"In the whisper of the wind, nature reveals its secrets, and in the essence of citronella, we find an elixir that protects and renews."
Java Citronella Essential Oil (Cymbopogon winterianus)
Java citronella essential oil, extracted from the Cymbopogon winterianus plant, is known for its fresh and citrusy aroma, one of the most recognizable due to its popular use as a mosquito repellent. Besides this common application, citronella possesses numerous properties that benefit our overall well-being, acting as a powerful ally in various health areas.
Technical Data:
- Botanical Name: Cymbopogon winterianus
- Botanical Family: Poaceae
- Extraction Method: Steam distillation
- Part of Plant Used: Leaves
- Aromatic Profile: Fresh, citrusy, with a sweet touch
- Main Components: Citronellal, geraniol, citronellol
- Origin: Indonesia
Properties:
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce digestive disorders in inflammatory processes.
- Anti-infectious: Capable of eliminating a large number of bacteria and viruses.
- Vermifuge: Helps expel intestinal parasites.
- Antirheumatic: Useful for relieving the symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis.
- Antispasmodic: Capable of eliminating intestinal and muscle cramps.
- Digestive tonic: Facilitates the elimination of gases and colic.
- Nervous system balance: Stimulant.
- Febrifuge: Helps counteract fever.
- Insect repellent: Effective against mosquitoes and other insects.
- Antimicrobial and antifungal: Helps prevent infections.
- Deodorant: Neutralizes unpleasant odors.
- Refreshing and revitalizing: Improves mood and purifies the environment.
Benefited Systems:
- Musculoskeletal System: Helps with muscle pain.
- Digestive System: Helps with digestive problems, stomach tonic, and vermifuge.
- Immune System: Colds, flu, minor infections.
- Nervous System: Fatigue, headaches, migraines, neuralgia.
- Integumentary System: Reduces excessive perspiration, helps with oily skin, and is a natural insect repellent.
Common Uses:
- Diffusion: To purify the air and repel insects.
- Massages: Dilute in a carrier oil to relieve muscle pain.
- Repellent spray: Mixed with water and alcohol for natural mosquito protection.
- Cleaning products: Add to natural cleaners to disinfect surfaces.
DIY Recipes with Citronella Essential Oil
1. Relaxing and Anti-inflammatory Massage:
Ingredients:
- 5 drops of citronella essential oil
- 5 drops of lavender essential oil
- 30 ml of sweet almond oil
Instructions:
- Mix the essential oils with the sweet almond oil.
- Massage the mixture onto sore or inflamed areas.
- Use gentle, circular motions until fully absorbed.
2. Post-exercise Muscle Pain Massage:
Ingredients:
- 50 drops of citronella essential oil
- 30 drops of wintergreen essential oil
- 20 drops of cypress essential oil
- 20 drops of lavandin essential oil
- 20 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 50 ml of hemp seed oil
Instructions:
- Mix all essential oils with the hemp seed oil.
- Apply the mixture to the muscles after intense exercise.
3. Mosquito Repellent Spray:
Ingredients:
- 20 drops of citronella essential oil
- 10 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 100 ml of distilled water
- 50 ml of pharmacy alcohol or vodka
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before use.
- Spray on skin and clothing before going outdoors. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
4. Mosquito Repellent Massage:
Ingredients:
- 50 drops of citronella essential oil
- 50 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil
- 50 drops of geranium essential oil
- 50 ml of sweet almond oil
Instructions:
- Mix all essential oils with the sweet almond oil.
- Apply this formula to ankles, wrists, and neck to naturally keep insects away.
5. Diffuser Blend to Repel Mosquitoes:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 drops of citronella essential oil
- 4-5 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil
- 4-5 drops of geranium essential oil
Instructions:
- Add the essential oils to your aroma diffuser.
- Diffuse for 30 minutes in enclosed spaces to purify the air and keep insects away.
"We quickly recognize citronella essential oil for its application as a mosquito repellent, but its properties go far beyond that. If you're one of those people who always have citronella at home, you'll be glad to know you can use it not only to protect yourself but also to improve your muscle well-being and even your immune system. It's one of the things I love about aromatherapy; each essential oil is a box of surprises."
- Luis Rodero, Aromatologist. Author of Alquimia Aromática.
