Cymopogon nardus

BOTANICAL NAME-         Cymopogon nardus

COMMON NAME-              Citronella Grass

FAMILY-                                    Poaceae 

DESCRIPTION-

Citronella is clump-forming tropical grass, the clump increases in size as the plant matures. The plant is a robust, stoloniferous, tufted perennial grass; about 1m tall with thin leaves having white midrib and scabrous margin. The inflorescence is a large compound panicle. Its graceful arching leaves and overall vertical form provide subtle opposition when planted near bushy or rounded shrubs and flowers. 

USES-

• The plant is the source of the commercial citronella oil, used in perfumery and as an insect repellent. Inexpensive soaps sold in Asian markets are scented with citronella oil.

• Citronella oil can be mixed with other vegetable oils and used in massage or rubbed on the skin for an insect repellent.

• The essential oils extracted from citronella grass are much used in aroma therapy as a stimulant when inhaled or rubbed on the skin, and an antiseptic that can be used to sterilize food preparation surfaces.

• It is reported that citronella oil repels cats. Inhaling the essential oils of citronella may increase heart rate in some people. Rhizome is used medicinally as a treatment for leukorrhea.