What is Citronella?
Citronella is a lemon-scented grass that is familiar to most. Memories of sitting outside in the evening with candles scented with this fragrance come to mind. This oil is often found in bug sprays, as well as candles, to repel mosquitoes.
This grass yields a colorless to pale yellow oil when steam distilled. The scent is sweet, intense lemon with woody and floral notes. Citronella blends well with other citruses, such as Bergamot and Orange, as well as Cedarwoods, and some florals such as Geranium and Lavender.
This oil is famous for its bug repellent capabilities, but did you know that this oil is also a nice deodorizer? It can be used in the kitchen, in bathrooms and topically on the body. Citronella can also be used in recipes for mental fatigue.
There are many ways to use Citronella essential oil. Here are my 4 favorite ways to use this oil:
Bug Away Spray
This combination is a tried and true blend for keeping those bugs away from you. This spray can be used all over the body, but avoid the face. Spray this blend on the hair, on the arms, legs, etc. Alternatively, blend only the essential oils and add to shampoos, conditioners, soaps, etc. Don't have time to make your own spray? Check out our Natural Bug Spray!
- Citronella Essential Oil - 20 drops
- Blood Cedarwood Essential Oil - 20 drops
- Geranium Essential Oil - 10 drops
- Lavender Essential Oil - 5 drops
- Peppermint Essential Oil - 5 drops
- Clear Alcohol (Vodka/Everclear) - 1/2 ounce
- Distilled Water - 1 1/2 ounces
Add alcohol to a 2 ounce glass spray bottle. Add essential oils and shake well. Add water and shake well. Mist as needed. Shake well before each use.
Cutting Board Deodorizing Oil
Does your wood cutting board always smell like onions? The odor of onion seems to permeate my cutting board which is not always what is desired. Try this wood nourishing oil for your chopping block next time those strong scents infiltrate your board!
- Citronella Essential Oil - 5 drops
- Steam Distilled Lime Essential Oil - 5 drops
- Clove Essential Oil - 1 drop
- Liquid Coconut Oil (Medium Chain Triglyceride Oil) - 2 ounces
Blend the essential oils with the MCT Oil, or your favorite low-scent food safe oil (olive oil, grapeseed oil, etc). Shake well and rub a small amount into your cutting board after cleaning. Allow to soak in and wipe off any excess.
Happy Times Diffuser Scent
I love a good uplifting scent. Something that makes me feel happy and creates a playful environment for my mind. Try this blend when feeling mental fatigue.- Citronella Essential Oil - 30 drops
- Bergamot Essential Oil - 60 drops
- Wild Orange Essential Oil - 20 drops
- Peppermint Essential Oil - 4 drops
Blend the oils in a small dark glass bottle. Use 3-5 drops in your diffuser as desired.
Deodorant Spray
Deodorant sprays are a wonderful alternative to creams. They dry quickly, don't leave a stain on clothing and can smell delicious! Spray under each arm as needed.- Citronella Essential Oil - 25 drops
- Geranium Essential Oil - 8 drops
- Lemon Essential Oil - 35 drops
- Dalmation Sage Essential Oil - 9 drops
- Clear Alcohol (Vodka) - 3 ounces
- Distilled Water - 1 ounce
Add alcohol to a 4 ounce glass spray bottle. Add essential oils and shake well. Add water and shake well. Mist as needed under each arm. Shake well before each use.
*avoid using this blend immediately after shaving. The alcohol can cause a burning sensation.
Safety Guidelines
There are a few safety guidelines that should be observed when using Citronella essential oil.
- Bears love the scent of Citronella. While camping in bear country, try using another essential oil to repel bugs such as Peppermint and Canadian Catnip.
- Citronella can speed up heart rate. Avoid use on, or diffusing near, heart patients.
- Avoid this oil during pregnancy.
Enjoy this scent for your senses!
Herbalist Natalie