Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus, Cymbopogon winterianus)

Other names: Citronella java, Citronella ceylonensis, Citronella, Bearded, Andropogon nardus, Nardus

Citronella just also known as Citronella java, Citronella ceylon, Citronella, beard grass, Andropogon nardus, beard grass is a species of grass that is native to South Asia and is now cultivated in many parts of the world. It is scientifically referred to as Cymbopogon Nardus or Cymbopogon Winterianus. It is a perennial plant growing up to two metres tall. Its leaves are long, thin, sharp and smell intensely of lemon, which led to its name.

Citronella is best known for its fragrant and repellent properties. Its essential oil is often used in candles, soaps, scented lamps and many other commercial products. In addition, it is often included in many mosquito and other flying insect repellents due to its ability to repel them. But its use is not limited to these industries. Citronella is also used in the home, for example, in the form of aromatherapy oils used to purify the air and stimulate good mood. In medicine, it is used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.