Citronella, with its intense lemon-like aroma, is an excellent insect repellent.. There are many products on the market based on this plant that repel mosquitoes, mainly candles, but you can also prepare a mosquito yourself. homemade lemongrass oil to make your own repellents or to use on the skin. In addition to its repellent power, it has many other interesting properties, from skin care to deodorant.

What is citronella used for?

The citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) It is a plant native to tropical areas of Asia, especially India and Sri Lanka, which is used especially to repel insects. But its benefits don’t stop there.

Citronella has antimicrobial and antifungal propertieswhich helps treat infections caused by bacteria and fungi, as well as antiseptic effectwhich can be useful for healing minor wounds and cuts.

It is also anti-inflammatory and can help reduce redness and swelling, which can be helpful in treating skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis. It can also help relieve muscle and joint pain.

in aromatherapythe powerful citrus aroma of citronella is used as a stimulant to improve mood and increase energy levels. Its fresh smell also serves as a natural deodorant that helps eliminate bad odors.

Make homemade lemongrass oil step by step

In herbal stores you can easily find citronella essential oilbut if you have a citronella or lemongrass plant at home (Cymbopogon citratusalso called lemongrass), which has similar properties, you can make a homemade oil simplest that you can use on the skin or to prepare mosquito and other insect repellents.

To do this you will need:

• fresh lemongrass (or lemongrass)
• A carrier oil (such as olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil)
• A glass jar

Step by step to prepare lemongrass oil:

• Wash the lemongrass To remove any dirt or residue, dry it and cut it into pieces.
• Lightly crush the lemongrass with the help of a mortar to help it release its oils.
• Place the citronella in the glass jar, cover it with the carrier oil and close it with the lid.
• Store the bottle in a dark, dry place. for about 40 days, rotating it every 3 days.
• Next, strain the oil through a fine sieve to remove any herbs.
• Put the oil in a dark glass jar and store it in a cool, dark place.

This oil, well stored in a cool, dark place, can last up to 12 months.

How to make citronella extract

Another option is make a citronella extract with alcoholwhich you can use as a mosquito repellent. To do this, you will need a good handful of lemongrass leaves cut into pieces and 96 ° alcohol (the one sold in pharmacies) and water (at a proportion of 70% alcohol and 30% water).

• Wash the lemongrass, cut it and dry it.
• Place it in a glass jar and add the alcohol and water until the lemongrass is covered.
• Close the jar and store it in a dark, dry place for a minimum of 15 days. Stir it every 2 days.
• Strain it and place it in a spray container.

You can also use citronella essential oil to make a citronella anti-mosquito spray without toxins or artificial perfume.

What are the uses of citronella oil and extract?

You can use citronella oil to make homemade soaps or candles to repel insects or you can use it as a skin lotion to care for your skin.

The spray with citronella extract can spray it in the areas where there are more insects to scare them away, it will also serve to aromatize your home and as a stimulant to relieve fatigue and stress.