Cymbopogon nardus herb oil, commonly known as citronella oil, is derived from the herbs of the plant Cymbopogon nardus (L.), also known as Andropogon nardus, belonging to the Gramineae family. This essential oil is available in two main variants, each with a distinct chemical profile:

Ceylon Citronella
Java Citronella

Chemical Composition

Ceylon Citronella:
Geraniol: Approximately 60%. Contributes a sweet, floral aroma and may have antimicrobial properties.
Citronellal: About 15%. Provides a lemony scent.
Camphene, Limonene, Linalool, Borneol: These components add additional aromatic notes and potential therapeutic benefits.

Java Citronella:
Citronellal: 25-50%. Mainly used for its repellent properties.
Geraniol: 25-45%. Adds a floral aroma and may have antibacterial properties.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Clear liquid, ranging from pale yellow to amber.
Odor: Fresh, lemony fragrance.
Consistency: Light and non-greasy.
Solubility: Insoluble in water, but miscible with oils and organic solvents.

Production Process

Harvesting and Preparation: The Cymbopogon nardus herbs are harvested and prepared for extraction.
Extraction: Essential oil is obtained through steam distillation, where steam extracts the oils from the plant material.
Purification: Filtration is performed to remove any residual particles and ensure purity.

Applications

Cosmetics: Used in lotions, creams, and shampoos for its fragrance and antimicrobial properties.
Aromatherapy: Employed in diffusers and essential oil blends for its refreshing scent and purported repellent effects.
Insect Repellents: Effective against mosquitoes and other insects.
Cleaning Products: Added to cleaners and sprays for its fragrance and antibacterial properties.

Safety

The essential oil of Cymbopogon nardus is generally considered safe for external use but may cause irritation in some individuals. It is advisable to follow usage guidelines and avoid direct contact with eyes.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Sustainability: Sustainable harvesting practices are essential to preserve the plant and its environment.
Regulation: Must comply with cosmetic and personal care product regulations to ensure safety and effectiveness.

INCI:


Perfuming. Unlike fragrance, which can also contain slightly less pleasant or characteristic odours, the term perfume indicates only very pleasant fragrances. Used for perfumes and aromatic raw materials.
Synonyms:

CAS: 8000-29-1 89998-15-2 EC number 289-753-6 289-753-6