Citronella in Herbal Medicine: Citronella Properties

Scientific name

Family

Origin

Used Parts

Chemical constituents

• Essential oil rich in citronellal and geraniol

Citronella in Herbal Medicine: Citronella Properties

Numerous and varied therapeutic properties are ascribed to lemongrass. However, the plant is used more than anything else for its repellent action against insects, especially mosquitoes.

Furthermore, citronella is also used in the cosmetic industry (for more detailed information on this, see the article on "Citronellol in cosmetics").

Biological activity

Although the use of citronella has not been approved for any type of therapeutic indication, this plant has various properties.

More in detail, citronella is given anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, decongestant, sedative and astringent properties.

The aforementioned activities are mainly attributable to the essential oil obtained from the plant.

Several studies have been conducted on lemongrass to investigate the actual properties and the real therapeutic efficacy.

Some research has shown that sedative activity and analgesic activity are exercised by the plant only when large quantities of essential oil are taken; while taking decoctions prepared from citronella leaves does not generate therapeutic effects.

Still other studies have confirmed the antiseptic activity traditionally ascribed to citronella. More precisely, this action is exerted by the nerale and the hieranial contained in the essential oil of the plant. In detail, from these studies it emerged that the aforementioned oil exerts its antibacterial action against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive microorganisms; furthermore, the essential oil showed an interesting bactericidal activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis strains.

Research conducted on animals, on the other hand, has shown that the decoction of citronella leaves has a certain anti-inflammatory activity, although this activity is decidedly mild compared to that performed by a common NSAID such as indomethacin.

Another in vitro study, on the other hand, has shown that citronella essential oil also has antifungal properties and has proved particularly effective in inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans .

Citronella in folk medicine and homeopathy

In folk medicine, citronella is used externally for the treatment of rheumatic pain, lumbago, neuralgia and sprains; as well as being used as a mild astringent remedy.

Internally, however, citronella is used by traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal symptoms and as a remedy to counteract agitation.

In Indian medicine, citronella is used in the treatment of intestinal parasites, gastric disorders, flatulence, fever, bronchitis and is even used against leprosy.

Citronella essential oil is also used in aromatherapy to fight colds, fever and headaches.

As regards homeopathic medicine, on the other hand, at the moment citronella does not find significant uses in this area.

Side effects

In sensitive subjects, following the contact of the citronella essential oil with the skin, allergic reactions may occur.

Contraindications

Do not use lemongrass in case of hypersensitivity to one or more components. Furthermore, the use of citronella should also be avoided during pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

Warnings

Citronella essential oil can cause CNS disorders, particularly on animals (birds and cats); in practice the essential oil of citronella is therefore used only externally.