair strands will get their life back.

3.Adds Volume to Hair:

If you are not happy with the way your hair look and want to add some volume to them, then citronella oil can be your option of choice. To add volume to your tresses, add a few drops of this essential oil to the shampoo you use regularly to make your scalp dirt free.

4.Eliminates Dandruff:

The fresh and lemony smelling citronella oil when comes in contact with your scalp helps in eliminating dandruff. The oil extracted from its leaves has anti-fungal property that aids in controlling dandruff and other scalp infections.

5.Restores Scalp Moisture:

It also adds a touch of moisture of dry scalp and helps in making dry and unmanageable locks, smooth and lustrous. It is further enriched with citronellal and geraniol compounds which results your hair strands emanating lemon scent.

How to use:

The easiest way to use this oil is to dilute it in a carrier oil such as grape seed oil. If you find that preposition expensive, you can also mix a few drops of citronella with almond oil or coconut oil. Use your finger tips to gently massage the oil into your scalp. Leave it on overnight and use an all-natural shampoo to wash it off the next morning.

Hint:-

Pure citronella essential oil should never be used directly on your skin, as this may cause sensitivities. It should be mixed with a carrier oil, like olive or coconut oil. Once diluted, citronella oil can also be inhaled. Just place a few drops onto a cloth or tissue, or using a diffuser

Caution:

For External Use Only Keep out of reach of children. Avoid Contact with eyes. If pregnant or lactating consult your health care practitioner before using .Avoid use with sensitive or damaged skin. Do not use undiluted on skin. Discontinue use if skin irritation occurs. Do not apply on exposed skin if going outdoors. Do not drop oils directly in ear canal or eyes. Oils can dissolve plastics – Use in glass. Use extreme caution when applying oils topically for allergic or autoimmune conditions. Do a 2-days patch test for even the gentlest essential oils before using them generally.