Citronella oil is generally extracted using steam distillation process; using finely chopped fresh, dried or part-dried grass.

Citronella oil contains citronellol, geraniol, citronellic acid, borneol, nerol, camphene, citral, citronellal, dipentene and limonene.Ceylon type: Consists of geraniol (18-20%), limonene (9-11%), methyl isoeugenol (7-11%), citronellol (6-8%), and citronellal (5-15%).Java type: Citronellal (32-45%), geraniol (11-13%), geranyl acetate (3-8%), limonene (1-4%).

It is a colorless or light yellow liquid known for its characteristic woody, grassy or lemony odour. Vapours of this oil causes initial stimulation followed by depression of the central nervous system when inhaled. It is also flammable in nature.

Citronella Oil is the volatile oil obtained by Hydrodistillation. It has a rose like odor and bitter taste. The therapeutic properties of Citronella oil include antiseptic, deodorant, insecticide, parasitic, tonic and stimulant. This oil is an insect repellent.