What is the citronella essential oil used for?
During the 19th century, it gained recognition as an effective insect repellent, especially against mosquitoes. Today, Citronella Oil remains a popular choice for natural insect repellency. Its uses have expanded into skincare, where it is valued for its refreshing and toning effects on the skin. Citronella Oil has a citrusy and fresh aroma that is very pleasing to humans but deterrent to insects and bugs. Citronella thus acts as a natural insect repellent. You can apply diluted Citronella Oil directly on your arms, hands, and legs when you go on a field trip or in areas that have mosquitoes and other insects.Lemon eucalyptus oil and lemongrass oil (citronella oil) are particularly well-known for keeping mosquitos and other unpleasant insects away. The ingredients in these oils – including citral, citronellal and/or geranium oil – will efficiently keep mosquitos and co.There are many essential oils known for being excellent insect repellents. Here is a list of some of the most common: Eucalyptus Citriodora or Eucalyptus Globulus, Citronella, Clove, Lemongrass, Rose Geranium, Patchouli, Rosemary, Basil, Lavender, Cinnamon, Cedarwood, Oregano, Thyme and Tea Tree.For those enjoying time outdoors, using repellents like citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender offers a chemical-free way to repel these pests. These essential oils are effective and provide a pleasant scent. They can be used in candles, sprays, or diffusers.
Does citronella essential oil keep bugs away?
Oil of citronella repels target pests rather than killing them. It works by masking scents that are attractive to insects. Thus, insects find it difficult to locate their target to feed. Oil of citronella may also work by masking odors attractive to animals. The unique composition of citronella oil contains compounds like citronellal, geraniol, and citronellol, which are known to act as natural deterrents for mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and other bothersome pests.If you can’t stand the smell of citronella oil, but you need a natural mosquito repellent, try a combination of vanilla and lemongrass oil. Often seen as a better alternative to citronella oil, mosquitoes are known to hate both vanilla and lemongrass.Citronella Oil Known mostly for keeping mosquitoes at bay, citronella oil may also help repel bed bugs due to its strong lemony aroma. While it doesn’t kill them, it can drive them away from treated surfaces like headboards or nightstands, places where they often linger before feeding.EUCALYPTUS. Similar to citronella, eucalyptus has a powerful smell that interferes with mosquitoes’ delicate senses and can make it difficult for them to locate their food sources. The oil from these trees also repels other insects such as ticks, midges and sandflies.Here are the most common ways: Spray: Mix 10–15 drops of citronella oil with water in a glass spray bottle. Great for keeping bugs away during picnics or refreshing a room. Diffuser: Add a few drops into a diffuser to spread the aroma indoors.
How do you use citronella oil in your house?
Mix citronella essential oil (my favorite is this organic variety by Nature’s Oil from Amazon) with water and a small amount of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. This is a great alternative to chemical insect repellents and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including outdoor furniture and window screens. Lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and lemongrass essential oils – Not only will spraying these oils around the house create a beautiful aroma, but they will also deter those pesky flies too. Apple cider vinegar – Flies love the smell of apples and vinegar.
Can I put citronella oil directly on my skin?
No, citronella essential oil should not be applied directly to the skin or hair without proper dilution. It is highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if used undiluted. Lemon eucalyptus oil The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have approved eucalyptus oil as an effective ingredient in mosquito repellent. A 2014 study showed that a mixture of 32 percent lemon eucalyptus oil provided more than 95 percent protection against mosquitoes for 3 hours.Another research study found peppermint oil to be significantly effective in repelling insects that carry diseases like yellow fever. Other essential oils reported to be successful as mosquito repellents include lemongrass, basil, neem, eucalyptus, catnip, lavender and thyme.Insect repellent Citronella oil is used especially as a mosquito repellent, particularly for Aedes aegypti (dengue fever mosquito). Research also indicates that citronella oil is an effective repellent for body lice, head lice, and stable flies.When applied to the skin: Citronella oil is possibly safe for most people when used as an insect repellent. It might cause skin reactions or irritation in some people. When inhaled: Citronella oil is likely unsafe. Lung damage has been reported.