The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that citronella has been used for more than 50 years as an insect and animal repellent. Citronella products are not believed to cause harm to the environment, humans or pets.
Use for Lice
Citronella oil is a volatile, liquid oil derived from the dried cultivated grasses of the citronella plant. The oil can be used to repel head lice and prevent an infestation if rubbed onto the scalp. However, the oil cannot drive out an existing infestation.
Effectiveness
During four months in 2003, a placebo-controlled double-blind study was conducted in four elementary schools; 95 children were tested with a placebo and 103 children were treated with citronella oil. Only 15.4 percent of the children treated with citronella contracted head lice while 55.1 percent of the placebo group contracted it.
How It Works
Citronella oil works to repel insects without harming or killing them. Citronella's distinctive odor makes it difficult for some pests to locate a host.
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