Citronella (Java) (Cymbopogon winterianus) is a herbaceous essential oil with a fresh, citrus, grassy aroma and a top note. Steam distillation from grass, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Lemon (Cold Pressed), Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Geranium. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 18%.
Java-type citronella with higher citronellal content than Ceylon. GRAS-status insect repellent.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Top |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Aldehyde |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | grass |
| Origin | Indonesia, Sri Lanka |
| Blending factor | 6 |
| Volatility index | 2 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 1.5 |
| CAS number | 8000-29-1 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 18% |
| Max facial dilution | 5% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 months) |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Evidence: Moderate — EODB: 38 GC-MS analyses (Cymbopogon winterianus).
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.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Blends well with
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Frequently asked questions
What does Citronella (Java) essential oil smell like?
Citronella (Java) has a fresh, citrus, grassy aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a top note.
What is the safe dilution for Citronella (Java)?
For topical use, keep Citronella (Java) at or below 18%, and 5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Citronella (Java) safe to use during pregnancy?
Citronella (Java) is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Is Citronella (Java) safe to use around children?
Citronella (Java) is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Citronella (Java) 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 Citronella (Java) blend well with?
Citronella (Java) pairs well with Lemon (Cold Pressed), Eucalyptus (Peppermint/Dives), Geranium, Lavender, Peppermint.