Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella Essential Oil

Botanical name: Cymbopogon nardus

Citronella essential oil is steam distilled from the dried grass and leaves of Cymbopogon nardus, a tropical aromatic grass belonging to the same botanical family as lemongrass and palmarosa. The oil has been widely used throughout Asia in household aromatic applications, botanical preparations, and freshening blends for generations.

The aroma is fresh, lemony, green, and distinctly herbaceous with subtle sweet undertones. Citronella is especially recognised for its vibrant outdoor character and its ability to add brightness and freshness to aromatic blends.

Historically, citronella became an important agricultural crop in Sri Lanka, where large areas were once dedicated to its production and export. The oil later became widely used in soaps, body care products, candles, and aromatic household preparations.

This particular citronella oil is sourced from Indonesia and extracted using steam distillation, helping preserve its crisp citrus-herbaceous aromatic profile.

Aromatic profile

• Fresh lemony aroma
• Green herbaceous character
• Soft sweet citrus undertones
• Bright clean aromatic freshness

How Citronella essential oil is traditionally used

Citronella essential oil is traditionally used in outdoor diffuser blends, household aromatic preparations, freshening sprays, massage oils, and body care products where a clean refreshing aromatic atmosphere is desired.

Blends well with

Bergamot, geranium, lavender, lemon, pine, sweet orange, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and lemongrass.

Extraction method

Steam distilled from the dried grass and leaves.

Plant origin

Indonesia.

Good to know

• Citronella belongs to the same botanical family as lemongrass and palmarosa.
• The oil is widely used in outdoor aromatic preparations.
• Its bright herbaceous aroma can help freshen heavier blends.
• Often included in cleansing and revitalising aromatic compositions.

Safety

For external aromatic use only. Always dilute before topical application. Citronella oil may irritate sensitive skin in some individuals. Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive areas. If irritation occurs discontinue use.