Forums HomeGrown Herbalist Student Forum Herbal Medicine Making Citronella plant salve

Viewing 1 reply thread
  • Author
    Posts
    • #16932
      Lisa Duff
      Student

        We live in the deep south with an abundance of mosquitoes…pretty sure it’s our state bird. I have citronella plants growing this year. Can I dry these leaves (or use fresh) and make them into a salve for bug repellent? Is there a better plant to use? My quick google search said it’s toxic but I can find any information about citronella in my very small library of herb books yet. Plan would be to use on kids as well. Thanks so much!!!

      • #16939
        Dr. Patrick Jones
        Homestead Instructor

          Citronella is safe for use topically according to the FDA and EPA.

          I’ve never made a bug repellant lotion. Seems like it’d work.

          I’ve always used a more neanderthal method of just grabbing a handful of lemon balm or whatever other aromatic mint I happen to be close to and grinding up the leaves in my hands and rubbing them on me. :0)

          Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

          1 user thanked author for this post.
      Viewing 1 reply thread
      • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
      Scroll to Top