Citronella Oil: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

Citronella oil is a natural essential oil‌ people use to repel mosquitoes and freshen the air. It comes from lemongrass-like plants (look for Latin names Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus). You’ll see it in sprays, candles, diffusers, and DIY blends. It works best as a short-term, natural option for outdoor time and around the house.

How to use citronella oil safely

Never use undiluted citronella directly on skin. For adults, mix a 1–3% dilution in a carrier oil (that’s about 6–18 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce / 30 ml of carrier oil). Do a patch test: apply a small drop to your forearm and wait 24 hours to check for irritation.

For a quick spray: add 10–15 drops of citronella to 100 ml of water with a teaspoon of witch hazel or vodka as an emulsifier, shake before use, and spray around clothing or outdoor seating—avoid spraying directly on the face.

For diffusers or candles, follow the product directions. Citronella candles help mask scents and reduce bugs in small areas, but they don’t give full protection like repellent on skin or treated clothing.

Keep citronella away from eyes, broken skin, and sensitive areas. If you feel breathing trouble, headache, or strong irritation after using it, stop and move to fresh air. Seek medical help for severe reactions.

Practical tips, blends, and safety notes

Mix citronella with other gentle oils for better scent and bug control. Good combos: citronella + lavender (calming scent), or citronella + eucalyptus (stronger repellent). For a simple roll-on, mix 8–12 drops of citronella with 10 ml of carrier oil in a roll-on bottle.

Special care for kids and pets: children under 2 should not get essential oils on their skin. Use very low dilutions for older kids and keep oils away from cats—many essential oils can be toxic to cats if ingested or applied to fur.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on regular medication, check with your healthcare provider before using citronella. It’s generally safe for short-term use, but everyone reacts differently.

Store bottles in a cool, dark place and use within a year for best scent and strength. Choose oils labeled 100% pure essential oil and check the botanical name and country of origin on the label. Cheap, blended products often contain additives that reduce effectiveness.

Citronella oil is handy for short outdoor visits and to freshen spaces. If you need long-lasting protection in high-risk areas for mosquito-borne illness, pair citronella with proven repellents (like DEET or picaridin) recommended by health authorities.

Want recipes or product picks? I can share a few easy DIY blends and budget-friendly buying tips based on what you plan to use it for—outdoor parties, a bedroom diffuser, or a travel roll-on.