Citronella

Botanical Name: Cymbopogon winterianus
Part of Plant: Leaf
Cultivation: Ecologically ethical
Origin: Java (Indonesia)
Extraction Method: Steam distillation
Precautions: Non-toxic, non-irritant, may cause dermatitis in some individuals.
Size: 1/3 oz. (10 ml)

Cathy’s Comments: This Citronella oil is from Java in Indonesia, The odor is fresh and sweet with slightly woody dry out notes. The aroma is attributed to citronellal and geraniol. Sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpene alcohols like elemol also affect the aroma. Citronella has been used as an insect repellent: In 2011, the journal Tropical Medicine & International Health published an analysis of 11 studies on the capabilities of citronella oil to repel mosquitoes. Researchers found that when combined with vanillin, the oil did indeed provide protection for up to three hours.

For more information, see Citronella oil profile.