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The Story of Scent: Citronella

Citronella, often referred to as Java or red lemongrass in Vietnam, originates from the tropical and humid lowlands stretching from Southern India and Sri Lanka to Southeast Asia. Citronella is relatively easy to cultivate, not picky about soil, resistant to pests and diseases, and drought-tolerant.

Citronella is frequently confused with lemongrass; both belong to the Cymbopogon genus. However, they have easily distinguishable characteristics. Citronella has reddish-purple stems and is primarily used for essential oil extraction, sterilization, and as a mosquito repellent, whereas lemongrass has greenish-white stems, is edible, and widely used in cuisine. Beyond their physical differences, each has a distinct and easily recognizable scent.

The scent of citronella evokes a cool, green meadow under bright sunlight. It offers a harmonious blend of fresh lemongrass fragrance with a hint of warm woody notes and subtle herbal undertones. Compared to lemongrass oil, citronella oil has a sharper, more intense, and robust scent. Citronella oil brings a fresh and clean feeling, making it a popular choice for living spaces and workplaces.

Dong Thap province (in the western south of Vietnam) is blessed by nature with a mild climate and fertile alluvial soil, famous for its vast fields and lush fruit gardens. It paints a stunning and prosperous picture that everyone should visit at least once.

Dong Thap is a key region where areme produces various essential oils like green mandarin, lemongrass, and citronella. With its characteristic fragrance, easy cultivation, and low susceptibility to pests and diseases, citronella has long been an integral part of life in Dong Thap. The fresh scent of citronella not only soothes the tropical heat but also brings a sense of relaxation and peace.

areme’s citronella ingredients are grown naturally, with nutrients supplied to the plants from compost made from the residue of distilled green mandarin oil. The oil is extracted from the leaves of the citronella plant through steam distillation, resulting in a light yellow product with a distinctive lemongrass scent and containing many beneficial active ingredients. The steam distillation method helps preserve the precious essences in the grass, offering drops of entirely natural oil—a gift from the lush, green nature of Dong Thap.

We use compost made from the residue of distilled green mandarin oil

One of the most common uses of citronella oil is as a natural insect repellent. It is effective against mosquitoes and other pests, often found in commercial repellent products. Thanks to its rich antioxidant and antibacterial properties, citronella oil helps boost the immune system and protect the body from harmful agents. The aromatic qualities of citronella can also help in reducing stress and improving mood when used in aromatherapy. It is also sometimes used in skin care products to help reduce oily skin and replenish the skin’s overall condition.

Some key benefits of citronella essential oil:

  • Prevents sweat and body odor.
  • Antibacterial, useful in fighting colds and flu.
  • Reduces stress and tension.
  • Enhances mood, soothes negative emotions, and supports deep sleep.
  • Repels mosquitoes.

SHOP CITRONELLA ESSENTIAL OIL

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