Native to Sri Lanka, this lemon-scented grass is a close relative of lemongrass and palmarosa. The oil contains several active compounds, including borneol, citral, geraniol, limonene and citronella. The latter is best known as an insect repellent and contributes to the oil’s sweet, lemony aroma.
Although citronella essential oil is generally considered non-toxic, it may cause contact dermatitis in people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
