Aroma Energy

Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) is a grass that mainly grows in some Asian countries and some islands of the South Pacific. It has a rich, crisp lemony aroma and thus bears the name citronella. 

The essential oil of citronella is extracted from two varieties of citronella. The first one is the Ceylon variety and the second one is Java variety, called Cymbopogon winterianus in botanical terminology. In both cases, the essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the fresh plant.

Insect repellent 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 yellow fever. This is also effective on lice, body and head louse, and fleas. However, citronella is also well noted for its use as an antibacterial, antidepressant and an antiseptic.

Latin Name: Cymbopogon nardus

Plant Part Used: Dried Grass