Citronella is the scent of outdoor life — fresh, lemony, and bright, with a grassy, slightly herbal quality underneath. Steam-distilled from Cymbopogon winterianus grass, it arrives undiluted and single-botanical, clean and citrusy without being sharp.
Citronella is best known for its traditional use as a natural insect deterrent, and many people diffuse it outdoors or apply it diluted before outdoor activities for that reason; its effect tends to be milder and shorter-lasting than synthetic repellents, so we describe that tradition honestly rather than promising guaranteed protection. Indoors, its lemony, grassy character is a genuinely effective air freshener that cuts through stale or heavy atmospheres.
In a diffuser, citronella blends well with lemongrass, eucalyptus, and lavender for a fresh, all-day atmosphere; diluted into a carrier oil, it can be applied to exposed skin before outdoor activities, and it works equally well in DIY sprays or candle-making at safe fragrance-load levels.
As with any essential oil, dilute before skin contact and patch test first; those who are pregnant should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Browse the full Essential Oil collection, or the Diffuser Essential Oil range.