About Essential Oils

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Photo copyright Henriette Kress, http://www.ibiblio.org/herbmed

Essential Oils

Angelica Root
Anise
Bay
Bergamot
Birch
Black Pepper
Blue Hungarian Chamomile
Buchu Leaf
Cananga Java
Caraway
Cardamom
Carrot Seed
Cassia, Chinese
Cedarleaf
Cedarwood
Celery Seed
Chamomile, Roman
Cinnamon Leaf
Citronella
Clary Sage
Clove Bud
Clove Leaf
Clove Stem
Cognac
Coriander Seed
Cornmint
Cumin
Davana
Dillweed
Eucalyptus
Fennel, Sweet
Galbanum, Terpeneless
Garlic
Geranium
Ginger
Grain Fusel
Grapefruit, California
Gurjun Balsam
Jasmine
Juniper Berry
Lavandin Abrialis
Lavender, Bulgarian
Lavender, French
Lemon
Lemongrass
Lime
Mandarin Orange
Neroli Bigarade
Nutmeg
Onion
Orange
Oregano
Parsley Seed
Patchouli
Peppermint
Petitgrain
Pimento Berry
Pine
Rose, Bulgarian
Rosemary
Sage
Sandalwood
Spearmint
Tagetes
Tangerine
Tea Tree
Thyme
Vanilla
Vetiver
Wintergreen
Ylang Ylang

Citronella

cymbopogon nardus

General Description
The citronella leaves have been used for their fragrance and their value as a medicine for centuries. The Chinese use the citronella leaves more specifically for rheumatism. Other uses have included fevers, intestinal parasites, digestive and menstrual problems and is widely known for its use as an insect repellent.

How It's Made
Generally the grass is used to get the desired oil. Steam distillation of the fresh, partly dried, and wholly dried grass is used to extract the essential oil.

Aroma: Moderate hint of citrus.

Strength: Fairly Strong

Properties
Nervous System
Relieves Migraines
Relieves Fatigue
Helps with Neuralgia
General Headaches

Immune System
Battles Common Cold and Influenza

Skin
Reduces Excessive Perspiration
Acts as Insect Repellent
Helps with Oily Skin


: about : Essential Oils, © 2005