Individuals who need to calm their minds and muscles may discover that diffusing the essential oil is just what they demand, which can lower negative moods, raise energy levels, and potentially relieve headaches.

Citronella oil can also aid in easing certain infections and ailments. For example, its medicinal effects can reduce and relieve pain, stimulate wound healing, and help in weight loss.

This oil has a number of uses; that’s why you are here to learn about its uses and benefits. The innate characteristics of citronella oil have a great deal to offer, depending on how you like to use them.

But, despite all the benefits, it could have some side effects if not used properly. That's why we will discuss citronella oil benefits, how to use, and side effects. You'll be chomping at the bit to know, so let's dig in!

Top 7 Benefits Of Citronella Oil

Let’s explore every critical detail, from citronella's medicinal uses to its use as a mosquito repellent.

Help to Wash Your Scalp And Hair

Our body produces sebum naturally; this is often found as a waxy oil layer on the scalp.

Applying citronella can support regulating its production, so if there is an unrestricted accumulation that causes your hair to feel too oily, it could repair an average balance.

Help To Relieve And Decrease Pain

The geraniol compound found in citronella oil works as an anti-inflammatory element.

It widens its uses for aches or pain management and helps to ease stubborn swollen muscles, coughs, and burning skin.

The compound is also categorized as an anticonvulsant, which can help relax painful muscles.

Help To Promote Wound Healing

Individuals with diabetes may be able to get help from the potential healing process, which is one of the benefits of citronella oil, as the disorder often slows the repair process.

Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects of citronella essential oil could speed up wound healing.

Helps To Calm And Relax The Mind

One of the most prevailing benefits of citronella oil is its capability to deliver calm and clarity for people who require it to relieve feelings of anxiety and stress.

As referred above, the oil can relieve and relax muscles, so when used topically as a massage lubricant, it can aid the body in relaxing, providing warmth and a soothing effect.

Help To Keep Pests Away

Another noteworthy characteristic of this oil is that it helps repel insects, especially mosquitoes.

In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency considers the oil to be a natural pesticide. It is a type of non-toxic pesticide that harms insects through its mode of action.

So, when you apply it on your skin or diffuse it, it helps to protect you from mosquitos and other pests bite.

Helps To Enhance Your Skincare

You're going to be thrilled to hear about citronella's benefits for skin, as skin care is the most essential part of your daily routine.

The topical application of this essential oil helps to maintain complexion after tanning and also to clear pimple marks.

Many research studies have proved that citronella oil is beneficial for acne treatment and can be used to complement medications prescribed by dermatologists.

Keep Kitchens And Bathrooms Clean

You will be delighted to know that it can also be used as a house cleaner because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Another research discovered that it was approvingly effective as an antibacterial agent against numerous oral germs.

This could indicate citronella oil can be utilized as an effective home cleaner to destroy certain types of bacteria.

How to Use Citronella Oil Correctly For Different Purposes

You can use citronella oil in a variety of ways for a variety of tasks. Here are some tips.

As a Spray

A spray bottle may be an appropriate option for refreshing a room or spreading to your skin as a mosquito repellent. To make a citronella oil spray:

• Dilute citronella oil with water for 20 ml and add 15 to 18 drops of oil.
• Add a dispersing agent instead of essential oils because they are not soluble in water.
• The spray will be ready after shaking the bottle well.

If you are using this spray as a repellent, reapply it frequently, as it has a shorter span than any chemical mosquito repellent.

As Massage for Muscle Relaxation

You can make a thick texture of citronella oil to use as a body massage.

• Dilute citronella oil with any essential oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
• Recommended dilution is 2.5 percent; for this, add 20 ml of any oil in 15 drops of citronella oil.
• Mix the mixture well, and the thick, cream-like body massage is ready.

For sensitive skin, use a 1 per cent dilution quantity.

Side Effects

Besides all the benefits citronella oil offers, it has some side effects if misused or with the wrong ratio. Some individuals may also be allergic to this essential oil, which can cause red, itchy, swollen, or blotchy areas on the skin.

Citronella oil is safe to use; however, you need to be careful about the concentration and application procedure. To use it on the skin first, you need to test it on a small area of your body.

Use diluted oil for this purpose. Avoid using any product containing citronella oil if you feel itching.

Although no severe allergic reaction has been reported, it’s good for you to know the symptoms since it's an emergency.

• Wheezing or coughing
• Tightness in the chest
• Difficulty breathing
• Swollen throat
• Red rash
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

Our Takeaway

Citronella oil is usually used as a mosquito repellent, although studies have revealed it may also have antifungal characteristics and support wound healing.

You can utilize citronella oil in the form of a diffuser or spray bottle, or you can add lotion or oil to dilute it and apply it to the skin.

It has enormous uses, but its concentration and reaction on your skin do matter; that’s why we have discussed citronella oil benefits, how to use, and side effect in detail.

If you have queries or problems regarding citronella oil, consult your doctor before utilizing it.