Deep Dive

Citronella


Citronella
Citronella is a tall perennial grass, a relative of Lemongrass, and native to many regions of Asia. It is named for its floral, citrus-like aroma. Citronella essential oil is best known for its ability to repel insects naturally, but it can also be used for cleaning.


doTERRA sources Citronella from Indonesia.

Why Citronella?

Citronella oil has a natural, fresh, herbaceous aroma and is a natural insect repellent, masking the human odours that insects find appealing, which helps to keep creepy-crawlers out of the house and off your skin and clothing. But that's not all... Citronella's chemistry includes citronellal and geraniol, both of which are excellent natural compounds for cleaning surfaces inside and outside the home. The combination of these constituents with its fresh, lemony aroma, is unique to Citronella. Geraniol—a constituent also found in uplifting and skin-friendly oils Geranium and Rose means that Citronella also has a positive, calming aroma and powerful skin benefits.
Uses for Citronella Essential Oil

  • Odor Eater: Drop it into the toilet before #2 or after flushing. Drop onto cotton balls and place inside stinky shoes or gym bags. Drop onto a paper towel and place at the bottom of the kitchen trash can.
  • Pest Control: Diffuse to keep bugs away. Add to a repellent spray.
  • Boost Cleaner: Add to your cleaning spray (especially for outdoor furniture). Add to laundry cycles, especially for summer outdoor clothing.
  • Soothe Skin: Combine with Lavender and a bit of carrier oil to soothe bug bites. Add to your shampoo for a cleansing boost.

Which dōTERRA Products Contain Citronella?

Citronella is found in three dōTERRA blends:
  • Forgive
  • Purify
  • TerraShield
⬇️ Check Out More Ways to Use Citronella ⬇️

Put Citronella To Work

Diffuser Blends

Emotional Healing with Citronella
Citronella is the oil of averting. It is a good oil to use when you need to avert the unwanted, release what is not serving you, or repel what is harmful to you. Citronella helps you to be discerning of what is good, as well as forgiving.


Use Citronella when you feel irritated, judgemental, invaded or overrun, or when you feel stagnant or unable to properly discern. Citronella helps to break the energetic cycle of irritation and release the need to feel annoyed and preyed upon.

Inhale from the bottle, diffuse it, or place a drop in your hands and inhale. To use Citronella topically, dilute 1 drop and apply on the bottom of the feet.  

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