Citronella is a grass that has a rich, crisp lemony aroma. Citronella and Lemongrass are cousins. They almost look the same, they grow the same way, and as essential oils, they are processed the same manner. Citronella has pseudostems that are colored reddish. Lemongrass, on the other hand, is green.
It can be found in many Asian countries. For centuries, citronella essential oil, which is extracted from two varieties of citronella, has been used in parts of the world such as China and Indonesia to treat a wide variety of health conditions.
Ceylon citronella and Java citronella, the two varieties of citronella, are both potent. They yield an oil that contains citronellal, geraniol, and limonene. However, the Java variety contains a higher concentration of geraniol and citronellal thus making it much superior to the Ceylon one. Both are extracted by steaming the grass.
Nutritional Value of Citronella Oil
A 100g of this oil contains beneficial nutrients such as:
- Potassium: 723 mg
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Protein: 1.8 g
- 0.5g of fat, out of which there is 0.1g of saturated fat, 0.2g of polyunsaturated fat, and 0.1g of monounsaturated fat.
- 4% of the recommended daily dosage of Vitamin C, 5% of Vitamin B-6, 6% of calcium, 45% of iron, and 15% of magnesium.
Health Benefits Of Citronella Oil
Helps Reduce Fever
Citronella oil has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and antimicrobial property that fights infections. Due to these effects, it can help lower down body temperature and fight the fever.
Acts As A Stimulant
Citronella essential oil can help improve blood circulation, stimulate in the production of secretions and discharges in the body such as enzymes and hormones, increases the activity in the nervous system, and stimulate the immune system. Experts have found that it can ease symptoms in those who suffer from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Effective Insect Repellant
According to studies, citronella essential oil can help kill and keep away insects. It is effective against species of mosquito called Aedes aegypti whose bite causes the dreaded yellow fever, dengue, and malaria. Aside from this citronella is also effective on fleas, and body and head louse.
To keep the bugs at bay, we need to mix a few drops of this oil with a carrier oil and rub onto our skin.
It Helps Fight Depression And Insomnia
Being used in aromatherapy, citronella essential oil can help induce light, happy feeling. It can help get rid of anxiety, stress, and negative thought, thereby making it beneficial for people who want to fight off depression and want to have a better night sleep.
Can Be Used As A Natural Shampoo And Conditioner
Citronella oil can be used to clean the hair and scalp. It can eliminate excess oil and greasiness of the hair, thus adding volume and shine to the hair, and helping detangle knots. Simply add a few drops of it to your shampoo or conditioner.
Helps Stimulate Urination
Citronella oil can also increase the quantity of urination. In a study published in the Scientific Research Journal, it was found that it can help get rid waste substances and toxins from the body, thus helping us eliminate infections in the urinary system, free the body from toxins, reduce weight, reduce chances of renal calculi, rheumatism, keep the heart healthy, and improve digestion.
Helps Inhibit Fungal Growth
Fungal infections are common in the nose, throat, and ear and once they are left unchecked, they can cause several health problems. By using citronella oil, we can kill and prevent the growth of fungi that can harm our body.