The year 2021 has seen noticeable improvements in how we deal with the current pandemic situation. From enforcing strict COVID-19 restrictions to rolling out vaccinations islandwide, Singapore has been doing a good job in keeping the citizens safe from the pandemic. However, an arguably more deadly disease that has always been endemic on our shores since the start continues to loom over our heads and this is none other than dengue.
Dengue cases have been on the rise in Singapore, with over 2,700 cases being reported since the start of this year. This number is also expected to rise due to the growth in the Aedes aegypti mosquito population in recent months [1].
As the weather temperature continues to increase, so does the number of mosquitoes breeding and maturing in our backyards. There are certain steps we can take to protect our homes from mosquitoes, such as installing nets or diffusing insect-repelling scents indoors. However, they have their limitations especially if you and your family members are constantly on the go.
Here is how the plant-based Citronella Oil can help.
What is Citronella Oil?
Citronella Oil is an essential oil derived from a species of Cymbopogon Nardus leaves – lemongrass and is usually used in food and cosmetics. Citronella Oil is also a widely used natural insect repellent. The oil can be found in a variety of mosquito repellent products such as candles, sprays and lotions.
How Does Citronella Oil Work?
When Citronella Oil is applied to the skin or clothing, it repels mosquitoes by masking carbon dioxide and lactic acid scents that mosquitoes are usually attracted to. This makes it difficult for the insects to locate people and in turn their source of food. According to research, the oil is even effective in repelling the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the common carrier of the dengue virus [2].
Citronella Oil can also be used to treat areas of the skin affected by insect bites. It soothes the insect bite, providing quick relief for itchiness and swelling. With its variety of uses, Citronella Oil is considered safe and non-toxic to humans and animals.
How to Use Citronella Oil
For Citronella Oil to work effectively as a mosquito repellent, it has to be reapplied every few hours or so. Eagle Brand’s Citronella Oil is packaged in a condensed 30ml or 60ml plastic bottle that makes it convenient to be carried in your bag when you are outside and in the presence of mosquitoes.
Apply a few drops of Citronella Oil to your skin and spread it out evenly over the affected areas for good protection. For maximum mosquito repelling effect, you should reapply the Citronella Oil every four hours.
Other Benefits of Citronella Oil
Besides its popular use as a mosquito repellent, Citronella Oil can treat a variety of ailments.
1. Manage inflammation and pain
Like other essential oils, Citronella Oil has antioxidant properties that fight against free radical damage that cause cellular damage [3]. When absorbed by the skin over the affected areas of the body, they help improve the flow of blood which can provide pain and itch relief.
2. Relax muscles
Due to its ability to improve blood flow, Citronella Oil can also be used as a massage treatment for the muscles. It can help treat aches, pain and cramps by relaxing contracted muscles and improving the circulation of blood to these muscles [4].
3. Relieves stress
Citronella Oil has a pleasant grassy and lemony scent. It is widely used in aromatherapy to uplift mood and relax the body and mind. Eagle Brand’s Citronella Oil also comes in a 60ml glass bottle that can be used as a reed diffuser by inserting reed sticks into the opening. Alternatively, it can be used as an essential oil to treat anxiety and stress.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones with Eagle Brand’s Citronella Oil Today
Eagle Brand’s Citronella Oil contains 100% Natural Citronella Oil that repels mosquitoes effectively. No DEET, No Alcohol, they are safe for topical application. Try this natural mosquito repellent that is non-toxic and non-greasy with various beneficial properties today.
References:
[1] Tan, C. (2021, June 1). Rise in S’PORE dengue CASES expected as mosquito population grows by 30%. The Straits Times. Retrieved September 13, 2021, from https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/rise-in-spore-dengue-cases-expected-as-mosquito-population-grows-by-30-per-cent.
[2] Hsu WS, Yen JH, Wang YS. Formulas of components of citronella oil against mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti). J Environ Sci Health B. 2013;48(11):1014-9. doi: 10.1080/03601234.2013.816613. PMID: 23998314.
[3] Rastuti, U., Diastuti, H., Chasani, M., Purwati, & Hidayatullah, R. (2020). Chemical composition and antioxidant activities OF citronella essential oil Cymbopogon Nardus (L.) Rendle fractions. THE 14TH JOINT CONFERENCE ON CHEMISTRY 2019, 2237(1). https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0005685
[4] Devi, B.V. & Devi, Gayatri & Priya, A.J.. (2018). Effect of lemongrass oil on body pain. Drug Invention Today. 10. 2076-2078.