Sitronella’s Health Benefits Supported By Research
Citronella oil has been a popular research topic in recent years. Studies have found that it has interesting effects in the treatment of certain infections and skin problems. Some people even claim that it can help with weight loss, digestive problems, and fading bruises. Want to know more about the health benefits of citronella? Well, keep reading!
Citronella is obtained from an Asian plant that comes from the genus Cymbopogon . It is also known as “lemongrass” because its aroma is similar to the aroma of citrus fruits. This plant can grow up to a meter and a half in height and is easily recognizable by its striped green leaves.
The health benefits of citronella: what does science say?
A review published in Current Drug Discover Technologies highlights the therapeutic potential of citronella oil. More specifically, it states that citronella contains various components that give it antioxidant, antimicrobial and curative effects.
Sitronella is particularly known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, and for example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes that it is both effective and non-toxic to humans and the environment. However, the health benefits of Sitronella do not end there, but other uses have been found for it. Let’s see which of them are supported by scientific research.
Insect repellent
It is no coincidence that one of the best known benefits of citronella is its use as an insect repellent. Studies have shown that it can indeed prevent mosquito bites.
A study published in Tropical Medicine & International Health found that citronella oil, combined with an organic compound derived from the vanilla plant, vanilla, protects us from mosquitoes for up to three hours.
Heals wounds
One known benefit of citronella oil is the healing of skin damage. It is often recommended, for example, for patients with diabetic neuropathy whose injuries are quite difficult to heal. A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology reported findings on how this essential oil can accelerate wound healing.
In particular, the studies found that citronella had interesting effects in healing wounds infected with Candida yeast in mice with diabetes. In general, the researchers concluded that citronella has antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.
Weight loss
As such, citronella essential oil is not a panacea for weight loss, but it can help people in their efforts to lose weight. A study published in the journal Nutrients found that inhaling citronella oil reduces appetite, which can help you eat healthier amounts of food and thus control weight in the long run.
Other health benefits of citronella
Citronella oil is also used in aromatherapy for therapeutic reasons. Note, however, that this type of use is, at least not yet, strongly supported by research. In any case, anecdotal evidence suggests that we can use citronella to supplement some treatments, including:
- Abdominal cramps and stress-induced gastritis
- Rheumatic pains such as those caused by arthritis
- Muscle pain
- Tension headache and migraine
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue and stress
The use and dosage of citronella oil will vary depending on the purpose for which you intend to use it. When used as a mosquito poison, it is advisable to soak it in 10-15 drops in 3 deciliters of water. This can also be put in a diffuser so that the scent spreads evenly around the room or home.
One great way to apply citronella to the skin is to mix it with 15 drops to 3 deciliters of body fat or massage oil (e.g. coconut, olive or jojoba oil), and massage the fat or oil slowly onto the skin in a circular motion.
Are you ready to try citronella?
