Description
Citronella essential oil is obtained from the Cymbopogon genus plant family. More precisely, it is extracted through steam distillation of the grasses Cymbopogon nardus (Jowitt) and Cymbopogon winterianus (Rendal). This results in two types of citronella oil:
Ceylon, which is obtained from C. nardus and is a native product of Sri Lanka (previously Ceylon). Ceylon citronella oil has a warm, citrusy, and wood scent, and has a pale to dark yellow color.
Citronella oil is one of the essential oils obtained from the leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon (lemongrass). We can supply all natural pure Citronella Oil from Sri Lanka, in any form of packing and anywhere in the world. The oil is used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such as citronellal, citronellol and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use in soap, candles and incense, perfumery, cosmetic and flavoring industries throughout the world.
Citronella oil is also a renowned plant-based insect repellent, and has been registered for this use in the United States since 1948.
Uses of Citronella Oil
Citronella oil is popularly used as an insect repellent. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a bio pesticide with a non-toxic mode of action. Citronella oil can be found in dozens of registered pesticide products, such as sprays, lotions, and candles. At times, it is added to sunscreen, wristbands, and flea collars. Due to its antifungal properties, citronella oil is also used to treat insect bites.
Citronella essential oil is one of the most common oils used in aromatherapy. It is said that as an aromatherapy oil, citronella can help treat and prevent colds, fevers, and headaches.7 As a massage oil, it may relieve pain in individuals suffering from arthritis.
The oil of citronella is also widely used in fragrances and personal care products. It is largely imported by Germany and France, two of the largest hubs for the perfume industry. Because of its antiseptic properties, citronella oil is also used in soaps, household cleaners, and detergents.
Citronella oil is also added as a food and beverage flavoring, such as in alcoholic drinks, frozen dairy, and gelatin and puddings.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Baked products
- Frozen dairy
- Gelatin and puddings
- Soft and hard candies
Composition of Sri Lankan Citronella oil
- Geraniol - 18 to 20 percent
- Citronellal - five to 15 percent
- Citronellol - 6.4 to 8.4 percent
- Geranyl acetate - two percent
- Limonene - nine to 11 percent
- Methyl isoeugenol - 7.2 to 11.3 percent
