You have no items in your shopping cart.
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon winterianus
Commonly referred to as 'Java Citronella', and commonly known for its natural insect repellent properties, this Citronella has many other uses in both aromatherapy and medicine.
A tall, aromatic, perennial grass originally native to Sri Lanka, the winterianus varietal is cultivated for essential oil production in many tropical climates such as Africa, Argentina and Vietnam.
About the Oil
This yellowish-brown oil is steam distilled from the leaves of naturally grown Citronella plants from Indonesia.Aromatherapy Notes
A fresh lemon-grass top note gives way to a minty middle note and deep, medicinal and herbaceous undertones.It uplifts the spirit while purifying the atmosphere and energy of a space.
Traditional Uses
The historical use of Citronella has included: treatment of fever, intestinal parasites, digestive and menstrual problems.
In Chinese medicine, it is valued in the treatment of rheumatic pain and for its warming, activating 'yang' qualities on both mental and physical levels.
Therapeutic Properties Described In The Aromatherapy Literature
Antibacterial, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antiperspirant, Astringent, Deodorant, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Febrifuge, Fungicidal, Insecticide, Stomachic, Vermifuge. (See Definitions.)
This winterianus variety of Citronella is higher in Citronellal and Citronellol than the Ceylon or nardus. This means that the antiseptic and antimicrobial actions will be more powerful and therefore the deodorizing effects will also be more effective. Minor internal infections (respiratory, urinary) can be quelled with a diluted ingestion on a daily basis.
- Relieves stomach and intestinal cramps
- Calms menstrual uterine cramping
Psychological:
Citronella can be stimulating, clarifying and balancing for the mind.
Digestive System:
Genito-Urinary System:
Application and Use
The oil can effectively be used in a nebulizing or humidifying diffuser for its insect repellent properties. When traveling, a few drops on a tissue placed near open windows in combination with Peppermint or Cedarwood will add a pleasant aroma while effectively deterring insects from entering a space.Combining Citronella with Lemon essential oil can bring even more of a mentally uplifting effect and equally enhances the effectiveness for mosquitoes.
Citronella can be added to a carrier oil at 3 drops per teaspoon and massaged into aching joints and muscles. Eucalyptus can be added to enhance the warming effect, or Lavender to bring a soothing balance.
Safety
A non-toxic, non-irritant, Citronella can cause dermatitis in some cases, so it is recommended to test a small patch of skin before applying liberally. It is not suggested to be used during pregnancy and if taken internally, please consult a physician.