Lemongrass oil is a highly concentrated botanical extract derived from the lemongrass plant. This pale-yellow oil is produced through the steam distillation of the plant’s grassy parts, capturing its distinct, intensely citrusy fragrance. The oil’s characteristic scent and many of its benefits stem from its high content of the chemical compound citral, which can account for up to 85% of its composition. Lemongrass oil is popular in natural wellness routines, valued for its aromatic qualities in home environments and its use in personal care applications, including aromatherapy, natural cleaning products, and cosmetic formulations.
Safe Preparation and Dilution Guidelines
Lemongrass oil must always be diluted before being applied to the skin, as it can cause irritation or sensitization if used undiluted. For general adult use, a dilution of 1% to 2% is standard, which equates to approximately 6 to 12 drops of lemongrass oil per one ounce (30 ml) of carrier oil.
When creating a topical blend, choose a suitable carrier oil. These plant-based oils dilute the essential oil concentration while helping to carry it safely into the skin. For facial applications or sensitive skin, use a lower concentration, such as a 0.5% to 1% dilution.
Choosing Carrier Oils
Suitable carrier oils for dilution include:
- Fractionated coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Grapeseed oil
Before applying any newly created blend to a large area of the body, a patch test is highly recommended to check for an adverse reaction. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to a discreet, non-sensitive area of skin, such as the inner forearm. Observing the area for 24 hours ensures there is no adverse reaction before widespread use.
Aromatic and Environmental Applications
Using lemongrass oil aromatically is a popular method for improving a space without direct skin contact. Diffusing the oil into the air can help create a bright, fresh atmosphere. For maximum benefit and to avoid overwhelming the senses, use a diffuser in intermittent cycles, such as 30 to 60 minutes on, followed by 30 to 60 minutes off.
The oil’s potent scent and high citral content make it an excellent natural choice for household applications and odor neutralization. A simple room or linen spray can be created by mixing the oil with distilled water and a dispersing agent like witch hazel or high-proof alcohol. This mixture can be lightly misted over fabrics or used to freshen the air.
Lemongrass oil is also widely used as a natural insect deterrent, effective against mosquitoes and flies, due to compounds like geraniol and citronellal. For outdoor use, a stronger concentration can be diffused on a patio or porch to create a scented barrier. The homemade spray mixture can also be applied to surfaces, such as outdoor furniture or clothing, to help keep pests at bay.
Topical Application Methods
Once properly diluted, lemongrass oil can be applied topically to address specific therapeutic or cosmetic needs. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic qualities make it a popular addition to massage blends intended to soothe sore muscles and stiff joints. A diluted oil can be gently massaged into areas of discomfort to help promote circulation and ease tension.
For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, the oil’s astringent and antimicrobial properties can be beneficial when used in a highly diluted formula. It can be applied as a spot treatment or incorporated into a face oil blend to help cleanse pores and reduce redness. Careful attention to the low dilution ratio is required to avoid skin irritation.
The oil can also be incorporated into hair care routines to promote a healthy scalp environment. A few drops may be blended into a standard shampoo or conditioner to help manage issues like flakiness or an itchy scalp. Adding a few drops of the diluted oil to a warm foot bath is a simple way to use its cleansing properties for foot health and odor control.
Important Safety Considerations and Contraindications
Even with proper dilution, lemongrass oil is known to be a skin sensitizer for some individuals, especially with repeated or high-concentration use. If a warming or tingling sensation is felt after application, the area should be immediately rinsed and a greater amount of carrier oil applied to dilute the concentration further. The oil should never be applied near the eyes, mucous membranes, or on broken or irritated skin.
Although steam-distilled lemongrass oil is generally not phototoxic, caution should be taken to avoid sun exposure immediately following topical application. Avoid applying the oil to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 12 hours. Certain populations should avoid or severely limit the use of this oil, including pregnant or nursing individuals, and young children.
Lemongrass essential oil should never be ingested unless under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. The concentrated nature of the oil can be toxic and may cause severe irritation or damage to the gastrointestinal tract and mucous membranes. Always store the bottle securely away from children and pets to prevent accidental poisoning.