Updated 17 January 2024

Botanical characteristics

• Kingdom: plantae
• Subphylum: tracheobionta 
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Liliopsida
• Subclass: Commelinidae 
• Order: Cyperales
• Family: Poaceae
• Genus: Cymbopogon
• Part used: Leaves, aerial parts
• Country of origin: Indonesia, Nepal

Precautions for use

Caution! Java Citronella essential oil can be used by adults, teenagers and children over 3 years of age.

It is not recommended for pregnant women or babies.

The most appropriate methods of use are atmospheric diffusion and diluted dermal application.

Other precautions

Warning:

• People with asthma should seek medical advice before use.

Cutaneous use:

• Make sure to dilute this essential oil 20% in vegetable oil before applying to the skin (20% essential oil diluted in 80% vegetable oil).

Ingestion:

• This essential oil can be used in cooking if diluted in a fat (oil, cream, yoghurt, milk) or sweetened (syrup, honey).
• It should not be taken pure.

Diffusion: 

• Air diffusion is a possible route of use for pregnant women and babies.
• In very sensitive people, this essential oil may irritate the mucous membranes and cause tearing or coughing.

Allergenic components:

Java Citronella essential oil is high in biochemical allergenic components:

• Geraniol (16-30%)
• Citronellol (7-18%)
• Limonene (1-5%)
• Citral (geranial + neral) (≤ 4%)
• Eugenol (≤ 2%)
• Linalool (≤ 1.5%)
• Farnesol (≤ 1%)

Note: It is best to test the essential oil before use (two drops on the crease of the elbow for at least 24 hours to check for a reaction).

Authorised users

 Adults and adolescents

 Children under 6 years

 Pregnant and breastfeeding women

 Infants under 3 years old

Risks of use

 Skin irritation