Descriptions:
Citronella oil is an essential oil that is made from the distillation of the Asian grass plant in the Cymbopogon genus. This fragrant grass got its name from the French word meaning “lemon balm,” due to its floral, citrus-like aroma. Like many essential oils, citronella oil has certain benefits, and has been used in China and Indonesia for centuries to treat rashes, infections, and other health conditions. Today, citronella oil is probably best known as a natural insect repellent, but its uses and benefits extend beyond keeping bugs at bay.
Uses:
- Insects Repellent - Mosquitoes and other biting insects carry diseases that can be dangerous to our health. Avoiding their bites is our best defense.
- Wound Healing - This may have the potential to speed up the healing of wounds. This may be of particular importance for people with diabetes, as wounds tend to heal more slowly with this condition.
- Weight Loss - Inhaling the components of citronella oil decreased feeding, lowered cholesterol, and slowed weight gain.
- Physiological Effects of Inhalation - Lavender was found to have a relaxing effect and rosemary was found to have a stimulating effect on the brain. Citronella, on the other hand, had a more complex in-between effect.
