Citron (Citrus medica) is a citrus essential oil with a dry, sharp aroma and a top note. Cold press from fruit peel, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Frankincense (Carterii). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 2%.
Citron (Citrus medica) is a citrus essential oil, cold-pressed from the fruit peel, produced in Italy and France. Its aroma is dry, sharp, sitting as a top note in a blend. It's commonly paired with Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Frankincense (Carterii), Rosemary (Cineole). Keep topical use at or below 2%. It is noted for phototoxic, oxidation risk. Always patch-test first.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Top |
| Aroma family | Citrus |
| Chemical family | Monoterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Cold press |
| Plant part | fruit peel |
| Origin | Italy, France |
| Blending factor | 7 |
| Volatility index | 1 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 0.5 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 2% |
| Max facial dilution | 1% |
| Pregnancy | No specific caution recorded |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 years) |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Phototoxic limit | 2% |
Safety flags
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Work out exact drops with the dilution calculator for your bottle size.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Citron smell like?
Citron has a dry, sharp aroma, classed as a citrus oil with a top note.
What is the safe dilution for Citron?
For topical use, keep Citron at or below 2%, and 1% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Citron safe to use during pregnancy?
Our dataset records no specific pregnancy caution for Citron. That is not the same as it being established as safe — always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any essential oil during pregnancy.
Is Citron safe to use around children?
Citron is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 years old). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Citron safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Citron blend well with?
Citron pairs well with Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Frankincense (Carterii), Rosemary (Camphor ct.), Geranium.