Suggested Uses for Citronella Essential Oil

Digestive complaints, excessive perspiration, fatigue, feline repellent, fleas, headache, insect repellent, migraine, oily skin, sickroom freshener.Citronella is a scent every one knows, but might not love. It’s so strong an insect repellent, citronella actually has a wide variety of other uses. Look closely, and you’ll find it as an ingredient in many perfumes, soaps, skin lotions, and deodorants. Citronella is a versatile essential oil, and is a must for anyone who lives in a hot, humid environment.

Therapeutic uses:

Arthritis, bronchitis, chills, colds, diarrhea, flu, intestinal infections, libido, menstrual pain, nervous exhaustion, poor circulation, rheumatism, sluggish digestion, sneezing, stress-related conditions.

Essential Oil Applications:

For dogs with fleas, add a couple of drops to a “doggie bandana” or to an absorbent collar, such as woven nylon, and place around dog’s neck. Do not use this method for cats, as felines are much more sensitive to this scent.

For digestive complaints, mix 2 drops with 2-3 tablespoons of a carrier oil and massage on abdominal area.

For headaches and migraines, use 2-3 drops in a cold or hot compress.

As an insect repellent, use a few drops in a burner, vaporizer, or diffuser. Works especially well if used by an open window. Be careful if used indoors, as it can adversely affect caged birds.

As a moth repellent, place a few drops on a cotton ball, and place in closet or linen closet. Refresh periodically.

For oily skin, mix 2-3 drops with a carrier oil, and dab on face with a cotton ball.To keep neighborhood cats from digging up your garden, mix 10-12 drops of oil in a plastic spray bottle full of water, and spray around your garden. Do not spray directly on plants.

As a deodorant, mix 2-3 drops with a carrier oil and apply to arm pits.

For those who are bedridden, Citronella is a great freshener for the “sickroom.” Place a couple of drops in a diffuser or lamp ring. Will also help to clear the mind at the same time.

Mixes Well With:

Basil, bergamot, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemon, lime, oregano, pennyroyal, pine, rosemary, orange, and tea tree.

Extraction Method:

Steam distillation.

Parts Used:

Fresh, part-dried, or dried grass.

Safety Information:

Do not use while pregnant.

More Info:

The Power of Aromatherapy
Getting Started with Aromatherapy
The Choosing, Blending and the Caring of Your Essential Oils

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