Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass Essential Oil is produced by steam distillation of the aerial grass of Cymbopogon flexuosus. It has a strong lemony aroma with fresh green, grassy, and slightly earthy notes and is generally considered a top-to-middle note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• Geranial: approximately 35–50%
• Neral: approximately 25–40%
• Geraniol: approximately 2–8%
• Geranyl acetate: approximately 1–5%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in deodorizing preparations, household cleaning blends, outdoor products, post-activity massage, soaps, and fresh diffusion. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for cleansing, deodorizing, stimulating, insect-deterring, and comfort-supporting properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

Citral-rich lemongrass is a strong oil. Keep routine topical use at approximately 0.5%, equal to 1 drop in 10 mL, and do not exceed about 0.7%. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

Not recommended for children under 6. For ages 6–12, use approximately 0.25–0.5%, equal to 1 drop in 10–20 mL. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

May irritate or sensitize skin. Avoid undiluted use, damaged skin, and mucous membranes. Use caution during pregnancy and with reactive skin. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.