Citronella oil is a type of essential oil that comes from an Asian grass plant. Also, it got its name from the French word, which means “lemon balm.” The reason is due to its floral and citrus-like smell. Hence, this grass exists in some Asian countries. China and Indonesia have used this long before. They used it to treat health conditions like rashes and infections. Additionally, you can have this oil as a spray, diffuser, or massage oils and creams. If you love natural oils, try this one.
Benefits
1. Mosquito Repellent
Malaria and dengue are examples of diseases that mosquitoes can pass on to humans. Severe cases of these diseases can lead to death. Hence, Citronella oil is a natural mosquito repellant. Studies show that this oil prevents mosquito bites. Therefore, try mixing this oil with vanillin (got from vanilla beans). It provides up to three-hour protection from bites.
Moreover, apply it often to get longer protection against mosquitoes. However, using 100% of this oil may also cause skin reactions. If your skin reacts to this oil, stop the use and consult a doctor. Also, there is still a lack of evidence for it as an insect repellant. If you need more extended protection, it is better to use DEET.
Citronella geranium, also known as mosquito plant, also repels mosquitoes. It gives a smell which they don’t like.
2. Antifungal Agent
Studies say that citronella oil is an antifungal agent. Hence, it has effects that help in making certain fungi to become weak. Therefore, such fungi can cause health problems. An example of fungus it can weaken is the fungus that causes lung and sinus infection.
This oil can destroy the cell wall of the fungus. It kills everything in it that may cause infection. Also, it can fight off infections in the mouth and other parts of the body with cinnamon oil. Afterward, apply this solution every day to be effective. It can kill odors in the house as it controls mold and mildew.
3. Anti-inflammatory
Citronella essential oil has a natural anti-inflammatory compound. Also, it helps to reduce swelling that causes pain. This oil removes toxins that cause pain and swelling.
4. Speeds Up Wound Healing
This oil can speed up wound healing. Hence, people with diabetes have a hard time wound healing. As their wounds tend to heal slowly, this oil might be of help to them. Using a diabetic mouse model, researchers saw that the oil affected the healing of a mouse’s wounds. They say that its antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect led to faster wound healing.
5. Weight Loss
Furthermore, inhaling citronella essential oil has an impact on body weight. A study in rats found that it dropped feeding and cholesterol. It also slowed down weight gain. Researchers used this study on rats. So, they must do more research to know if it works on humans.
6. Good for the Brain
For some people, it may give a calming effect and a stimulating effect on others. Hence, this natural aroma can induce feelings of happiness and hope. It can also relieve anxiety and stress. So, it leads to a good night’s sleep for people with insomnia. It also increases blood flow. This oil stimulates the circulation of blood in the body.
7. May Lower Blood Pressure
For people with high blood pressure, essential oils like citronella can lower BP. This result follows the oil’s ability to ease stress.
For Safety:
- Use diluted citronella oil.
- Keep it out of pet and children’s reach. Essential oils can be toxic when drunk or inhaled. A toddler died after taking by mouth the insect repellent with citronella.
- Use it in a well-ventilated space. Do this if you are using it for aromatherapy.
- Try on a small area first. For your first time, do not apply in a large area of your skin.
- If you react upon inhaling or applying the oil to your skin, stop use. It may be safe for some but not for all. A report shows lung damage after use.
- Pregnant or nursing moms must talk to a doctor before using this oil.
Citronella geranium does not contain oil. It is not the one used for oil extraction. Still, it is effective in keeping mosquitoes away. Citronella oil has lots of benefits for health. It might work for some and not for others. Apply the safety tips to get an effective result.
