The term “lemongrass” refers to two distinct botanical species in the Poaceae family, each with different chemical profiles and uses. Cymbopogon nardus (Java lemongrass, Puressentiel Organic Essential Oil) is rich in citronellal (30–45%) and geraniol—its powerful lemony-camphor scent makes it the go-to essential oil for repelling insects. Cymbopogon flexuosus (Ceylon lemongrass, IPHYM herbal shop) is richer in citral (70–80%)—its fruity, lemony profile is better suited for infusions and herbal teas. Aromatherapeutic mosquito repellents primarily use C. nardus (citronellal + geraniol), which confuses mosquitoes’ olfactory receptors.
Citronella essential oil is the most widely used natural insect repellent—its effectiveness against the tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) is well-documented but limited in duration (30 to 60 minutes of protection) compared to DEET or icaridin-based repellents (2 to 6 hours). The Ladrôme Repellent Roll-On (citronella + geranium + lavender) is formulated for topical application to exposed skin—avoid use on the face and mucous membranes. Dr. Valnet’s Volarome is designed for use as a repellent diffuser in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. Citronella essential oil must always be diluted in a vegetable oil (1–3% maximum)—when used undiluted, it can cause irritation and sensitization. Ylang-ylang is often combined with lemongrass in summer diffuser blends because of its soothing floral profile, which balances the sharp scent of lemongrass.
Dried lemongrass leaves and tea bags (Pukka Lemongrass & Ginger, Yogi Tea) are used as herbal teas for their digestive, carminative, and mildly relaxing properties—the citrals in lemongrass exert a gentle antispasmodic effect on the digestive tract. The lemongrass and ginger combination (Pukka) is a classic blend for difficult digestion and bloating—ginger provides a prokinetic effect, while lemongrass offers a carminative effect. Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is often confused with lemongrass due to their similar scent profiles—their use in digestive herbal teas is complementary. These teas are best enjoyed after meals (1 to 2 cups), as part of a treatment lasting no more than 3 weeks.
When diffused into the air, lemongrass combines three effects: insect repellent, air purifier, and energizer. It can be used in an ultrasonic diffuser or nebulizer (5 to 10 drops, 20–30 minutes, 2–3 times a day)—alone or in combination with geranium, lavender, or lemon eucalyptus. Citronella essential oil is photosensitizing—avoid sun exposure for 6 to 8 hours after applying it to the skin. Diffusing jasmine complements lemongrass on summer evenings—its intense floral profile creates an exotic and soothing atmosphere while balancing the lively quality of lemongrass.
Before using lemongrass essential oil, it is essential to be aware of the following precautions:
Exotic basil shares the same contraindications as lemongrass for pregnant women and young children—both essential oils should be used with the same caution.
Confusion is common—these two plants belong to the same genus (Cymbopogon) but have distinct uses. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is the culinary herb used in Asian cuisine (soups, curries). Citronella (C. nardus or C. flexuosus) is used in aromatherapy, as an insect repellent, and in herbal teas—not in cooking due to its citronellal content (which is bitter in high doses). Yogi Tea’s lemon-ginger teas often contain lemongrass—which should be distinguished from pure citronella herbal teas. Greenanise tea is a complementary remedy for difficult digestion with bloating—the two plants exert a synergistic carminative effect.
