Citronella (Java) vs Clary Sage
Citronella (Java) and Clary Sage are both herbaceous essential oils. Citronella (Java) carries a top note (fresh, citrus), while Clary Sage sits as a heart note (soft, herbal). For topical use, keep Citronella (Java) at or below 18% and Clary Sage at 5%.
| Attribute | Citronella (Java) | Clary Sage |
|---|---|---|
| Latin name | Cymbopogon winterianus | Salvia sclarea |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous | Herbaceous |
| Perfumery note | Top | Heart |
| Aroma | fresh, citrus, grassy | soft, herbal |
| Chemical family | Aldehyde | Ester |
| Max topical dilution | 18% | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 5% | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable (well diluted) | Not recommended |
| Children | Generally suitable (well diluted) | Generally suitable (well diluted) |
| Pets | Not recommended | Generally suitable (well diluted) |
| Extraction | Steam distillation | Steam distillation |
Work out exact drops with the dilution calculator for your bottle size.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Citronella (Java) and Clary Sage?
Citronella (Java) and Clary Sage are both herbaceous essential oils. Citronella (Java) carries a top note (fresh, citrus), while Clary Sage sits as a heart note (soft, herbal). For topical use, keep Citronella (Java) at or below 18% and Clary Sage at 5%.
Can you blend Citronella (Java) and Clary Sage together?
They can be combined, but Citronella (Java) and Clary Sage aren't a classic pairing — start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
Which is better during pregnancy, Citronella (Java) or Clary Sage?
Citronella (Java) is generally considered more suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted, whereas Clary Sage is not recommended. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.