Does Citronella Oil Really Repel Mosquitoes?
The natural and efficient essential oil citronella is frequently used to repel insects. It is a herb mixture that is used as a component of several insect repellents. Citronella candles can offer up to 50% more protection when used outside.
How do you use citronella oil as mosquito repellent?
For effective protection, apply a few drops of citronella oil to your skin and evenly distribute it over the troublesome areas. You should reapply the citronella oil every four hours for the most effective mosquito-repelling results.
Top 6 Benefits of Citronella Oil
Citronella has been used for a number of things for ages, including
- As a spray for insects
- As a fungicidal substance
- To combat parasite diseases
- Facilitate the healing of wounds
- To improve mood or combat weariness
- In culinary flavorings or as an ingredient in perfumes
But is this use supported by scientific research? There is some evidence that citronella oil does offer certain health advantages, while research into citronella and other essential oils is still ongoing.
Let's delve further into what the research has so far shown.
Pest deterrent: For citronella to work as a mosquito repellent, it must be reapplied frequently. If mixed with vanillin, it could offer protection for up to three hours. It is not as effective at repelling mosquitoes as DEET, according to studies.
Anti-fungal medication: An efficient antifungal agent appears to be citronella oil. To keep fungal infections under control, it could occasionally need to be used again every day.
It also possesses antibacterial qualities, but they are not as strong as some other essential oils in terms of eliminating a wide variety of bacteria and germs.
Wound recovery: The anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal effects of citronella oil may aid in accelerating wound healing. To ascertain its efficacy, more research on humans is necessary as there hasn't been much done in this field.
Loss of weight: Inhaling citronella led to weight loss and lower cholesterol levels in rats, according to a small body study. To find out how successful it is for human weight loss, more research must be done.
Effects of inhaling on the body: Citronella may have a calming or energizing effect on different people depending on how much is inhaled.
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Can You Put Citronella Oil Directly on Your Skin?
Citronella oil needs to be diluted 1:1 with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before being applied to the skin. You can either rub the mixture into your skin or mist your clothes and hair with it. Also, you can incorporate a few drops of citronella essential oil into your body wash, shampoo, soap, or bath.
Is citronella harmful to humans?
The only issue is skin sensitivity. The EPA mandates proper precautionary labeling because some goods are applied to human skin, helping to ensure safe use. Citronella is therefore not anticipated to provide health concerns to anybody, particularly children and other vulnerable populations when used as directed on the label.
