What is Citronella? Understanding the Two Plants
Many people confuse citronella grass with lemongrass due to their similar lemon-like scent, but they are distinct plants with different uses and edibility profiles. The term "citronella" typically refers to the oil derived from specific species of Cymbopogon grass, primarily Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus. The oil from these plants is famously used for its insect-repelling properties in candles, sprays, and lotions. However, these plants are generally considered unpalatable and inedible for humans.
Conversely, lemongrass, or Cymbopogon citratus, is a widely-used culinary herb in many Southeast Asian cuisines. It is used to flavor teas, soups, curries, and marinades and is considered safe for consumption in standard food quantities. This critical difference is the source of most confusion regarding citronella's edibility.
The Dangers of Ingesting Citronella Essential Oil
Consuming concentrated citronella essential oil is not safe and can be toxic. The oil is not meant for internal use and can cause serious health complications, particularly if aspirated or ingested in significant amounts. Poisoning cases have been reported, especially in children, after accidental ingestion of insect repellent products containing citronella oil. Dangers associated with ingestion include:
- Gastrointestinal Distress: Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are common after ingestion.
- Respiratory Problems: Aspiration of the oil, which can occur during vomiting, can cause chemical pneumonitis and serious lung damage.
- Central Nervous System Effects: In larger doses, essential oil poisoning can lead to more severe symptoms, such as drowsiness, convulsions, and poor ventilatory drive.
- Children and Sensitive Individuals: The risks are magnified for children, pregnant women, and individuals with certain health conditions. Due to the high risk, citronella oil should be kept out of reach of children and avoided during pregnancy.
Citronella vs. Lemongrass: A Comparative Look
To help clarify the differences, here is a comparison of the two related, but distinct, plants:
| Feature | Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus) | Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Broader leaves, often with reddish or magenta coloration at the base of the stems. | Narrower, green leaves and stems. |
| Edibility | Inedible. Not suitable for human consumption. | Edible. Widely used in cooking and herbal teas. |
| Primary Use | Source of essential oil for insect repellents, fragrances, and aromatherapy. | Culinary herb for flavoring food, tea, and sauces. |
| Toxicity | Essential oil is toxic if ingested, especially in concentrated form. | Generally safe for consumption in food quantities; essential oil is still potent and should be used with care. |
Food Flavoring vs. Toxic Concentration
There is a specific, food-grade version of citronella oil that has been placed on the United States Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) list of substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a food additive. This is a key point that adds to the confusion surrounding consumption. However, the concentration used in food flavoring is incredibly small, far below the levels found in essential oils used for insect repellents or aromatherapy. Health Canada has also evaluated citronella oil as a flavoring agent and concluded that its use does not present a safety concern at low levels. This does not mean it is safe to consume the standard essential oil or the raw plant.
Safe Uses for Citronella
Given the risks associated with internal consumption, the safest applications for citronella focus on external and aromatic uses:
- Topical Insect Repellent: Citronella oil is widely used in diluted forms in lotions, sprays, and balms to repel insects like mosquitoes. Always dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to prevent skin irritation.
- Aromatherapy: Diffusing citronella essential oil can uplift mood, relieve stress, and freshen the air in a well-ventilated space. It is important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid lung irritation.
- Natural Cleaning: The oil's natural antibacterial and antifungal properties make it useful in homemade cleaning solutions for disinfecting surfaces and deodorizing your home.
Prioritize Safety with Citronella
In conclusion, while the pleasant, citrusy aroma of citronella may be appealing, it is crucial to remember that its edibility depends entirely on its form and species. Citronella grass is inedible, and the concentrated essential oil is toxic if ingested. The only approved internal use is for very minute, controlled quantities of highly purified, food-grade oil used as a flavoring agent in commercial products. For home use, always treat citronella essential oil as a topical or aromatic product, and if you are interested in a culinary lemon-scented herb, opt for lemongrass. Always store citronella products safely away from children and consult a healthcare professional or a poison control center if accidental ingestion occurs.
For more safety information on citronella essential oil, you can visit the WebMD page on Citronella Oil.
Key Safety Takeaways
- Citronella vs. Lemongrass: Citronella grass, used for essential oil production, is inedible, while lemongrass is a safe culinary herb.
- Essential Oil Dangers: Concentrated citronella essential oil is toxic if ingested and can cause severe lung and gastrointestinal damage.
- Risk to Children: Accidental ingestion of citronella-based insect repellents has led to poisoning in children and should be treated seriously.
- Food Grade vs. Topical: Only minute, regulated quantities of highly diluted, food-grade oil are deemed safe for flavoring, a far cry from the concentrated essential oil.
- Proper Use: Safe applications are restricted to external use (properly diluted for skin) and aromatherapy in well-ventilated spaces.
- Professional Guidance: If concerned about potential ingestion or health risks, contact a healthcare provider or poison control center immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is it safe to make a tea from citronella grass leaves? Answer: No, it is not recommended to make tea from citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) leaves. The plant is considered inedible and can be unpalatable and potentially harmful if consumed. Stick to culinary lemongrass for tea.
Question: What should I do if my child ingests citronella oil? Answer: If your child has ingested citronella oil, contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. Do not induce vomiting, as this increases the risk of lung damage from aspiration.
Question: Can I use citronella essential oil in my food or drinks? Answer: No, you should never use concentrated citronella essential oil in food or drinks. Only highly diluted, food-grade citronella oil, which is a different product, is approved for use in specific commercial flavorings.
Question: How can I tell the difference between citronella and lemongrass? Answer: Citronella grass typically has broader leaves with reddish or magenta stems at the base, and a stronger, more pungent scent. Lemongrass has narrower, all-green leaves and a sweeter, more subtle citrus aroma, and is sold in the produce section of grocery stores.
Question: Are citronella candles and diffusers safe to use indoors? Answer: Citronella candles and diffusers are generally safe to use indoors as long as the area is well-ventilated. Proper airflow is important to prevent irritation from inhaling the oil, and use caution around children and pets.
Question: Is citronella toxic to pets? Answer: Yes, citronella can be toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, if ingested. Ingestion of citronella oil can cause stomach upset, and contact with the skin can cause irritation. Pet owners should use citronella products with caution and keep them out of reach.
Question: What are the key differences in properties between citronella and lemongrass essential oils? Answer: While both have insect-repelling properties, citronella oil is more robustly scented and primarily known as a repellent. Lemongrass oil is prized for its more gentle aroma, as well as its therapeutic and skin benefits in aromatherapy and topical applications.
