Citronellol, or dihydrogeraniol, is a natural acyclic monoterpenoid. Both enantiomers occur in nature.
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Uses
Citronellol is used in perfumes and insect repellents, and as a mite attractant. Citronellol is a good mosquito repellent at short distances, but protection greatly lessens when the subject is slightly further from the source. When complexed with β-cyclodextrin, it has on average a 1.5 hour protection duration against mosquitoes.
Citronellol is used as a raw material for the production of rose oxide.
Benefits
Antibacterial: Components like methyl isoeugenol and a few others that are found in this essential oil are responsible for this property. They kill bacteria and inhibit any further bacterial growth in the body. This is particularly helpful in treating infections in wounds, as well as in the colon, urethra, urinary bladder, stomach, intestines, urinary tracts, prostate and kidneys.
Antidepressant: This oil fights depression and gives relief from anxiety, sadness, and negative feelings. It induces a fresh, happy feeling and hope.
Antiseptic: The antiseptic properties of this essential oil fight infections in wounds, as well as the urinary tracts, urethra, prostate and kidneys, while simultaneously protecting them from being sepsis.
Antispasmodic: It relieves spasms of the muscles, respiratory system and nervous system. It also helps to cure menstrual spasms and gives relief from symptoms such as cramps and coughs.
Anti-inflammatory:Citronella essential oil sedates inflammation, particularly those situations which pertain to the liver, stomach, intestines and other parts of the digestive system. The inflammations caused as side effects of drugs, excessive use of alcohol or narcotics, hard & spicy food, any disease, or any toxic element getting into the body can also be soothed using this oil.
Deodorant: The crisp, rich citrus or lemon-like aroma of this oil drives away body odor and is used in deodorants and body sprays, although in very small quantities, since in heavy doses it may create skin irritations. It can also be mixed with bath water to have a refreshing, body odor-ending bath.
Diaphoretic: The diaphoretic properties of this essential oil increase sweating and promote the removal of toxins and other unwanted materials like excess water, fat and salts from the body. This makes the body feel lighter, keeps the skin healthy and also reduces fever. This also protects you from certain infections.
Diuretic: The increase in the frequency and quantity of urination due to this property of citronella essential oil has many benefits. It disposes of waste substances and toxins from the body, including uric acid, excess bile, acids, and salts, as well as water and fats. This helps reduce weight, eliminate infections in the urinary system, free the body from toxins, reduce chances of renal calculi, rheumatism and arthritis, improve digestion, and keep the heart healthy.
Cautions
The United States FDA considers citronellol as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use. Citronellol is subject to restrictions on its use in perfumery, as some people may become sensitised to it, but the degree to which citronellol can cause an allergic reaction in humans is disputed
Interactions
- None are recorded
Other names
dihydrogeraniol
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citronellol
Organic Facts, https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-citronella-essential-oil.html