Backyard BBQs and days at the Beach. This fun frolicking is filled with insects that love to bite our skin!
And so the citronella candles come out. Did you know that citronella essential oil can also be used in bug repellent?
Citronella is obtained from leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon, commonly known as Lemongrass. There are two different types of citronella.
Ceylon Type
Obtained from Cymbopogon nardus Rendle, the Ceylon type used to be more widely produced. It is now considered the inferior type. This type has a stronger musty vegetation scent which is not desirable for perfumery. It also has a smaller percentage of citronellal than the Java type, which is the chemical component that bugs have an aversion to.
Java Type
Obtained from Cymbopogon winterianus Jowitt, this type is superior to the Ceylon type due to a higher content of geraniol andcitronellal. This not only makes it more desirable for skin applications, but the higher content of citronellal is more effective at keeping those bugs away! The scent is much more pleasant and a great addition to our Harmony Insect Spray and new July Soap!