Citronella Oil
Essential Oil Name: Citronella Oil
Citronella Oil
Scientific name –
Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt
Uses
- Medicinal:
- Insect Repellent: Citronella oil is widely used as a natural mosquito and insect repellent.
- Antibacterial: It helps in treating skin infections and is effective in wound care.
- Anti-inflammatory: Used to reduce swelling, pain, and muscle tension.
Antifungal: Effective in treating fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm. - Digestive Aid: Known to help with indigestion, gas, and bloating when used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application.
- Cosmetic:
- Skin Care: Citronella oil is used in skin creams and lotions for its antiseptic properties, promoting healthy skin and reducing acne and blemishes.
- Hair Care: Often used in shampoos to prevent dandruff and promote scalp health due to its antibacterial properties.
- Aromatherapy:
- Citronella oil is frequently used in aromatherapy to calm the mind, reduce stress, and relieve anxiety. It also has uplifting properties, helping to improve mood and mental clarity.
- Cleaning:
- Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Citronella oil is used in natural cleaning products and disinfectants.
Composition
Main Compounds and Approximate Percentage:
- Citronellal: ~30-45%
- Geraniol: ~10-15%
- Citronellol: ~20-30%
- Myrcene: ~10-12%
- Cineole: ~1-2%
- Other Terpenes: Trace amounts
Citronella oil is mainly composed of Citronellal and Citronellol, which contribute to its refreshing citrus aroma and its effectiveness in insect repellent, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory applications.
Availability in Nepal:
- Region:
- Grown in the Terai region and some hilly areas of Nepal where the climate is warm and humid.
- Altitude:
- Thrives best at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,500 meters above sea level
Sourcing and Production Period
- Cultivation:
- Citronella is cultivated mostly in Terai regions of Nepal, where the warm, humid climate and fertile soil conditions are ideal for growth.
- Production Period:
- Harvesting: Citronella is typically harvested during the monsoon season from June to September, when the plants reach full maturity.
- Oil Extraction: Steam distillation is the method used to extract the oil from the leaves and stems of the plant.
