Organic Citronella Oil – Nature's Fresh Shield
Benefits at a Glance
- Natural insect protection: Citronella is the classic among natural insect repellents – the fresh, lemony scent that insects avoid.
- Fresh & purifying: A bright, green-citrusy aroma that freshens any room and clears the air in an instant.
- Versatile use: In the diffuser, as a DIY spray, in cleaning products or in outdoor candles – citronella is the multi-talent.
- Organic quality: 100% pure and natural, steam-distilled from leaves. Certified organic.
Application & Special Features
Application:
In a diffuser for a fresh, purifying atmosphere. As a natural insect repellent spray. Diluted in carrier oil for outdoor body application. In natural cleaning products.
Targeted uses:
In a diffuser (3-5 drops) for a fresh, clean atmosphere – especially effective during the summer months. For a natural insect spray, mix 10-15 drops with 100 ml of water and a splash of alcohol in a spray bottle. For outdoor skin protection, dilute 2-3 drops in 10 ml of carrier oil (e.g. Organic MCT Oil). Add a few drops to cleaning water for a fresh citrus scent.
Perfect Blending Partners
Citronella is a bright top note with a fresh, lemony-green character:
- For extra freshness: Lemon, Litsea Cubeba (citrus freshness amplified – the summer trio).
- For floral balance: Lavender (softens the sharp green note and adds relaxation).
- For herbal depth: Rosemary (herbal freshness meets lemony brightness).
Nature's Fresh Defence
Citronella has been the natural answer to unwanted insects for centuries – fresh, effective and without chemicals.
Product Information
- Plant: Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle)
- Part used: Leaves
- Extraction: Steam distillation
- Quality: 100% pure and natural essential oil (Organic)
- Origin: Tropical regions
- Main components: Geraniol (18-25%), Citronellal (5-15%), Citronellol (6-12%), Limonene
- Packaging: Amber glass bottle with dropper – airtight and light-protected
The Scent Profile
- Main aroma: Fresh, lemony and green – the unmistakable citronella scent, bright and immediately recognisable.
- Secondary note: Slightly sweet and rosy, thanks to the high geraniol content.
- Nuance: A warm, grassy undertone that reveals the tropical origin of this plant.
Intensity: Medium-high – fresh, green and unmistakable. Citronella fills a room quickly and defines the atmosphere.
The Professor's Knowledge: The Scent Note
Citronella oil from Cymbopogon nardus (Ceylon type) has a distinctive chemical profile. Unlike the Java type (C. winterianus), which is dominated by citronellal, the Ceylon type is geraniol-dominant (18-25%). Geraniol is a monoterpenoid alcohol with a sweet, rosy-fresh character – it is also the molecule responsible for the rose-like undertone in citronella. Citronellal (5-15%) adds the sharp, lemony brightness, while citronellol provides additional sweetness. This combination gives Ceylon citronella a rounder, more complex profile than its sharper Java counterpart. In the world of natural insect protection, it is these molecules – particularly citronellal and geraniol – that insects find disagreeable, making citronella one of the most studied natural repellents.
The Plant
Cymbopogon nardus (Ceylon Citronella) is a tropical perennial grass from the Poaceae (grass) family. Originally from Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, it has been cultivated for centuries for its aromatic oil. Not to be confused with lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), which has a different chemical profile and culinary uses. Citronella grows in dense clumps up to 2 metres tall, with long, aromatic leaves that release their fresh scent when touched. The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the freshly cut leaves.
Citronella vs. Lemongrass: Although related, these are different plants. Citronella (C. nardus) is geraniol-dominant with a rosy-green scent. Lemongrass (C. citratus) is citral-dominant with a sharper, more lemony scent. Both are tropical grasses, but with distinct aromatic profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How effective is citronella as an insect repellent?
Citronella is one of the most well-researched natural insect repellents. Its active compounds (citronellal, geraniol) are proven to deter mosquitoes and other insects. The effect is shorter-lasting than synthetic repellents, so reapplication is needed every 1-2 hours for outdoor skin use. In a diffuser, it provides continuous protection indoors.
What is the difference between citronella and lemongrass?
Different plants from the same family. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) has a rounder, rosy-green scent and is primarily used for insect protection and room freshening. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) has a sharper, more intensely lemony scent and is also used in cooking.
Can I apply citronella oil directly to my skin?
Never undiluted! Always dilute in a carrier oil (max. 2-3% dilution). For outdoor use, mix 2-3 drops in 10 ml of carrier oil and apply to exposed skin. Perform a patch test first, as citronella can cause skin sensitisation in some people.
How do I make a natural insect spray?
Mix 10-15 drops of citronella oil with 100 ml of water and a teaspoon of alcohol (as an emulsifier) in a spray bottle. Shake well before use. You can also add lavender or lemon for a more pleasant scent. Spray on clothing, around windows and doors, or on outdoor furniture.
Is citronella oil suitable for children?
In the diffuser, citronella is generally well tolerated in low doses for children over 3 years. For skin application on children, consult a professional first and use even lower dilution rates.
How should I store the oil?
Keep away from direct light and heat sources. The amber glass bottle protects the oil from UV radiation. Close tightly after use.
Choose Your Size
Organic Citronella Essential Oil
10 ml Bottle
7,00 €
Perfect for trying it out or as a gift idea.
Recommended
30 ml Bottle
15,75 €
The best choice for regular use. You save!
Important Safety Information
- Use only diluted. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- May cause skin sensitisation – always perform a patch test.
- During pregnancy, consult your doctor before use.
- Do not ingest.