Citronella Clove Cedarwood Lavender Eucalyptus Peppermint Rosemary Lemongrass Rose Geranium
Other less widely available (or more expensive) mosquito-repelling essential oils include
Cajeput Thyme Catnip
Each oil has its own characteristics that blend differently with the citronella. Here are some blends to use as a starting point. If you don’t have a particular oil, feel free to substitute or adjust as you see fit. Each of the recipes has at least 1/3 citronella. For tips on creating your own custom blends, check out Creating Your Own Custom EO Blends
Simple and Spicy
A simple natural blend with the wonderfully sweet and spicy notes of the clove oil.
5 parts Citronella5 parts Lavender5 parts Clove
Bright and Energetic
Likewise a simple blend, but substituting the peppermint for the clove changes it into a bright, energetic, and sweet blend.
5 parts Citronella5 parts Lavender5 parts Peppermint
Deep and Green
A more complex blend with mostly “green” scents including wonderfully dark and smoky cedarwood.
10 parts Citronella10 parts Cedarwood5 parts Eucalyptus5 parts Rosemary
Sweet and Citrus
Just a little lemongrass added to the mix blends well with the citronella. The rosemary and cedarwood add complexity and a base note to the blend. Note: The lemongrass has a fair amount of the same constituents as the citronella oil, the amount of citronella is reduced.
5 parts Citronella5 parts Lemongrass5 parts Lavender5 parts Rosemary5 parts Cedarwood
Lightly Floral
Here just a little bit of Egyptian Rose Geranium brings out the floral qualities of the lavender and balances out the citronella.
5 parts Citronella5 parts Lavender5 parts Geranium5 parts Rosemary
Remember, these are just starting points for your own experimentation. Enjoy your citronella candles and the outdoors!
