CITRONELLA OIL Cymbopogon Nardus
Citronella oil is one of the essential oils obtained from different species of Cymbopogon. The oil is 
used extensively as a source of perfumery chemicals such as citronellal, citronellol and geraniol. These chemicals find extensive use in soap, perfumery,cosmetic and flavouring industries throughout the world.
| Botanical Name | Cymbopogon Nardus |
| Source | Citronella oil is obtained by steam distillation of partially wilted leaves of "cymbopogon winterianus jowitt" |
| Color | colour light yellow |
| Specific Gravity | 0.8820 to 0.8875 at 23ºc |
| Optical Rotation | (-) 2º to (-) 4º at 23ºc |
| Referactive Index | 1.4750 to 1.4885 at 23ºc |
| Solubility | soluble in 0.8 to 1.5 vol. of 80% alcohol |
Oil of Citronella has been used for over 50 years as an insect repellent and as an animal repellent. It is found in many familiar insect repellent products: candles, lotions, gels, sprays and towelette wipes for use on clothing and people. These products repel various insects, some of which are public health pests, such as mosquitoes, biting flies and fleas. When used according to the label, citronella products are not expected to cause harm to humans, pets or the environment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Oil of Citronella is a volatile, liquid oil derived from dried cultivated grasses. It works by repelling animals and insects without harming or killing them. It has a distinctive odor, which repels certain animals.
II. USE SITES, TARGET PESTS, AND APPLICATION METHODS
Use Sites: Oil of Citronella is used on humans and their clothing to repel insects. In tablet or pellet form it is also used in recreational areas, outdoor household areas, and around trees and shrubs. Animal collars and tags containing citronella are used on pets and other domestic animals to repel fleas and ticks.
Target pests: Repels various specific insects including mosquitoes, black flies, fleas, and ticks.
Application Methods: Products containing Oil of Citronella are applied in various ways:
1. Liquid products are sprayed or applied by hand (cloth wipe-on) on skin or clothing.
2. Citronella is also used in solid products such as candles, cartridges, and rub-on products.
3. It is used in flea collars for cats and dogs.
