How to Use Citronella as a Pest Repellent
- Apply it directly to the skin.
- Mix it with lotion or oil before applying it to the skin.
- Add it to an aromatherapy diffuser.
- Add 2–3 drops to cotton balls and place them strategically around the home or outdoor area.
- Mix it with water in a spray bottle.
Can you wear citronella oil?
Citronella oil seems to be safe for most people in the small amounts found in foods. It’s UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large amounts. Citronella oil seems to be safe for most people when applied to the skin as an insect repellent. However, it might cause skin allergies in some people.
What are the benefits of citronella oil?
Used in aromatherapy applications, Citronella Essential Oil slows or prevents the growth or spread of harmful airborne bacteria, repels flying insects, uplifts negative moods, and relaxes the body and mind. It is reputed to reduce muscles spasms, ease headaches, and boost energy.
How effective is citronella?
Citronella candles are moderately effective at repelling mosquitoes but only in the immediate area surrounding the candle. 6 They do not keep mosquitoes out of your yard, and they do nothing to prevent mosquitoes from multiplying.
What is the benefit of citronella oil?
Health Benefits. Citronella oil is considered to be one of the more effective natural insect repellents. The oil also contains compounds like methyl isoeugenol that exert potent antibacterial effects, making citronella useful for treating minor cuts and scrapes or controlling body odor caused by bacteria.
Does citronella oil go bad?
So, Do Essential Oils Expire? Essential oils do not expire. They do not grow mold. They also do not grow mildew or even yeast.
Are there any side effects of using citronella oil?
Citronella Oil must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Citronella Oil include skin sensitization, irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, dermatitis, nausea, dizziness, fainting, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and lung damage.
What kind of carrier oil to use with citronella oil?
To avoid irritation and other reactions, citronella oil should be mixed with a neutral carrier oil (such as sweet almond, jojoba, or coconut oil) in a 1:1 ratio. Wash with soap and warm water after use, and avoid excessive sun exposure.
How often should you apply citronella oil to your body?
( 6) According to some research, you need to reapply citronella oil about every 30–60 minutes for its bug-repelling effects to last. You can combine several drops with coconut oil and spread it on your body like lotion, or add some to a spray bottle with water and cover your skin, hair and clothes. 2. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Reducer
Where can I buy citronella essential oil online?
Citronella essential oil is widely available online, in natural food stores, and shops specializing in aromatherapy and wellness products. Essential oils are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and do not have to meet any purity standards. As a result, the quality can vary from one brand to the next.
