Oil of Citronella—A Natural Repellent

Oil of citronella (more commonly known as citronella oil) has been use for more than 50 years as a bug repellent and as an animal repellent. This oil is an ingredient in numerous common repellent forms, including gels, lotions, candles, sprays and towelette wipes.

Citronella products, which differ in effectiveness, repel numerous insects, most of which are pests, like biting flies, fleas and mosquitoes.

If used as directed, citronella products are not harmful to people, domestic pets or even the surroundings.

This oil is an unstable liquid produced from dried cultivated plants.

It simply repels. It's not an insecticide.

It features a unique smell that makes it harder for pests to find a target, and repels them if they do find a target.

The duration of this effect differs depending on the inert ingredients used in the repellent and the quantity of citronella oil in the product.

Application Methods

Use citronella wherever people congregate, such as the patio and picnic table, and close to shrubs and trees.

Items that contain oil of citronella are used in two ways:

• Liquid repellents are sprayed or dispensed manually on skin and clothes.
• Solid repellents like candles and cartridges are burned or evaporate. Solids are also available as rub-on products.
• There are also wipe-on citronella towelettes.

Dangers to Human Health

A lot of research into citronella shows minimal toxicity to humans. The sole issue is skin irritability.

Since a few products are used directly on skin, the US Environmental Protection Agency requires labeling that instructs on safe use. So, when used according to the label, citronella isn't likely to present health problems to you or your family.

Dangers to Animal Health

Research has revealed few hazards of citronella use on animals.

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