Lemongrass smells like lemon with a fresh, grassy twist. It's crisp, clean and energizing, and it's one of the most refreshing oils you can diffuse on a warm day.
What is lemongrass essential oil?
Lemongrass oil is steam-distilled from the leaves of Cymbopogon grasses, the same lemongrass used in Thai cooking. Its main compound, citral, gives it its strong lemony scent. Lemongrass is a close relative of citronella.
Benefits of lemongrass oil
1. Refreshes and energizes
Its bright, clean scent can make a room feel fresher and help you feel more awake.
2. A natural home freshener
Lemongrass is great for neutralizing odors in kitchens, bathrooms and closets, and it adds a fresh scent to homemade cleaning sprays.
3. A favorite for outdoor evenings
Because it's related to citronella, many people diffuse lemongrass on patios and porches during summer evenings.
4. Deodorizes shoes and gym bags
A drop on a cotton ball tucked into sneakers or a gym bag keeps things smelling fresh.
How to use lemongrass oil
- Diffuser: 3–4 drops.
- Cleaning spray: 10–15 drops in a spray bottle with 1 cup of water and a splash of vinegar. Shake before use.
- Linen spray: 8–10 drops in a spray bottle of water. Shake well.
- On skin: only 1–2 drops in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of carrier oil like argan oil. See the safety tips below.
Lemongrass blends well with
Lavender, ginger, basil, eucalyptus and orange. For a fresh summer blend, try 3 drops lemongrass + 2 drops lavender.
Side effects and safety tips
- Use extra dilution on skin. Lemongrass is high in citral, which can irritate or sensitize skin. Keep it under about 1% on skin, and always patch test.
- Don't swallow essential oils. Keep away from children and pets.
- Check with your doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding or managing a medical condition.
More on safe use: Essential oil dilution guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
Does lemongrass oil repel mosquitoes?
Some studies show lemongrass has repellent activity, but the effect is short-lived. For reliable protection, especially when traveling, use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
What's the difference between lemongrass and citronella?
They're closely related grasses. Lemongrass smells sweeter and more lemony; citronella is sharper and more often used in candles and outdoor products.
Is lemongrass oil safe for pets?
Lemongrass can be harmful to cats and dogs. Don't apply it to pets, and diffuse only where they can leave the room.
Can I use lemongrass oil on my face?
It's best kept off the face because citral can irritate sensitive facial skin.
Shop organic lemongrass oil
Our Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil is 100% pure, undiluted and certified organic, in a 10 ml glass bottle.