Organic Essential Oil – Citronella

Latin name: Cymbopogon Nardus

Part of the plant used: Dried Grass

Source: Sri Lanka

Extraction method: Steam Distillation

In addition to being useful as an insect repellent for the skin, this oil is good for excessive perspiration, oily skin and hair, and works as a deodorant. It is said to relieve pain due to rheumatism and arthritis, and resist flu, colds, and minor infections. The oil is good for the digestive system to cure colitis, intestinal infections and eliminate intestinal parasites. Relieves menstrual cramps and pain, and speeds up the heartbeat. Used in a vaporiser, it is known to dispel fatigue, headaches and neuralgia, and create a mood and optimism. Avoid use during pregnancy and in children under 3 years of age. Do not consume it internally.

Ancient cultures in India, Egypt, and elsewhere, where Cymbopogon grass species grew, used them to repel insects, especially mosquitoes. In those times, people settled near rivers and bodies of water. While this was a good thing in many ways, it also meant a lot of insects, mosquitoes, which caused disease and killed people. So using this herb as a repellent was a matter of life and death at that time.